Answer Addiction

Tag: alcohol addiction

  • How Does Alcohol Work?

    How Does Alcohol Work?

    Alcohol alters your brain and has many effects on your body. But how exactly does alcohol affect the body and brain? Does alcohol have the same effects for everyone, especially as relates to how alcohol makes you drunk? And who gets addicted to alcohol? We’ll explore these questions and more in this article. And we invite your questions about how alcohol works at the end.

    How does alcohol affect the brain and nervous system?

    Alcohol works as a depressant on the brain. Alcohol can also affect the inhibition of neurotransmitters, thus making you sluggish and slow to respond when drinking. Alcohol also directly interacts with the serotonin and dopamine receptors in the brain. This is what accounts for the feel good sensations in the body and good moods you feel when you’re drunk. When you drink too much, serotonin and dopamine carried by alcohol flood the brain and create this reaction. Over time, if you drink too much you can slowly kill brain cells which control memory and cognition.

    How does alcohol work in the body?

    Alcohol affects everyone differently based on your weight, age, and gender. But alcohol is process the same for everyone. Once you drink alcohol, it slowly moves through the body and absorbs into the blood stream. Most of the alcohol gets absorbed through the stomach and small intestine. Once in the bloodstream, alcohol can cross the blood-brain barrier and affect the brain. The liver then breaks down the alcohol and metabolizes, or processes, alcohol to pass through the system. Alcohol in system for how long? Alcohol can linger in the body some two odd hours after drinking.

    When alcohol starts to affect the body, your limbs feel a little numb and you lose control of motor functions. Your body responses are slower and your sense of touch decreases. If you drink too much all of the time, you begin to affect your liver and heart. Over time, alcohol weakens the liver’s ability to process alcohol and can actually cause disease in the liver. When you are drunk, accident likelihood increases and the potential for body harm can occur.

    How fast or quickly does alcohol work?

    How fast alcohol works involves a great many factors. Factors that contribute to the speed of intoxication include:

    1. Food in the stomach
    2. Gender
    3. Genetic factors of dependence
    4. Height
    5. Other substances and drugs in the system
    6. Tolerance
    7. Weight

    How long does alcohol work?

    Alcohol generally stays in the body for about 2 hours. You may feel the various effects of alcohol within about this time frame. In general, you can feel the effects of alcohol about 30 minutes after it enters the system. The effects might last for awhile afterward, depending on how much you continue to drink. Still, keep in mind that how long alcohol works varies by type of alcohol and type of physical body as well as the environmental and genetic factors which predispose drinking. People with a higher tolerance for alcohol may be intoxicated for shorter periods while those with low tolerance may be drunk for longer amounts of time.

    Alcohol work better

    Alcohol has a stronger effect on people with lower tolerance. The concept of the “light weight” actually means that alcohol works better on people with a lower tolerance for alcohol. Additionally, different strengths of alcohol content will work better on some people. Drinking on an empty stomach will get you drunker faster than if you had food in the body.

    Also, some people take many different types of drugs both illegal and prescribed while they drink. Other times people purposefully use drugs and drink. Don’t do this! If you are on medications and drink, pharmaceutical drugs can interact with alcohol in negative ways. In these cases, drugs increase the absorption rate of the alcohol into the system. The end result might be faster intoxication, but you can also overdose or experience alcohol poisoning. Likewise, alcohol increases the effects of drugs in the system making the high stronger, as well as increasing the danger of all the substances in the body. Consult your labels.

    Does alcohol work for everyone?

    Yes. Alcohol works on almost everyone. Because there are so many different forms of alcohol, it really is a matter of finding what works for you. Some people do have a very high tolerance to alcohol and it may take many drinks or high alcohol content start to feel the effect of alcohol and to alter mood and perceptions in the way the body and mind reacts to everything.

    How alcohol works questions

    There are so many different types of alcohol. Wine, beer, and hard liquor, to name a few. But drinking alcohol is not always bad for you if you drink responsibly. Do you still have questions about how alcohol works? Please leave your questions here. We will try our best to answer you personally and promptly. And if we don’t know the answer to your questions, we’ll refer you to someone who does.

    Reference Sources: NIH: Alcohol effects the body
    NIAAA: Alcohol and the brain
    NIAAA: Exploring Alcohol’s Effects on Liver Function
    State of California: Stop Teen DUI campaign – The short and long term effects of alcohol

    View the original article at addictionblog.org

  • Treatment Options for Youth Diagnosed with Substance Addictions

    Treatment Options for Youth Diagnosed with Substance Addictions

    ARTICLE OVERVIEW: Adolescence is a time of self-discovery and experimentation and unfortunately for most teens, this means experimenting with alcohol and drugs. While some teens don’t end up addicted after their first few encounters, plenty of others do… leading to a lifelong struggle.
    Here, we’ll explore just what substances teens use. Then, we look at the direct interventions that can save your teen’s life. Finally, we invite your questions at the end.

