Alcohol abuse and addiction is a common problem facing millions of people in the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, and several other countries throughout the world. Billions of dollars have been spent on researching the most effective treatments for alcohol addiction; this has allowed professionals in the field to discover the best methods for treating alcoholism and furthermore come to a conclusion that it is overall highly treatable.
There are several types of treatment for an alcohol addiction; the most popular being rehabilitation programmes. Without breaking an addiction, an addict may develop worse problems that can be potentially fatal. Those affected by alcoholism, be it family members, friends, or the addict themselves may not know where to begin when deciding to get treatment.
Alcoholism affects 4% of the population in England aged 16-65 years old; this is approximately 1.1 million people.
3 Most Common Types of Rehabilitation Programmes
Alcohol Detoxification
An addict may begin treatment with an alcohol detox; this may take place at the rehab or a partner hospital. The detox will help the addict with the physical withdrawal symptoms. After the detox he or she will likely move onto an inpatient programme.
Inpatient Centre
Inpatient centre’s being the most popular, offer various types of therapy, counseling, and group sessions that help addicts maintain sobriety while building a strong base for recovery.
Outpatient Centre
An outpatient rehab also offers therapy and other session; however, the individual often works the programme around his or her own schedule and goes home at the end of the day.
During Treatment at an Inpatient Centre
Each rehabilitation centre is different in various ways. For example, some are public and some private, some are gender or religious specific and others may only treat one specific addiction. However, there are some components that most treatment programmes will consist of. These may include a full diagnostic evaluation during intake. This may take quite a few hours to complete, but will allow the centres staff to develop a thorough treatment plan that will address any needs and issues necessary to maintain sobriety. Additionally, any current physical or mental issues that are occurring because of the addiction to alcohol can be given medical attention during the persons stay. Once the intake process is complete, the individual can begin treatment which will take place each day. Most rehabilitation centres offer a comprehensive aftercare programme/plan for the individual to implement once they have left.
Length of Stay
A treatment programme at an inpatient rehabilitation centre can last from 28 days to 3 months, even up to a year, or longer. How long a person decides to stay will depend upon the severity of their alcohol addiction, as well as work, family, and financial responsibilities. Many rehabilitation centres will offer 28-90 day programmes that are effective. In certain situations, a person may require further treatment at a long term centre, outpatient centre, or sober living home.
After Treatment
Once the treatment programme is completed, although the individual may no longer consume alcohol, he or she must be prepared to face some challenges; including daily stressors, triggers, and temptations. To help make these challenges easier to deal with, aftercare programmes can be a huge benefit. These programmes may include face to face or phone contact with a therapist or counselor at the centre, e-mail updates, group meetings, follow up medical care, etc.
In 2007, 33% of men and 16% of women (24% of adults) in the United Kingdom were classified as hazardous drinkers. This includes 6% of men and 2% of women estimated to be harmful drinkers, the most serious form of hazardous drinking, which means that damage to health is likely.
Rehabilitation Saves Lives
Alcoholism affects an individual physically, psychologically, and socially, as well as, family and friends who suffer along with the addict. Numerous studies, as well as proven results from rehabilitation centres throughout the world have shown that treatment is effective; allowing those with an addiction to alcohol to become sober and ultimately reclaim their life. The benefits of becoming sober and getting treatment at a rehab far out-weigh the ups and downs that will take place if the addict does not quit.
Reaching Out
One of the most difficult things that an alcoholic may face is the inability or unwillingness to reach out and admit that they have a problem. In these instances, family and friends can help through a supportive intervention, which may help the person make the right decision by entering treatment. A doctor, therapist, or rehabilitation centre may be able to help with this.
