This page has been reviewed by Lester Morse, Director of Rehabs UK.
Alcoholism invariably involves more than just consuming alcohol. While someone can appear to function normally, if their life is being adversely affected and they're unable to reduce or stop drinking on their own, it’s time to address the issue and seek help.
It can be challenging to approach someone who suffers from alcohol addiction, so it’s worth speaking to one of our Treatment Advisors for tips on alcohol intervention.
Whether consuming alcohol to cope with stress or self-medicating to mask mental health problems or trauma, residential rehab provides the opportunity to address the root of the pain that’s encouraging the individual to drink.
An alcohol clinic setting boasts qualified and approachable staff trained to deal with alcohol addiction. From medical monitoring throughout the detox and withdrawal process to consistent, round-the-clock care, rehab allows space away from everyday life and creates an environment that focuses on recovery. Invariably, offering a two-pronged approach to treatment, rehab deals with both the physical aspect of addiction and the mindset towards alcohol.
The prospect of entering a rehab centre can be intimidating. However, if an individual is suffering from alcohol use disorder, getting help is crucial as committing to treatment is a progressive step towards improving their life.
Individual therapy and group therapy in a residential rehab setting provide a safe space for the person involved to take an honest look at themselves, their addiction, and its effects on their behaviour and mental health. Although this may be uncomfortable at times, therapy provides a powerful way to assist the healing process.
Rehab provides the opportunity to tackle the problem holistically and develop coping mechanisms to safeguard sobriety. The rehabilitation environment removes the individual involved from their ordinary existence and allows them to focus on recovery.
Alcohol is addictive primarily due to its powerful effects on the brain’s reward system. When consumed, alcohol increases the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This creates feelings of euphoria and relaxation, reinforcing the desire to drink.
Over time, the brain begins to associate alcohol consumption with positive feelings, making it difficult to resist the urge to drink. Additionally, alcohol alters the balance of neurotransmitters like GABA and glutamate, leading to calming effects and reducing anxiety. However, with repeated use, the brain adapts by becoming less sensitive to alcohol, requiring more of it to achieve the same effects. This is known as tolerance.
As tolerance builds, physical dependence can develop, where the brain relies on alcohol to function normally, making quitting difficult due to withdrawal symptoms.
Alcohol consumption can cause a variety of health conditions such as kidney damage, high blood pressure, headaches/ migraines and stomach problems.
If you are concerned about a loved one, speak to one of our fully trained Treatment Advisors today for advice and support.