    TABLE OF CONTENTS:

    Common Substance Addictions Teens Face

    1. Marijuana. Marijuana or weed remains hugely popular among teens with 45% of 12th graders reporting having used it at some point in their lives. [1] Most teens don’t consider marijuana addictive or harmful, explaining its popularity. [2]

    2. Alcohol. Alcohol is perhaps the most readily available and widely consumed substance among US teens. According to the 2017 Monitor The Future survey, up to 61.5% of 12th graders and 42.2% of 10th graders have taken alcohol at least once. [3]

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    3. Opioids. Prescription drugs are alarmingly easily available to teens with most obtaining them right in their home’s medicine cabinets. Common opioids abused by teens include codeine, Vicodin and OxyContin.

    4. Study aid drugs. Study drugs such as Ritalin, Adderall and Concerta are regularly misused by students in a bid to boost their grades. [4] These drugs sharpen focus and heighten attention spans, making it possible for teens to concentrate for longer periods. Unfortunately, they’re also highly addictive.

    5. Hallucinogens. Teens usually experiment with hallucinogens for fun and to “expand the mind” but before long, they’re hooked. Hallucinogens such as LSD, Salvia and magic mushrooms like psilocybin have seen a resurgence in teen use in recent years.

    Rehabs Offer the Best Treatment

    The signs of drug use and addiction vary with individuals and the substances used. It’s therefore recommended that parents know what signs to watch out for in their teens since early detection of illicit drug use might improve treatment outcomes. [5]

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    When it comes to treatment options, teen drug rehabilitation programs offer the best chance for teens to beat their addictions. As of 2015, there were more than 14,500 substance abuse treatment centers across the U.S. but only less than 10% of addicted teens are enrolled in these centers. This means that most of those who desperately need help aren’t receiving it.

    Even among those who access rehabs, full recovery from addiction isn’t completely guaranteed and about 40-60% of addicts eventually relapse. To parents, this might seem like failure and a futile endeavor. Why take my teen to rehab if they might start using again?

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    However, it’s important for parents to remember that addiction causes extensive damage mentally, physically and psychologically and is a tough habit to beat, especially for teens who are still growing.

    If your teen relapses that doesn’t mean that the rehab process failed. It simply means that treatment has to be reinstated with a few tweaks and adjustments. Most of all, parents should remember that taking their teens to rehab gives them a shot at regaining their lives.

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    Available Treatment Options

    There are two main types of rehabs:

    1. Outpatient rehab. This gives teens daily, part-time support so they don’t have to commit to residency. They arrive at the rehab center for appointments, therapy sessions then they’re free to return home. Outpatient rehabs are ideal for teens who don’t require constant supervision and those who don’t mind daily commutes.

    2. Inpatient rehab. These rehabs have proven hugely successful in helping teens fight addiction, especially when it’s become a deeply entrenched habit that significantly affects a teen’s life. The most common types of inpatient rehabs are residential treatment centers for teens where they enroll for a period of time, receiving full support to help overcome their addiction. One of the reasons inpatient rehabs are so effective is because teens are removed from the influence of the environment that led to their addiction.

    The Rehab Treatment Process

    Once your teen is admitted to rehab, they undergo a complete diagnosis then receive a custom treatment plan according to their addiction. The treatment program will likely include a variation of these addiction treatment modalities:

    1. Detox

    Detoxification is the body’s way of flushing out drugs or alcohol so that your teen can start healing. [6]  This is a natural process that takes anywhere between a few days and weeks depending on your teen’s individual situation.
    Since they’re in rehab, they’ll receive full professional care and assistance to make the detox and withdrawal process as comfortable as possible.

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    2. Therapy

    Teens in rehab take part in different therapies depending on their addiction and situation. Common ones include:

    Cognitive behavioral therapy. Usually done in individual sessions, this type of therapy seeks to uncover the thought patterns that drive a teen’s addiction and seek to reshape them. Teens learn how to develop strategies to help avoid high-risk situations as well as communication, problem-solving, coping and self-regulation skills.

    Family Therapy. Families influence most of a teen’s behaviors and beliefs and play a huge role both in developing and overcoming addiction. Family therapy, therefore, brings together those who are closest to the addicted teen in a bid to help them address underlying issues that caused the addiction in the first place. Families learn constructive ways of communicating, solving problems and bonding.

