Alcohol addiction is a rising problem during this pandemic, and it’s about time we take action.
The pandemic has been going on for a while now, but alcohol addiction has been on the rise. It’s about time we do something to stop this before it becomes out of control.
Discussing Alcohol addiction is important because it can be a leading cause of liver disease and cancer, and can have a significant impact on family life, especially children.
What is Alcohol Addiction (Alcoholism)?
Alcohol addiction, or alcoholism, is a chronic disease that affects millions of people around the world. This condition has many components, including the following
– Recurrent alcohol use despite being aware of its potential harms.
– Inability to limit alcohol intake.
– Craving or a strong desire to use alcohol.
– Persistent alcohol use despite being aware of persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is caused by alcohol.
Alcohol addiction also has a huge impact on the individual’s social life, including:
– Relationship problems.
– Work or school problems.
– Issues with attention and memory.
– Legal, financial, and property problems.
Alcohol dependence is frequently associated with other problems, including anxiety and depression. People with an alcohol addiction can typically have issues with their weight, or blood sugar levels. This can lead to inflammation that can trigger or worsen liver damage. There are also many other problems associated with alcohol addiction that are not apparent at first glance, and the more frequently the individual drinks, the more likely they are to develop withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop.
What are the Dangers of Drinking too Much?
Many people enjoy drinking alcohol, and it is relatively safe in moderation. However, heavy drinking is becoming more and more common, and there are many reasons why we should take action against it.
First of all, heavy drinking has a major effect on the body. Many people become intoxicated when they drink alcohol, but this isn’t the only danger. Consuming too much alcohol can lead to several problems, including:
• Liver damage
• Damaged relationships
• Deaths from alcohol poisoning
• Depression and anxiety
• Inability to hold down a job or complete everyday responsibilities
While not everyone goes on to develop an alcohol dependence, those who abuse alcohol frequently are more likely to develop alcoholism.
Safety Guidelines for Withdrawing from Alcohol
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction, the first step is to detox from alcohol. Detoxing from alcohol is a natural process that allows the body to recover from physical dependence on alcohol. While detoxing from alcohol, it’s important to follow a safety plan that will reduce the dangers associated with withdrawal symptoms.
If you have been drinking for a long time, you will most likely experience heavy withdrawal symptoms. It is best to begin a detoxification plan as soon as possible after you decide to stop drinking.
Detoxing from alcohol can be a difficult process, so it’s important you speak to a medical professional before deciding to do it.
There are many detox methods, including medical detox programmes, which can be done via a GP, or via a residential detox programme. In the UK, another option is a home detox programme, which is medically assisted and is slightly cheaper than residential programmes.
If you are severely alcohol dependent, a medical detox is most likely the only way you can withdraw from alcohol safely.
Via a GP
If you are considering detoxing from alcohol, the first step is to contact a general practitioner. They can prescribe medications that can help with withdrawal symptoms and cravings. This will make it easier to withdraw without being under pressure from withdrawal symptoms.
A GP may prescribe detox medication (typically benzodiazepines), or medication that help you to stop craving alcohol such as:
• Buprenorphine (Suboxone)
• Naltrexone (Vivitrol)
Via a Home Detox Service
If you don’t want to go through a medical detox for addiction to alcohol, it’s possible to do a home detox.
This option is cheaper than rehab, but someone will have to stay with you during the medical detox to ensure your safety.
It is important to follow the directions provided for a home detox service.
Via an Inpatient Detox Facility
This is an option for detoxing from alcohol if you can’t go through with the home method or feel like additional support is required. This option is often used by people who are considered high risk. This is because it helps to monitor them closely, make sure they are not drinking, and treat any issues that they may have during detox. Some of the ways that a detox facility can help with withdrawal include the following:
• The facility will monitor a person’s health during the process
• You will have access to medical professionals
• They can provide additional medication to help deal with feelings of anxiety or depression that can result from quitting alcohol. This may be through antidepressant medication or counseling.
How to Avoid an Alcohol Relapse
Even if a person has been sober for a long time, they may still occasionally fall back into the cycle of drinking. Attending support groups is one way to stay committed to abstinence.
One of the best ways to do this is by attending Alcoholics Anonymous or other support group like SMART recovery. These groups help people in recovery support each other. If you feel like a relapse is occurring, your peers can support and lift you during difficult times.
The key to staying sober is having a support network, whether that’s family, friends or peers, staying connected with others is vital to recovery success.
