If you are unable to control your drinking or it interferes with your life, you may be suffering from Alcohol Addiction. This condition is known as AUD (alcohol use disorder). Alcohol addiction can have serious effects on both your mental and physical health. It can cause family and job problems, as well as lead to legal issues such as drunk driving or drunk and disorderly conduct. Many people with AUD also suffer from depression, anxiety and other mental illness. Alcohol can also cause serious medical problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease and cirrhosis of the liver.
Getting help for alcohol addiction can be difficult. There are many treatment options available, including behavioral therapy and medications. The first step is recognizing that you have a problem. Seek professional help if you have any of the following symptoms:
Drinking more often or for longer than you intend. Having withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking, such as shakiness, restlessness, trouble sleeping, nausea, sweating or a racing heart. Feeling irritable or cranky when you don’t drink. Trying to hide your drinking or having a need to drink in secret. Having blackouts or memory lapses after you have been drinking. Experiencing repeated problems at work, school or in your relationships because of your drinking. Having dangerous sexual encounters while drinking. Getting into situations that are physically dangerous, such as driving while drunk or having unsafe sex. Giving up other activities that you once enjoyed, just to drink. Having a family history of alcohol abuse.
Heavy drinking can cause a variety of health problems, such as:
Damage to the brain and nerves (confusion, speech impairment, movement problems and memory loss). Liver problems, including alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis. Damage to the heart, such as tachycardia and arrhythmia. A weakened immune system, which increases the risk of infection and illness, especially pneumonia and tuberculosis.
Taking action to break the cycle of drinking is important for your health and well-being. Fortunately, there is hope for recovery from alcohol addiction. With support and treatment, you can regain control over your drinking and improve your quality of life. It is important to seek help early in your struggle with alcohol addiction, so that you can take steps to stop drinking before it takes control of your life. You can get help and find quality alcohol addiction treatment services at a location near you by visiting our Alcohol Treatment Locator. To learn more about treatment options, contact us today. We can refer you to a local provider who can provide counseling and medication, and help you overcome your alcohol addiction. If you are concerned about a loved one, please refer them to our Alcohol Treatment Locator as well. They can access their insurance and make a referral to an alcohol rehab center or detox program. Alcohol addiction is a complex and chronic disease, but it can be treated with the right support system and professional help. You can recover from alcohol addiction, even if you’ve tried to quit before and failed.