    Group Therapy. Participating in group therapy allows teens to share and draw strength from others who are going through similar issues. They learn more about themselves and the group can act as a support system and sounding board.

    Recreational Therapy. Most teens with a substance addiction end up so focused on feeding their addictions that they miss out on a huge part of their lives. Recreational therapy helps teens engage in leisure activities including sports, games, arts and crafts, helping them rediscover an enjoyable part of their life. Additionally, they get to improve their social skills by interacting with other teens in a healthy way while building positive personal traits.

    3. Medication

    Getting over an addiction sometimes requires the use of medication to restore normal health, reduce cravings or treat any underlying psychiatric disorders. Given the strong nature of some of these medicines, they should only be taken under strict medical supervision to avoid creating a new addiction.

    Helping Your Teen to Stay Clean

    It’s normal for parents to worry about helping their teens stay clean once they come home from rehab. One of the key components of successful rehabilitation is having an aftercare plan to prevent relapse. [7] A 12-step program like the Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can be invaluable in providing your teen with the guidance and support they need to stay clean. Scheduling one-on-one counseling for your teen can also help them stay on course with their recovery.

    It can be daunting to discover that your teen has a substance addiction but getting them the right treatment goes a long way towards helping them not only beat the addiction but also get their lives back on track.

    Reference Sources: [1] Addiction Blog: Trends in Popular Drugs Among Teens
    [2] NIDA: Monitoring the Future Survey: High School and Youth Trends
    [3] NIDA: Monitoring the Future Study: Trends in Prevalence of Various Drugs
    [4] Drug Abuse: History and Statistics of “Study Drugs”
    [5] Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience: Early Detection of Illicit Drug Use in Teenager
    [6] Addiction Blog: What is drug detox and how does it work?
    [7] Addiction Blog: The 3 Secrets of Successful Addiction Rehabilitation
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    View the original article at addictionblog.org

  • 6 Ways of Helping Your Alcoholic Child

    6 Ways of Helping Your Alcoholic Child

    ARTICLE OVERVIEW: Finding out that your child has become addicted to alcohol is a challenging situation for any parent to face.  But where do you start to look for help? What treatment approach is the best? We answer these questions here and invite your questions at the end of the page.

    TABLE OF CONTENTS:

    Warning signs of alcohol addiction

    It is natural for parents to think that alcoholism only occurs in other households; however, addiction does not discriminate. Alcohol abuse can affect people at almost any age, from the teenage years to adulthood. It can also become a problem for any individual, regardless of income level, race, region or gender.

    Even straight-A students can fall prey to the dangers of alcohol abuse. The important thing is to watch for signs of abuse in order to know when it’s time to help an addicted child quickly and effectively.

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    Common signs among teenagers include:

    • A decreased interest in physical appearance.
    • Asking for money without a good explanation or stealing items.
    • Increased obsession with privacy, such as locking the bedroom door at all times.
    • Sudden lack of interest in schoolwork and other responsibilities or activities.

    Some common signs of addiction in all ages include the following:

    • Confusion
    • Decreased appetite and unexplained weight loss
    • Drowsiness
    • Memory problems
    • Sudden change in personality or behaviors, such as increased irritability

    Part of knowing how to help an addicted child is becoming aware of these signs and knowing when to intervene.

    How can you help?

    1. Research addiction and understand what it is.

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    If you want to truly help a child struggling with alcoholism, it is important not to avoid the problem. Some parents ignore the issue due to embarrassment or denial. Rather than blaming themselves or hoping the substance abuse will go away on its own, parents need to understand that their child’s alcoholism does not reflect on them; addiction is a disease.

    That’s right, a disease.

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    In fact, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism defines problem drinking as more than one drink per day for women or more than 2 drinks per day for men. [1] Additionally, the organization goes on to describe alcoholism as severe problem drinking that requires diagnosis and intervention. [2] Browse this website to learn more about alcohol addiction, the most common and pervasive addiction on the planet. Or, ask us a question in the comments section below.

    2. Wait for a moment of sobriety.

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    It is important to talk to your child about the alcohol use. Approach your child when he or she is not currently using alcohol. An important part of knowing how to help an addicted child involves trusting your own instincts as a parent. Wait for a time when you are both calm and at ease, rather than letting emotions to spiral out of control. Instead of expressing accusation, talk calmly, yet seriously, about your concerns.

