Recreational drinking should not be a cause for concern, but when the drinking gets out of control problems can occur for both the drinker and his friends and family. Family members should be concerned for their loved one if his drinking becomes too frequent, increases in amounts, and he seems to have a greater tolerance for it, his behavior could be abusive. If he does not want to stop drinking because he will start to have withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, headache, and shaking this might indicate that he is dependent upon alcohol. Such a physical dependence coupled with a psychological need for the ritual of drinking alcohol means that an alcohol rehab program should be found to address the issue and help the alcoholic to become sober.
There are many types of alcohol rehab programs available, and choosing the one to best serve the alcoholic will depend upon his doctor's recommendations, level of addiction, and personal preferences. A study known as the COMBINE trial found that one combination therapy regime seemed to greatly increase the chances of recovery in those enrolled. Some medications such as the naltrexone used in the study are not recommended for those with an opiate dependency. An interaction between the two drugs can occur. The attending physician in the alcohol rehab program will be able to address any questions or concerns the patient might have about treatment options.
The best way to get the most out of an alcohol rehab program is to choose the one that has several characteristics of successful facilities. These include: a strong support network, ongoing care, medical care, professional intervention, and support for the family. Depending upon the level of abuse, the problem drinker might have to undergo a week long detoxification. This is a period in which he stops drinking cold turkey to allow the body to rid itself of its physical dependence on alcohol. Detoxification symptoms of withdrawal, but the alcoholic will not be able to achieve sobriety by giving into drinking. There are drugs available through a physician which can alleviate these symptoms so that the alcoholic can last the week of detox without drinking. should be done under medical supervision since the effects of withdrawal can lead a person to begin drinking again. Alcohol will temporarily ease the
Alcoholism and alcohol abuse are common problems affecting about 7.8% of Americans over the age of 12, but help is available at any of the nation-wide alcohol rehab programs. The program chosen should appeal to the patient's personal preferences, medical and psychological needs. Support for and from his family is also critical in preventingrelapse and achieving recovery. Carefully choosing the right alcohol rehab program is the first step to getting the best results.