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Most people with alcohol problems do not decide to make a big change out of the blue or transform their drinking habits overnight. Even after admitting you have a drinking problem, you may make excuses and drag your feet. It’s important to acknowledge your ambivalence about stopping drinking. If you’re not sure if you’re ready to change or you’re struggling with the decision, it can help to think about the costs and benefits of each choice. Are you ready to quit drinking or cut down to healthier levels? These tips can help you get started on the road to recovery.
What is the hardest point of sobriety?
For many people, the first few weeks of sobriety are the hardest. You may have withdrawal symptoms that are physically and emotionally uncomfortable. Cravings are also common during this time, which can tempt you to relapse. Treatment can help you get through this challenging period.
Part of recovering from alcohol use disorder is changing old behaviors and routines. Some people may not provide the support you need to reach your goals. If you use this form of naltrexone, a healthcare professional will inject the medication once a month.
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Treatment professionals provide around-the-clock care and will prepare you for life after rehab. This may include information on how to overcome triggers, the importance of sobriety maintenance programs and what to do in the event of a relapse. With so many effects on the body, the usual first step in treating alcoholism is detox—or getting alcohol out of your system.
The alcohol-aversive effects of Antabuse were first recorded in the 1930s. Workers in the vulcanized rubber industry who were exposed to tetraethylthiuram disulfide became ill after drinking alcohol. People with alcohol use disorders drink 5 Tips to Consider When Choosing a Sober Living House to excess, endangering both themselves and others. The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.
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When you’re struggling with an alcohol use disorder (AUD), you may feel as though there’s no end in sight, but you don’t have to suffer alone. There are many treatment options available today that will help you recover from alcoholism and get back to living a healthy and fulfilling life. Moderate alcohol consumption does not generally cause any psychological or physical harm. However, if someone who enjoys social drinking significantly increases their consumption or regularly consumes more than the recommended quantity, AUD may eventually develop. Your health care provider or mental health provider will ask additional questions based on your responses, symptoms and needs.
- Cardiovascular disease
Binge drinking can lead to blood clots, which can lead to heart attacks, stroke, cardiomyopathy (a potentially deadly condition where the heart muscle weakens and fails) and heart rhythm abnormalities. - Additionally, persons who begin smoking early are more likely to develop problems with alcohol.
Once you’ve made the decision to change, the next step is establishing clear drinking goals. The more specific, realistic, and clear your goals, the better. Psychologists can also provide referrals to self-help groups. Even after formal treatment ends, many people seek additional support through continued involvement in such groups.