Many people struggle with alcohol without ever realizing it's a problem. It may be hard to see where the trouble begins or ends. The good news is there's a way out.
We're here to talk about alcohol addiction and the hope for recovery. With the right steps, anyone can reach a brighter, healthier tomorrow.
What is the Cycle of Alcohol Addiction?
The cycle of alcohol addiction can sneak up on you. It often starts with just a drink or two to relax or have fun with friends.
But then, that one drink turns into many. Eventually 'sometimes' becomes 'all the time’. And before you know it, the body starts to crave alcohol just to feel 'normal’.
That's when drinking stops being a choice. It's like being stuck on a merry-go-round that's spinning too fast. You want to get off, but you're not sure how to do so without falling.
Factors that Contribute to Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol addiction doesn’t typically come out of nowhere. Genetics can be a contributing factor. If your family has a history with alcohol, your risk can be higher.
Another contributing factor could be your environment, like if you're around drinking a lot or if it's part of your culture or social life.
In the end, it may even be your own personal experiences that lead you to alcohol. Factors like stress, trauma, or other challenges can make it easier for addiction to take root.
But understanding what feeds addiction can help you stop it from growing.
Path to Recovery from Alcohol Addiction
Recognize the Problem
The first step to getting better is seeing the problem for what it is.
You might think, "I don't drink that much," or "I can stop whenever I want". But if drinking is causing trouble in your life with friends, family, school, or work, it's time to take a closer look.
Recognizing the problem means you're brave enough to admit that alcohol is controlling more of your life than you want it to.
Seek Professional Help
Asking for help isn't easy. But there are many people ready to help you.
Doctors, counselors, and support groups are all there to listen and guide you. They've helped lots of people just like you. They know the map of the road you're on and can help you find the path to feeling better.
Detox & Withdrawal Management
Detox is like taking a large backpack off after a long hike. At first, your body might feel shaky without the weight it's used to, but it's the start of letting your body heal.
Doctors and other medical professionals can help you through withdrawal, which is the body's way of getting used to being without alcohol.
It can be tough, and sometimes it can feel worse before it feels better. But, it's a crucial step on the path to a healthier life.
Rehab & Therapy
Rehab is a place where you learn how to live without reaching for a drink. Therapists assist you with your emotions, helping you get stronger. They teach you new ways to deal with stress and sadness without alcohol.
You can also join group therapy as well. In these sessions, you can share your story and listen to others. It’s a safe place to learn, grow, and heal.
Build a Support Network
You need a group of friends and family to keep you standing tall during times of struggle. These are the people who cheer for you, help you up when you stumble, and celebrate your wins.
They are your support network. You can find them in places like support group meetings, in the community, or among friends and family who want the best for you.
With their help, you’re not alone on this journey.
Treatment for Mental Health Conditions and Alcohol Addiction
When someone has a mental health condition like depression or anxiety, alcohol might seem like a friend at first. It might feel like it washes away the worries or the blues.
But it's more like putting a band-aid on a broken arm. Alcohol can make mental health issues bigger and harder to deal with over time. It's like being stuck in a loop where drinking to feel better actually ends up making you feel worse.
When alcohol addiction and mental health problems mix, it's like fighting two battles at once.
Here at Houston Behavioral Healthcare Hospital, we only treat alcohol addiction when there is already a co-existing mental health condition. We do not treat alcohol addiction on its own. This allows us to treat the root of the problem and help you overcome these struggles at the same time.
Alcohol Addiction Recovery at Houston Behavioral Healthcare Hospital
Recovery is not always easy. There will be hard days. But each step forward is a step away from alcohol’s shadow.
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction and a co-existing mental health issue, the professional team at Houston Behavioral Healthcare Hospital can help you discover a life without alcohol addiction. Get in touch with us today!