Treating Alcohol Use Disorder: Whole-Patient Approach and Evidence-Based Strategies

Treating Alcohol Use Disorder: Whole-Patient Approach and Evidence-Based Strategies

how to help someone struggling with alcohol addiction

Finding the right way to approach someone you think may have an alcohol use disorder can be tough. Before you speak with them, try putting yourself in their shoes. The most important thing is to let them know that you care and that you’ll be there when they need your support. It’s possible that GLP-1s may be useful for a range of substance use disorders, including opioid use disorder and nicotine use disorder, Varisco says. The medication may even be helpful in treating sex disorders and eating disorders, Dr. Sarhan says. GLP-1 receptor agonists are already being used to treat alcohol use disorder in some circumstances, Dr. Sarhan says, noting that this is a growing trend in addiction disorder medicine.

how to help someone struggling with alcohol addiction

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Provide Drug & Alcohol Rehab Coverage?

A multi-year study of people with substance use disorder showed that only about a third of recovering individuals who had been sober for less than a year remained abstinent. Chances are good that you know someone who’s recovering from substance use disorder (SUD) and could benefit from your support. Maybe they’re a close family member or friend, or maybe it’s someone you don’t know as well. While you can’t shelter your loved one from situations where alcohol is Sober living home present, you can avoid drinking with or around the person.

How to Help Someone with Alcoholism

It’s a safe place to talk about problems, celebrate wins, and build a community of understanding. It’s important to distinguish between recreational use and addiction. Someone might try a drug occasionally without becoming addicted. But if your life starts to focus on getting and using that drug, it’s probably an addiction.

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I bring acompassionate and empathetic approach to my role, creating a safe space for participants to heal and grow. Alongside my work as a group facilitator, I am a National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer, sharing my love for fitness and wellness as an integral part of recovery. As a registered drug and alcohol technician, I am committed to providing the highest quality care and staying informed about the latest advancements in addiction treatment. I am honored to be part of the Anchored Tides Recovery team, empowering individuals to embrace sobriety, rebuild their lives, and create a future filled with hope and purpose. Anchored Tides Recovery’s Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides a flexible and supportive treatment option for women seeking recovery from addiction and mental health issues. Our IOP combines evidence-based therapies, group counseling, and individualized care plans tailored to each woman’s unique needs.

how to help someone struggling with alcohol addiction

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  • Your loved one’s primary care doctor or GP can evaluate their drinking patterns, assess their overall health and any co-occurring disorders, and provide treatment referrals.
  • While I know I have to be in charge of myself and my life, I also know that your support and encouragement can make all the difference in the world.
  • This article delves into the dynamics of this relationship, exploring its prevalence, underlying causes, and potential treatment options.
  • Dr. Sanchez received her bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Los Angeles, and her medical degree from Michigan State University College of Human Medicine.
  • An addiction professional will think about what's going on in your loved one's life, suggest the best approach, and guide you in what type of treatment and follow-up plan is likely to work best.

Standard inpatient rehabilitation programs range from $6,000 to $20,000 for a 30-day stay, while outpatient treatment costs between $1,400 and $10,000, depending on the provider and duration. Rebuilding relationships, securing stable employment, and adopting healthier lifestyles signify effective recovery. A combination of therapy, medication, and peer support has been proven to enhance long-term success by addressing both psychological and social factors in addiction recovery. Holistic therapies support alcohol addiction recovery by addressing the mind-body connection, promoting stress management, and improving overall well-being. Sometimes, it’s hard to understand the technical terms about my diagnosis or condition, and to know what treatments are available to manage my concerns safely and effectively.

how to help someone struggling with alcohol addiction how to help someone struggling with alcohol addiction

About half the people who complete alcohol abuse treatment for the first time stay alcohol-free, while the other half relapse and return to drinking at some point. It’s common for people to require treatment more than once to finally achieve sobriety. That means you’ll need plenty of patience when supporting your loved support for alcoholics one’s recovery. Factors such as inpatient or outpatient care, therapy options, and support systems should be considered to ensure the best chance of recovery. Yes, alcohol addiction treatment is covered by insurance, including private insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare.

  • Explore the connection between sleep and addiction, and how better sleep can support recovery.
  • Borderline personality disorder (BPD) does not have a single identified cause; rather, it arises from a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors.
  • Reinforce a non-confrontational tone throughout the conversation.
  • Addiction treatment options include detox, counselling and rehab.
  • The medication may even be helpful in treating sex disorders and eating disorders, Dr. Sarhan says.

Addiction manifests in different ways, but common signs include changes in behavior, mood swings, neglecting responsibilities, and secrecy. Recognizing these signs can help you determine when it’s time to offer support. Helping someone with alcoholism is a challenging yet deeply impactful journey that requires patience, empathy, and a commitment to fostering a supportive environment.

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