Alcohol is one of the most commonly used substances and excessive use can lead to dependence and addiction which can impact every aspect of life. Sunrise Rehab and Recovery offers alcohol detoxification and rehabilitation services designed to promote abstinence and healthier living.
The Physical and Emotional Impact of Alcoholism
Frequent use of alcohol can have an enormous impact on a person. Alcohol dependence can change how the brain works, making an individual crave alcohol to feel normal. When a person drinks alcohol, it reduces the chemicals in their brain that naturally help them feel happy, relaxed, and deal with stress. Alcoholism can also cause other physical effects, like high blood pressure and liver damage.
Individuals with co-occurring disorders (abusing alcohol while also suffering from PTSD or another mental health condition, for instance) often find that they only become more depressed or anxious as their alcoholism worsens. This increase in mental health symptoms often leads to more drinking, and the cycle deepens. Seeking treatment for co-occurring alcoholism and mental health disorders is imperative to improve functioning regain control over one’s life.
Signs of Alcoholism
For many people, it can be challenging to realize that they have a problem with alcohol. Drinking is often a big part of socializing with family, friends and co-workers. Therefore, drinking often becomes an essential part of social life. At a certain point, drinking can become a serious issue.
Experiencing 1 or more of the following symptoms means a person likely suffers from alcoholism and needs rehab:
- Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from drinking
- Having a strong, undeniable urge to drink
- Having problems in family life, personal relationships, or work performance due to drinking
- Giving up things a person used to enjoy in order to drink instead
- Drinking to deal with depression or anxiety
- Needing to drink more and more in order to feel the effects of the alcohol
- Trying to drink less or stop altogether but being unable to do so
- Having withdrawal symptoms, like shaking, sweating, nausea, or vomiting, when stopping drinking