    3. Stop enabling behaviors.

    It is natural for parents to want to help their children, but alcoholic children need to learn to deal with the negative consequences of their behavior. Do not lie to teachers, bosses or other family members about your child’s alcohol abuse. Discuss the repercussions if your child does not stop abusing alcohol. For a teenager, this might mean having a car taken away. For a grown child, this could mean that you will no longer lend money or bail your child out of tricky situations. Knowing how to help an addicted child includes using your own knowledge of your family and the specific situation.

    4. Stage an intervention.

    Call us on the phone number listed here to learn more about this process. Usually, you meet with an addiction counselor or therapist before the intervention, but without your child. Together, you discuss how you’ll approach the child and what each of you will say. You can also discuss about possible reactions with the therapist.

    You may want to write down what kind of behaviors will not be tolerated and what will be the consequences if they appear, as well as writing down all the things that were lost after your child’s behavior has changed.

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    Keep in mind that an intervention is successful even if your child refuses to go to rehab, because at least the family has united to set a boundary. This means life will not be the same for your child, and a process has started that will one day result in him or her getting treatment.

    5. Seek treatment.

    If your child is unable to stop abusing alcohol on his/her own, it may be time to seek professional treatment.  Many rehab centers offer options for teenagers and younger patients. Inpatient treatment can help by removing your child from a harmful peer group and providing professional guidance and supervision during detoxification.

    6. Family therapy and support groups.

    In addition to learning how to help an addicted child, parents should also focus on the whole family. Dealing with an alcoholic child can be draining for any family, so it is also important to learn healthy coping mechanisms, avoid extra stress and seek support. Parents can benefit from support groups that specifically address the challenges faced by parents of alcohol abusers.

    What if your child doesn’t accept rehab?

    Offering help and providing your child with rehabilitation options may be all you can do. In most cases, people with drinking problems overcome addiction when they are too tired to fight anymore, when they are faced with too much pain, or when they realize that alcohol isn’t the answer. What do they all have in common?

    People who enter addiction recovery have made a decision to try something different. This decision is their own…you cannot force it.

    You should not put too much pressure on yourself if your child does not want to quit. If your treatment offers are contantly refused, you can work on doing research together to show him/her why they should get better. And, you can focus on yourself.

    Often, drinking problems exist as a red flag to dysfunction in a family or social system. Are there other things going on in the household that require your attention? What about your own mental health? Turn the magnifying glass inward, to yourself or to your family system. Start asking questions.

    Finally, even though your son or daughter might refuse treatment, you should continue visiting family support meetings and find help for yourself on how to deal with your inner struggles on this issue. The only other thing you can do is keep encouraging your child to go to treatment. But you also need to have a strong base of self-awareness and love. No one else can do this for you.

    Your questions

    Are you still afraid of addressing your child’s addiction?

    You are not alone.

    Please leave us your questions or comments in the section below. We’ll try to respond to you personally and promptly, or refer you to help.

    Reference Sources:[1] NIAAA: Drinking Definitions
    [2] NIAAA: Alcohol Use Disorder
    Ohio – Department of Youth Services: Project Know – Understanding your addiction: How to Help an Addict or Alcoholic Child
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    View the original article at addictionblog.org

  • Intervention for Alcoholism

    Intervention for Alcoholism

    ARTICLE OVERVIEW: An alcohol intervention is when a group of family and friendsconfront a loved one about problem drinking. In this article, we cover the basic aspects of an alcohol intervention, plus we offer tips on how to plan the whole process. Your questions are welcomed at the end.

    ESTIMATED READING TIME: 15 minutes

    TABLE OF CONTENTS:

    Interventions aim to change behavior.

    What is an Alcohol Intervention?

    Interventions are combination of strategies designed to produce behavior changes to improve an individual’s health. Interventions can take place in different settings such as worksites, schools, home, faith-based organizations, or health care facilities.Interventions that include multiple strategies are typically the most effective in producing the required change. [1]

    An alcohol intervention is the process of asking a loved one with a drinking problem to go to rehab. Interventions can be informal or formal. Informal interventions occur in the moment, and can be a simple discussion. A formal intervention is when a group of people confront the person in an effort to convince them to seek help for their alcoholism.

    An intervention for alcoholism has three main goals:

    1. To change the beliefs, attitudes, skills, and knowledge of the person.
    2. To increase social support and cooperation.
    3. To get the person into rehab.

    An intervention is most successful when led by a professional.

    Do Alcohol Interventions Work?

    Yes!

    Most people diagnosed with an alcohol use disorder don’t see that they have a problem. In fact, they are in denial, and don’t want to see reality as it is.

