Are you struggling with alcohol use disorder? You’re not alone. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, more than 14 million adults in the United States have an alcohol use disorder (AUD).

Alcoholism can take a serious toll on physical and mental health. It can cause damage to organs, increase the risk of certain cancers, weaken the immune system, and make it more difficult to manage anxiety and depression. It can also lead to accidents, violence, and other dangerous behaviors.

Steps to Take When Recovering From Alcoholism

If you’re dealing with an alcohol use disorder, there are several steps you can take to help you in your recovery journey.

1. Create a Support System– Having supportive family and friends who understand the struggles of addiction is essential for long-term recovery. Participating in mutual aid groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, can also be beneficial. This can provide a source of accountability and help you stay on track with your recovery goals.

1. Set Realistic Goals– Recovering from an alcohol use disorder is not a linear process, so it’s important to set realistic goals for yourself. Develop a plan for yourself that takes into account different aspects of your life such as your physical health, mental health, and social life.

1. Make Healthy Lifestyle Changes– Implementing healthy lifestyle changes can help you cope with withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings for alcohol. This includes maintaining a regular sleep schedule, eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and avoiding triggers that could lead to relapse.

1. Seek Professional Help– Seeking rehab for alcoholics can be an important step in the recovery process. Professional rehab centers offer a comprehensive approach to recovery that includes individual and group therapy, medication management, and holistic treatments such as yoga and meditation.

These steps can help individuals in their recovery journey, but it’s important to remember that everyone is different. Everyone has their own unique needs and goals, so it’s important to find a treatment plan that works best for you.

Overcoming Barriers to Treatment in People Experiencing Alcoholism

The road to recovery is not easy, and there are several barriers to treatment that many people struggle with. These can include social stigma, affordability of treatment, lack of family support, or the fear of relapse.

There is a social stigma associated with alcoholism, which can prevent people from seeking treatment. It is important to remember that addiction is a disease and it’s not something to be ashamed of.

Affordability of treatment is another barrier many people face when trying to access recovery services. Many rehab centers are expensive and may not be covered by health insurance plans. There are public treatment centers offered by the government that are free or low-cost.

Family support can also be a barrier for some people, as many don’t have family members who understand and accept their addiction. It is important to remember that you don’t need family support to get better. There are many supportive communities that can provide a safe and understanding environment for individuals in their recovery journey.

The fear of relapse is also common among people with an alcohol use disorder, but it doesn’t have to be a barrier to treatment. Many rehab centers offer relapse prevention programs that teach individuals how to manage their urges to drink and stay sober.

Resources for Further Assistance in Dealing With Alcoholism

If you or someone you know is struggling with an alcohol use disorder, there are several resources available to get help. These include:

• Alcoholics Anonymous – a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support for people in recovery from drinking problems.
• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – a government organization that provides information and resources on substance abuse and mental health.
• Treatment centers – both inpatient and outpatient treatment centers are available to provide medical care and support for individuals struggling with an alcohol use disorder.
• Your doctor or healthcare provider – your doctor can be a great resource for advice, diagnosis, and referrals to local treatment centers.
• Hotlines – there are several hotlines available for individuals seeking help with an alcohol use disorder.

Alcoholism is a serious issue, and it’s important to remember that recovery is possible. With the right support system, an understanding of the signs and symptoms of an alcohol use disorder, and a treatment plan tailored to your needs, you can manage your addiction and take back control of your life.

If you or someone you know is in need of help with an alcohol use disorder, don’t hesitate to reach out. There are many resources available to offer support and guidance in the recovery process.