- Increasing isolation from family and friends
- Spending less time engaging in activities once enjoyed
- Making excuses to drink alcohol, or drinking secretly
Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol is one of the most widely abused and addictive substances globally, yet its inherent risks are frequently underestimated. In most parts of the world, alcohol is legal and readily available. It is also normalised as an integral part of being social, and various aspects of popular culture like music or film contribute to its promise of coolness and even sophistication. While many people turn to drinking to cope with conditions like anxiety and depression, not everyone realises that using alcohol as a quick fix may exacerbate mental health issues in the long run. Moreover and most importantly, we must never forget that alcohol is an addictive substance, and alcohol abuse should be taken very seriously.
The damage it does
Alcohol Abuse, formally recognised as Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), can harm both your physical and mental health. However, its repercussions extend beyond individual health, wielding its destructive power to permeate your relationships, careers, and/or financial stability. Although quitting alcohol can be challenging and may, if undertaken without appropriate assistance, pose life-threatening risks when pursued alone at home, it is essential to acknowledge that alcohol addiction is responsive to treatment, and the challenges linked to alcohol dependence can be best overcome through seeking professional support.
Do I need treatment for alcohol abuse?
In most cases, the occasional consumption of a glass of wine or two may not be a cause for concern. However, to believe that alcoholism only becomes a threat when it progresses to the stage of physical addiction is a common and dangerous misconception. Regular drinking can lead not only to the development of a physical tolerance to alcohol but also to a mental dependency, and you may feel you are losing control over your alcohol consumption. Consequently, identifying alcohol addiction often hinges on assessing your relationship with alcohol, its impact on your social and professional responsibilities, and its influence on your personal environment.
The most common signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse include:
Social changes
Risky behaviours
- Prioritising drinking over other obligations and responsibilities
- Ignoring the impact on others
- Consuming alcohol at perilous times, such as before or while driving
- Taking risks that may lead to legal issues
Loss of control
- Inability to drink less
- Desire to reduce alcohol intake but unsuccessful attempts to do so
Greater need for alcohol
- Increased tolerance, requiring more alcohol for desired effects
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms (e.g. nausea, sweating and shaking) when not drinking, or consuming alcohol to avoid these symptoms
Other Symptoms, Emotional or Physical
- Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, paranoia
- Memory problems
- Slurred speech, red eyes, reddened skin
If you believe that any of the aforementioned signs may apply to you, if your family is expressing concern about your alcohol consumption, or if you simply have a general impression that you drink “too much,” please do not hesitate to contact us to seek guidance.
Yes, I drink – but I don’t have a problem!
We understand that denial is common and that you may not readily acknowledge a drinking problem. However, take heed of the concerns expressed by your family, friends, or co-workers, who are urging you to evaluate your drinking habits or seek help. A timely intervention from those close to you can be instrumental in fostering recognition and acceptance of your need for professional help.
If you are concerned about someone’s excessive drinking, we encourage you to reach out to a professional experienced in alcohol treatment to effectively approach the individual.
NEOVIVA’s approach to alcohol abuse treatment
While the most important initial step is allowing yourself to accept that you have a problem, transitioning from both physical and mental dependency to a healthy lifestyle is a significant challenge, demanding careful attention to each phase of the rehabilitation process. At NEOVIVA, we define four stages in addiction recovery treatment:
1. Assessment
Conducting a thorough addiction assessment is a vital aspect of the rehabilitation process. Individuals struggling with addictions often exhibit a high degree of secrecy, often fueled by fears of legal consequences and societal and familial judgment. Establishing trust is integral to the assessment process. Additionally, substance abuse is likely linked to an underlying mental health disorder. Given this close connection, it is imperative to identify and address any co-occurring mental health disorders simultaneously with the addiction.
2. Supervised alcohol detox
Typically, the initial phase involves alcohol detoxification in one of our partner clinics nearby – a process whose necessity will be evaluated during your comprehensive assessment with our medical team before starting treatment at NEOVIVA. This stage may be challenging as your body adjusts to the absence of alcohol, and readjusts to functioning without its constant presence. However, with our caring medical team by your side, you receive continuous support, ensuring a positive experience throughout the journey.
3. Treatment
After detoxification, you will move on to your treatment programme at NEOVIVA with daily group therapy, psychoeducation,individual counselling and psychotherapy, and creative expression. Additionally, our comprehensive approach integrates mindfulness training through educational groups on addiction and recovery, coupled with body-focused methods for nervous system regulation. Supported by a comprehensive medical and physical assessment, your treatment will be augmented by state-of-the-art methods, such as rTMS, designed to alleviate cravings and enhance mood.
4. Continuing Care
As we strongly believe in the significance of ongoing support, we encourage further progress upon returning home by providing a comprehensive Continuing Care programme after you complete your treatment at NEOVIVA.
Please do not hesitate reach out at any time to learn more about NEOVIVA’s approach to alcohol treatment.