Three general steps are involved in treating the alcoholic person: intervention, detoxification, and rehabilitation.
Intervention
The goal in the intervention step is to break through feelings of denial and help the person realize the adverse consequences likely to occur if the disorder is not treated. This step often involves convincing patients that they are responsible for their own actions while reminding them of how alcohol has created significant life impairments.
Detoxification
Most persons with alcohol dependence have relatively mild symptoms when they stop drinking. If the patient is in relatively good health, is adequately nourished, and has a good social support system, the depressant withdrawal syndrome usually resembles a mild case of the flu. To aid in the patient’s alcohol withdrawal, a brain depressant such as chlordiazepoxide or lorazepam may be given for 4-5 days. For patients with severe withdrawal symptoms, either benzodiazepines or antipsychotic agents, such as haloperidol, may be given.
Symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, and mild autonomic overactivity are likely to continue for 2 to 6 months after the acute withdrawal period has passed. In some cases, medications such as acamprosate (Campral) may help diminish some of the symptoms.
Rehabilitation
The treatment process used in both inpatient and outpatient settings involves intervention, optimizing physical and psychological functioning, enhancing motivation, reaching out to family, and using the first 2 to 4 weeks of care as an intensive period of help. These efforts are followed by at least 3 to 6 months of less frequent outpatient care.
Counseling
Whether in an inpatient or outpatient setting, individual or group counseling is usually offered a minimum of three times a week for the first 2 to 4 weeks, followed by less intense efforts, such as once a week, for the subsequent 3 to 6 months.
Much time in counseling focuses on how to build a lifestyle free of alcohol. Discussions cover the need for a sober peer group, a plan for social and recreational events without drinking, and approaches for reestablishing communication with family members and friends.
An important aspect of recovery involves helping family members and close friends understand alcoholism and realize that rehabilitation is an ongoing process that lasts for 6 to 12 or more months.
Participation in self-help groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous is associated with improved outcomes for recovery from alcoholism.
Mental Health Library Sources:
Information included in all topics of the Mental Health Library comes from the Desk Reference to the Diagnostic Criteria From DSM-5 and Kaplan & Sadock’s Concise Textbook of Clinical Psychiatry. Complete diagnostic and treatment information may be found within these publications.
Disclaimer:
Information within the Mental Health Library is not intended to be used for self-diagnosis purposes. Rather, it is provided as a public educational service to make people aware of mental health conditions. Please consult a qualified mental health professional for a diagnosis of any suspected mental health illness.
Check Other Mental Health Conditions
Discover the essence of Harmony United Psychiatric Care through our impactful numbers. Our experienced team is dedicated to fostering mental well-being.
10
+
Years of Experience
With 10 years of unwavering commitment to mental health, we bring a wealth of experience to support our patients on their journey.
About Us64
+
Providers
Our dedicated team comprises 64 skilled therapists', psychiatrists', psychologists', ensuring personalized and expert care for each individual.
Providers20
+
Locations
Across multiple locations, we extend our reach to provide accessible mental health care tailored to diverse communities.
Locations114581
+
Patients Served
Over 114581 patients have entrusted us with their mental well-being, experiencing compassionate care and positive outcomes.
Book AppointmentWelcome to the latest edition of “Discover Harmony,” the newsletter from Harmony United Psychiatric Care! In this edition, we bring you insights, updates, and valuable information to support your mental well-being journey.
Subscribe to newsletter