Alcoholism Treatment in Tulsa, OK
Alcoholism treatment concerns the physical and psychological repercussions of chronic dependence on alcohol. Every year in the United States, more money is spent on treating alcoholism (combined with medical and legal expenses resulting from the use of alcohol) than cancer. Alcoholism treatment is vital in guiding alcohol dependent patients though the process of regaining their sobriety, entering into recovery, and changing their lives.
Alcoholism treatment not only serves the individual addict, but also works with, and counsels, the family unit which is important for the long-term outlook for the individual, the family and society. To find rehab and treatment options contact, Tulsa Drug Treatment Centers at (877) 804-1531.
What is Alcoholism?
"Alcohol dependence syndrome," or alcoholism, is considered a medical disease as it was first defined in the 19th century. Alcoholism was defined as "an intrinsic set of adverse effects on the systems of the human body caused by alcohol consumption."
The definition of alcoholism includes the following signs and symptoms:
- Craving - Compulsion or impulsive desire.
- Loss of control - Inability to curb drinking pattern or stop at will.
- Physical dependence--Withdrawal symptoms including nausea, sweating, shaking, and loss of appetite upon cessation of drinking.
- Tolerance - The alcoholic builds a resistance to drinking over time and needs increasing amounts to maintain the same effect.
Alcohol Abuse vs Addiction
Alcohol abuse and addiction (or dependency) are two distinct conditions. Alcohol abuse and dependence each qualify as an AUD (alcohol abuse disorder) according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV. The difference between abuse and dependency is that abuse presents with no physical signs or symptoms. There are signs noted in substance abuse that are psychological, mental, physiological, and behavioral in nature.
The symptoms of abuse include:
- Social problems: Lack of attendance in activities, poor performance at work, school, etc.
- Legal problems: DUI, DWI, Divorce, Eviction.
- Hazardous use: Drunk driving, Drinking while operating machinery, etc.
- Role impairment: Not fulfilling your duties as a parent, letting friends and family down, not "showing up".
Addiction separates itself in that there is a physical and psychological dependence on alcohol as well as physical signs of addiction and symptoms of withdrawal with abstinence. Abuse can quickly become addiction with continued bouts of drinking and the development of tolerance. Tolerance dictates that the alcoholic drink with more frequency, and in higher amounts, to get the same results.
Alcoholism Treatment
Detoxification is the first step of treatment. Drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities offer medically assisted detox, if needed, using medication to ease the physical effects of detox and withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, shakiness, sweating, and anxiety.
Benzodiazepine drugs such as chlordiazepoxide (Librium) and lorazepam (Ativan) may also be given in a medically supervised setting. Benzodiazepine drugs are central nervous system depressants that have a sedative/hypnotic effect and help to ease withdrawal symptoms and make the patient more comfortable.
Alcohol withdrawal is a symptomatic state experienced during abstinence. Alcohol withdrawal produces a wide range of physical, psychological, and emotional symptoms. The extent of the effects vary from mild to severe, and can be critical. Symptoms of withdrawal usually subside within a five day period.
Alcoholism treatment consists of programs designed for persons specifically addicted to alcohol. Alcohol rehab usually consists of medical care, vitamin therapy, nutrition, an exercise regimen, individual and group counseling, family counseling sessions, relapse prevention, education, aftercare services, and other forms of customized treatment if needed.
If you, or someone you know, is struggling with alcohol abuse or addiction and looking for treatment options and various facilities, please call Tulsa Drug Treatment Centers at (877) 804-1531.