The decision to get sober is the right decision to lead to a successful recovery from alcoholism story. Several online programs offer a ‘How to Get over Alcoholism’ guide. However, their effectiveness and validity are questionable as getting over an addiction requires discipline, dedication, counseling, and support.
Can I get Sober without Going to Alcohol rehab?
The answer to this question is no. Alcoholism is a disease characterized by a craving for alcohol. It is a progressive disease that, if left untreated, can lead to death. The only way to get sober is by going to an alcohol rehab center. The withdrawal phase of alcoholism is brutal. It is crucial that you get medical support during this phase. You will be at high risk of relapse if you don’t get medical help. The only way to get over alcoholism is by going to an alcohol rehab center. The signs of alcoholism vary from one person to another. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of alcoholism to know if you are an alcoholic.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Alcoholism?
The signs and symptoms of alcoholism vary from one person to another. However, one common sign can be used to distinguish between the two; this is the craving for alcohol. If someone craves alcohol all the time, they are likely an alcoholic. Other symptoms include:
- Physical and psychological dependence
- Loss of control over the amount consumed
- Continuous use despite the negative consequences
- Frequent blackouts
- Development of tolerance
- Inability to stop drinking once started
Physical dependence is of particular concern because the person requires alcohol to function normally. This is a potentially dangerous sign because if the person suddenly stops drinking, they will suffer severe withdrawal symptoms. Psychological dependence occurs when one needs alcohol to relax and unwind. It also means that the person has little control over how much they are drinking, and when they stop, the negative consequences will start to show up.
The dangers of Alcoholism
Alcoholism is an illness that can prove fatal if not treated immediately. The most common danger of alcoholism include:
- Death due to accidents which are often caused by drunk driving or binge drinking
- Liver diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis
- Brain damage, can cause issues with memory and speech
- Pancreatitis is a disease that causes severe abdominal pain and swelling due to inflammation of the pancreas
- Infections such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and PCP
- Gastritis can cause severe abdominal pain and scarring of the stomach lining
- Falling or stumbling due to the person being under the influence of alcohol. This can cause fractures and head injuries
- Infections such as HIV/AIDS due to sharing of needles during intravenous drug use
- Violence and suicide attempts due to alcohol withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and depression
- The mental dangers of alcoholism. These are depression, mania, and anxiety
Benefits of an Alcohol Rehab Center
A well-established alcohol rehab center can help you or your loved one overcome the dangerous effects of alcoholism. There are several benefits that you can get from an alcohol rehab center. The primary benefit of an alcohol rehab center is that it helps you stop drinking. Alcoholism is a chronic disease that can be treated and managed but cannot be cured.
The treatment usually involves a combination of medications and therapy sessions to help the user recover from addiction and learn how to stay sober for life. An alcohol rehab center provides these services in a safe environment with qualified professionals who have experience treating alcoholism. An alcohol rehab center also helps minimize the physical symptoms that may result from prolonged use of alcohol, such as heart conditions, liver damage, brain damage, or pancreatitis.
It also alleviates mental symptoms such as depression, anxiety, mood swings, and suicidal tendencies caused by heavy drinking over an extended period. An alcohol rehab center also helps the user to have a better understanding of why they started drinking and how to cope with the mental and emotional issues that led to alcohol abuse in the first place. This helps alcoholics learn how to identify situations that may trigger their desire to drink again.
It also teaches you to deal with stressful situations without resorting to alcohol. An alcohol rehab center also helps addicts learn coping skills that will help them deal with stress, anxiety, depression, and other issues on their own without having to rely on drugs or alcohol. It also gives you the opportunity for social interaction with other people struggling with alcoholism, which can be extremely valuable in helping you stay sober after treatment. For more information on alcoholism, when and where to get help, contact us on 833-610-1174. Our counselors are ready and willing to guide you or your loved one through the steps of recovery.