    But, you can help a loved one break through denial by staging an intervention. You may have only one chance to stage the intervention, and the best way to do it is with a help of intervention specialist.

    An interventionist is a professional who is trained in staging interventions. Their job is to help friends and family to create a plan. They are there to carry out the alcohol intervention. The best thing is that an interventionist will consider all potential issues that may arise. Their experience is truly valuable.

    Asking for help from a specialized interventionist is highly recommended if the person who is dealing with drinking problems has other serious condition including:

    • Mental health issues such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia
    • Polydrug use
    • Suicidal attempts
    • Violent behavior

    Interventions get people into treatment.

    The Intervention for Alcoholism Process

    Staging and planning an alcohol intervention is a long process. It can take a lot of time and energy for family and friends to prepare for the whole process. And if you want to do it right, plan to spend days to weeks with a professional getting ready for the big day. There are many types of intervention, but most of them follow these basic steps:

    STEP 1: Meet with an intervention specialist.

    Asking help from an interventionist can be the crucial step for the family. Licensed or certified professionals are experienced in choosing the right words and providing the right environment for change. They can help the family in understanding alcoholism as a disease, and offer the best approach to each specific case.

    STEP 2: Chose the right time and place for the intervention.

    An intervention can be set up in any place that provides privacy. This may be a neutral place like a rented space, an interventionist’s office, school, worksite, or even the alcoholic’s home. The important thing is that the loved one should not feel defensive or ambushed. You’ll need to invite the loved one to join the group meeting and be clear about what it’s about. This is called an “invitational intervention”.

    STEP 3: Plan ahead what will be said during the intervention.

    This is the most important step for a successful alcohol intervention. Each member should decide in advance what they will say. With the help of an interventionist, the group should gather information about the loved one’s drinking and their behavior when under the influence. Moreover, you’ll need to include situations when the alcoholic had outburst due to their drinking, as well as state how their drinking affectsyou. It is helpful to write down everything you wish to say, although sometimes, you can just speak from your heart.

    STEP 4: Carry out the intervention.

    This is when professional guidance is key. Once the individual is there, the interventionist will ask them to sit and listen to what is being said. Then, each member of the group will say or read the reasons why they believe that the individual have a drinking problem, and why they need treatment. Usually, the intervention ends with the group giving the individual option to choose either enroll into treatment and quit drinking or face consequences, such as cutting out financial or emotional support.

    The group also commits to their own health and well-being, as alcoholism is a family disease. A successful intervention has the potential to transform not just the person with a drinking problem, but an entire family. [2]Group members can seek help through talk therapy, self-care, and ongoing counseling.

    STEP 5: Follow up an intervention.

    After the intervention, the individual has a choice to make either quit drinking or face the consequences. The interventionist provides information about the treatment options and explains them to the alcoholic. In some cases, the specialist has already arranged an assessment in a suitable treatment center. No matter what is the outcome, the group must follow through their final decisions.

    Call us to learn how we do interventions.

    How to Stage an Alcoholism Intervention

    It can be hard to approach someone who deals with alcohol problems. Despite the fact that family and friends mean well, they may not know what to say or how to express themselves. In order to get through to a loved one, you need to make them see the problem. So, for a successful intervention, you need to plan every step ahead.

    Here are some useful suggestions to take into consideration when planning an alcohol intervention for your loved one. Remember that staging an intervention is the most important step. Careful planning and risk management can lead to success.

    • Find a licensed interventionist. An intervention professional will know what to do in difficult situations. S/He will keep a“neutral zone” between the parties. A licensed professional can help the alcoholic break the wall of denial, and help them the best rehab option for them.

    • Form a good, stable intervention group. Choose members wisely. Many people may want to help, but not everyone is helpful. Avoid inviting group members who are negative or overly dramatic. Not everyone has the ability to persuade someone that they have a drinking problem. Once you form the dream team, the group works with the interventionist to create a strategy.

    • Education. One critical part of an intervention is to educate the group about addiction and recovery. Being familiar with the topic provides insights of the problem that can play a huge role in convincing someone that they need help.

    • Mind your language. Talk from the heart. Keep in mind that their trust in you is important, and it needs be felt through the whole intervention. By talking personally without judgment will make the intervention process flow easily. Moreover, be open with your feelings, and see how they resonate with you.

    • Rehearse and prepare. The members of the group must rehearse for the intervention. Every speech should be prepared and rehearsed many times with the help of the specialist. Setting the right tone and describing situations of past hurt may trigger moment of clarity to the addicted person and see their problems.

