Alcohol Problem

What Is An Alcohol Problem?

Most people developing an alcohol problem are either in denial of the problem or resistant to getting any help. It seems they are the last to know the alcohol problem exists all the while family members and friends experience the consequences associated with problem drinking.

An alcohol problem does not necessarily mean the person is suffering from alcoholism. There are distinct difference between alcohol abuse and alcoholism. It is important to distinguish between the two as it might determine the type of care they will require.

Alcohol abuse is defined as the ability to still manage their alcohol intake, but is accompanied by consequences. This individual has not yet developed a tolerance or physical addiction. Alcoholism on the other hand is when the person has lost the ability to control their drinking, develops a dependency on alcohol (physically and mentally), experiences tolerance and cravings for more alcohol and is obsessed with the thought of alcohol. This type of alcohol problem is best treated in an inpatient alcohol treatment center. For expert treatment of your alcohol problem just call 1-800-884-1727 for help. We will provide you with an evaluation for free.

What are the signs of an alcoholic?

Many people wonder when drinking alcohol becomes an alcohol problem that requires alcohol rehab.  The following should help shed some light on this subject:

• A healthy man under the age of 65 should consume no more than two drinks a day, or 14 drinks a week. 
• For a healthy woman under the age of 65, those numbers should be no more than one drink per day, 7 total drinks per week.

A simple test to identify an alcohol problem is to observe drinking habits.  Feeling you should cut back or receiving criticism of your drinking are indications there could be an alcohol problem.  Other indicators of alcohol problems include drinking in the morning and having feelings of guilt or embarrassment about drinking.

There are four characteristics of progressing symptoms of the most serious alcohol problems - those which indicate the likely presence of alcoholism or alcohol dependence. Whereas alcohol abuse is an alcohol problem characterized as drinking too much alcohol, but having the ability to put limits on alcohol intake. 

The NIAAA offers these tips to help avoid problems with alcohol abuse:

• Avoid underage drinking.  Besides being illegal, research shows that those that start drinking at an early age are more likely to develop alcohol problems and alcoholism.
• As an adult, drink moderately.  Abide by the recommended amount of alcohol for your age and gender.  If there is a history of alcohol problems in your family, reduce alcohol intake to no more than one drink a day for women and no more than two drinks a day for men.  Some people, such as pregnant women, or those recovering from alcohol, should not drink at all.
• Talk to your doctor.  Discuss your concerns with your doctor, nurse or other healthcare provider.  These professionals can help you find organizations that will help you deal with and avoid alcohol problems.

If you believe you have an alcohol problem, such as dependence or abuse, call Lakeview Health Systems at 1-800-884-1727. All calls are toll-free and completely confidential.

Inpatient Treatment for alcoholism

Inpatient alcohol treatment is capable of safely treating the medical, emotional and spiritual components affected by the alcohol problem. The medical aspects of early recovery are addressed in detox where all withdrawal symptoms are treated, as well as, any medical problems resulting from the alcohol problem. This phase of treatment also includes a psychiatric assessment to rule out or treat any psychiatric disorders.

Once stabilization is reported the individual can transition to a level of care where emotional issues are addressed which is why the alcohol problem began in the first place. This phase of treatment is then followed by aftercare planning making sure the patient is provided with ongoing care after completing their inpatient alcohol treatment experience.

Lakeview has been ranked among the nation’s elite inpatient alcohol treatment centers. With the ability to treatment alcohol problems effectively and safely we receive patients from every state in the nation. For a free assessment just call us at 1-800-884-1727.