Treating Alcoholism

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

23 Jan 2008 06:50 PM

Let me say this up front: success in treating alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence is strongly linked to admitting that there is a problem and wanting to stop drinking. If you don't want to stop drinking, all the treatments in the world aren't going to do much good.

Most alcoholics need to stop drinking completely. Initially, treatment will focus on stopping drinking and relieving symptoms of withdrawal. Some people can stop drinking on their own. Some can't. Talk to your doctor -- you may need anti-anxiety and/or anti-seizure medications to help you get through the withdrawal. Severe withdrawal symptoms like uncontrolled shaking, seizures, or hallucinations may mean that you need to be admitted to a treatment center or hospital during detoxification.

Alcohol abuse can leave your body low in certain vitamins and minerals -- especially vitamin B1. You may need to take thiamine supplements. You may also have to worry about dehydration and electrolyte levels.

After you stop drinking, the battle isn't over. During recovery, you should think about support and education. Individual counseling and/or groups like Alcoholics Anonymous can help you stay sober. Staying sober is a life-long process. Your doctor may prescribe medications to help you stay sober during recovery:

• Disulfiram slows the pleasurable effects of drinking and makes you feel nauseous when you drink.
• Naltrexone is a monthly shot that interferes with the pleasurable effects of drinking.
• Acamprosate can reduce a person's craving for alcohol.
• Topiramate is an anti-seizure medication that may be able to help treat alcohol dependence.

Don't give up if you have a relapse and start drinking again. It can be discouraging, and you may feel guilty. Avoid it if you possibly can, but if you can't -- don't take a relapse as a sign that you should give up. Stick with your treatment. Stick with the counseling.

If you experience repeated relapses or severe withdrawal symptoms, talk to your doctor. You may need to enter a treatment facility to help you get through the withdrawal period and learn how to stay sober.

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Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

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