    • Be prepared for the worst. Keep in mind that some interventions don’t go as planned. You cannot predict how your loved one will act. A professional interventionist is there to keep the peace between the parties, and make the most positive outcome of the intervention. However, the person who is dealing with drinking problems may react aggressively and endanger the group. In that case, call 911 immediately.

    A successful intervention can change an entire family.

    Planning for Objections

    When you plan an intervention you need also to plan for objections. Identify in advance the objections to treatment that your loved one may raise. These objections will be answered during the intervention by the person who will lead the intervention. Every objection need to have a reasonable and workable response. The group needs to have prepared answers and plans in advance.Here are some examples of objections and their counters:

    OBJECTION:I can’t go to rehab. Who’s going to take care of my pet?
    RESPONSE:[NAME] has agreed to take your pet and look after them while you are away.

    OBJECTION:I can’t enroll into a program. Who’s going to take care of my home?
    RESPONSE:Your best friend has a key from your apartment, and s/he will come every 3-4 days to care for the home while you are away.

    OBJECTION: I can’t go into treatment. I have a job. I don’t want to lose my job.
    RESPONSE:You won’t lose your job. We have a law that protects you. The Americans with Disabilities Act protects you to maintain your working status when you seek medical help. [3] The law is clear that you have legal right to ask for accommodations when entering rehab.

    OBJECTION:I will be bored there. Rehab is not an option for me.
    RESPONSE:Rehab treatment has many program to offer you in order not to be bored, but to focus on building yourself and work on your recovery. Some of them offer [SERVCICES].

    Are you ready for an intervention? Call us today.

    Planning for Consequences

    A professional interventionist will help you determine which person has the most influence on the loved one who has leverage. When you have leverage, you have the power to precipitate actual consequences. Here are some examples of leverage that can be used in the right way and that will have consequences on the alcoholic’s life.

    1. The employer: “We respect you and value as an employee, but your drinking has caused you to miss 10 days of work in the last few months. We will do everything to help you, including helping you to access treatment because we have Employee Assistance Program. But, we cannot keep you as an employee if you miss work so often.”

    2. A spouse: “I love you, and I care about you, but I cannot raise our children in an alcoholic household. Our children are afraid from you when you come home late and drunk. If you don’t go into treatment, I’m going to have put the well-being of our children first, and start looking at other options, including divorce.”

    3. A parent: “The car you are driving is on my name. I don’t want to put your life in danger as well as of the lives of others because you are drunk driving. If you don’t go to rehab, I am taking the car today.”

    Environment matters.

    Alcohol Intervention at Home

    The place where the intervention will occur is important. Privacy and safety are first. The loved one needs to feel safe, because if they are concerned or uncomfortable, the intervention may turn negative. The loved one may become agitated, and lose their temper. For example, never ambush a person in a public spot to intervene about drinking issues.

    For many people, the safest place an interventioncan occur is at home. A cozy atmosphere increases security and safeness for every member of the intervention. However, some cases require a more neutral place like a rented space or a clinician’s office. This is true when triggers are in the home or when guns are present. Call us to learn more about safety precautions and how we manage environment for successful outcome.

    Why wait longer? Call today for a free and confidential consultation.

    Unique Attributes of an Alcoholic Intervention

    1 in 3 families is affected by addiction problems in the U.S. Alcohol is #1 on the list. 56% of Americans aged 18 and older are currently alcohol consumers, while 1 in 18 people have a drinking problem. [4]

    Still, it may be hard to reach someone and convince them that they have a drinking problem. Alcohol abuse changes the way a person thinks and sees life. Alcohol affect the way we process information…and if a person has become alcohol-dependent, their logic changes, too.

    Some people may get angry because an intervention may seem to be an ambush. However, if the intervention is planned appropriately and done correctly, the anger will calm down quickly. Even if the anger continues, a professional interventionist will keep the tone calm and neutral.

    Keep in mind that the intervention is not about you. The intervention is about your loved one, and the main point is getting them help and supporting them through this hard time.

    Get your loved one into treatment!

    The Best Intervention for Alcoholism

    There are many different types of interventions, but the best intervention for dealing with individual with is a customized intervention that will fit that individual’s needs. Below is a list of the most common types of clinical interventions used for drinking problems.

    ARISE

    An ARISE intervention is a relatively new system of intervention that involves the whole family but it’s less confrontational than a surprise model for intervention. The loved one is invited to the intervention and a set of clear steps then follow.

    Brief Intervention

    This intervention process is conducted as a one-on-one meeting between a medical professional/counselor and a person dealing with alcohol abuse. Usually, brief interventions take place in hospitals after the person has been admitted for an injure or overdose due to their substance use, or in schools if a student is suspected of drinking, or in a doctor’s office after an examination reveals health issues. Moreover, friends and family may ask professional to perform a brief intervention for their loved one.

    Crisis Intervention

    This type of intervention involves police officers providing social and medical resources to people who are abusing substances, suffer from a mental health disorder, or have dual diagnosis. A crisis intervention can lead to a public record with your state’s department of children and families, health, or social services.

    Family Systemic Intervention

    This model is focused on both the individual with AUD and their family. Having on mind that addiction affects every member of the family, this type of intervention intents the whole family to reach out for help in any form of therapy.

    SMART

    The main goal of this type of intervention is to set clear, measurable, and achievable goals for the intervention. This intervention can be applied as a part of follow-up in a family based intervention.

    The Johnson Model

    The most well-known form of intervention, the Johnson Model is designed to convince people dealing with alcoholism to enroll into a rehab program. The problem with this model is that it is a “surprise”.

    What’s your backup plan?

    When Alcohol Intervention Fails

    Be prepared that interventionscan fail.You cannot help someone who doesn’t want help. You cannot make them change.

    In this hard case scenario, it is important to stick with your planned intervention. Then, be patient. Some interventions take time and do-overs. How long will it take? Until the alcoholic realizes the negative consequences of their drinking and seek treatment. In the meantime, you need to take care of yourself.

    Call us for guidance on interventions. We know addiction.

    Get Help from a Professional Interventionist

    If you want your intervention to succeed, plan it with professional help from a licensed
    interventionist. Call us to learn about how we’ve helped hundreds of families over many decades of experience.

    Moreover, every interventionist no matter the model they are using, they will guide the intervention with the 7 important principles that any intervention for alcohol use disorder should follow:

    1. Meet with a certified interventionist.
    2. Plan in advance.
    3. Choose the right people to take part.
    4. Choose the right time for the intervention.
    5. Speak with respect and love, but never with anger.
    6. Follow through.
    7. Take care of yourself.

    Finally, there are several ways you can find certified interventionists:

    • Call us on the helpline displayed on our website.
    • Contact a community, religious, or spiritual leader for recommendations.
    • Get a referral from a doctor or therapist.
    • Speak with a social worker.
    • Search online on:

    Independent Interventionists
    Association of Intervention Specialists

    Don’t lose hope!

    Alcoholism is a treatable disease, and you can help your loved one change their mind about treatment. You only need help from the professionals.

    If you have any questions, post them in the comments section at the end. We try to respond personally and promptly to all legitimate queries.

    Call today. Treatment saves lives.

    Reference Sources:
    [1] Health.mo.gov: Intervention
    [2] The Definitive Guide To Addiction Interventions
    [3] U.S. Department of Labor: Americans with Disabilities Act
    [4] SAMHSA: The National Survey on Drug Use and Health 2015
    NCBI: Interventions with alcoholics and their families

    View the original article at addictionblog.org

  • Alcohol Addiction and Abuse

    Alcohol Addiction and Abuse

    ARTICLE SUMMARY: Alcoholism the #1 addiction in America. The social acceptance of drinking can often lead to denial. But if left untreated, a drinking problem has severe consequences.

    ESTIMATED READING TIME: 5-10 minutes.

    TABLE OF CONTENTS:

    New studies reveal that NO LEVEL OF ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION improves health. In other words, alcohol is not good for you.

    No Healthy Amount

    Most people drink for one of two reasons:

    1. People drink alcohol to cope with stress.
    2. People drink alcohol because of social influences.

    Indeed, alcohol is socially acceptable. Most of us drink it in various forms, including beer, wine, and hard liquor. And many of us think that there are health benefits associated with consuming up to two drinks per day. However, recent studies are finding that no level of alcohol consumption improves health. So, a drinking problem can occur… even if you think you’re drinking within reasonable limits.

    “Abuse” Definitions

    According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans,1 moderate alcohol consumption is defined as having up to 1 drink per day for women and up to 2 drinks per day for men. However, the Dietary Guidelines do not recommend that people who do not drink alcohol start drinking for any reason. This is simply because alcohol is not good for you!

    Not everyone who drinks is an alcoholic. In fact, about half of all Americans are active drinkers. But if your life is negatively affected by alcohol on a consistent basis, you may have a problem.

    So, what does it mean to “abuse” alcohol? The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) has a website Rethinking Drinking that defines what problem drinking is. And it’s not based on how much you drink, exactly. They say,”

    The more drinks you drink on any day and the more heavy drinking days over time, the greater the risk—not only for an alcohol use disorder, but also for other health and personal problems.

    Still, you can begin to suspect a drinking problem when…

    Men: You drink more than 4 drinks on any day OR you drink more than 14 drinks per week.
    Women: You drink more than 3 drinks on any day OR you drink more than 7 drinks per week.

    Image credit: NIAAA Rethinking Drinking

    So, if you are drinking like this, are you an alcoholic? According to the NIAAA, about 1 in 4 people who exceed these limits already has an alcohol use disorder (also called “alcoholism”). The remaining 3 in 4 people are at greater risk for developing these and other problems. Again, individual risks vary. People can have problems drinking less than these amounts, particularly if they drink too quickly.

    Use this NIAAA form to verify a drinking problem.

    DRINKING TOO MUCH + TOO OFTEN = TOO RISKY

    Definitions of a standard drink:

    Beer

    Beer is an alcoholic drink typically made from water, barley, hops, and yeast. Many people think that beer is safer to drink than wine or liquor. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) describes the real story about beer on this alcohol FAQ page:

    Q: Is beer or wine safer to drink than liquor?
    A: No. One 12-ounce beer has about the same amount of alcohol as one 5-ounce glass of wine or 1.5-ounce shot of liquor.

    In fact, one beer may be your limit for the night, if you’re a man…and half a beer may be all you need if you’re a woman. It is the amount of alcohol consumed that affects a person most, not the type of alcoholic drink.

    But beer is a part of American culture. It can be hard to ignore the billboards and advertising around beer. There are drinking games based on beer, sporting events usually always have beer available, and beer is a part of post-work get together. Plus, the trend for microbrewed, craft beers is on the rise. However, even people who drink during social activities or who only drink craft beer can develop an alcohol use disorder.

    So, how do you know if you’re addicted to beer, or not?

    Signs of a problem may include continuing to drink when everyone else has stopped or feeling the need to drink during uncomfortable or boring situations. Basically, a drinking problem causes disruption in your life. So, if you’re facing beer addiction you may have difficulty making it to work on time, keeping up with schoolwork, or recovering from drinking the next day. To get help for a beer addiction now, please send us a message or give us a call.

    Wine

    Wine is made from fermented grapes. It is mostly sold as white wine or red wine with a variety of flavor profiles based on the type of grape used. For example, popular white wines include Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Riesling. Popular red wines include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Syrah / Shiraz.

    The percentage of alcohol in wine can vary widely; therefore, read the labels and adjust accordingly. When compared to beer, wine has a more concentrated amount of alcohol. Still, an average 5 oz. glass of wine is equivalent in alcohol content to 12 oz. of beer. An overpoured glass of wine, however, could contain much more alcohol than a standard drink.

    Wine is often consumed with meals. It has a status as a “classy” drink that can make it harder to spot a problem. Drinking wine may be a problem for you if any of these things are true:

    • Drinking wine causes trouble with your relationships, school, or work.
    • You can’t control how much wine you drink.
    • You’ve tried quitting drinking but cannot.
    • You feel anxious, irritable, or stressed when you aren’t drinking wine.

    If you or someone you care about has been drinking wine more frequently than intended or using it to combat anxious or depressive feelings, there may be a deeper issue at play. The earlier you get help for a wine addiction, the better! Wine problems are medical in nature and can be treated professionally.

    Liquor

    “Liquor” is the term used for hard alcoholic drinks or spirits like tequila, vodka, gin, rum and whiskey. Liquor has a much higher volume of alcohol than beer or wine: approximately 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits contain about 40% alcohol. Additionally, the type of spirit, recipe, and size of serving glass can impact the quantity of hard liquor in the drink. A mixed drink can contain from one to three or more standard drinks.

    Liquor can impact and speed up the development of a drinking problem. This is due to the way we metabolize alcohol. The Indian Health Service explains it like this…when a person drinks an alcoholic beverage, about 20% of the alcohol is absorbed in the stomach and about 80% is absorbed in the small intestine. The rate the alcohol is absorbed depends upon a few factors:

    1. The higher the concentration of alcohol, the faster the absorption.
    2. Carbonated drinks tend to speed up absorption of alcohol.
    3. Whether the stomach is full or empty. Food can slow down alcohol absorption.

    Basically, increased absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream can cause quicker intoxication. It’s like comparing oral vs. injection routes of drug administration. The quicker a drug hits your bloodstream and crosses the blood-brain barrier, the more addictive. Plus, the lower liquid content of shots make them easier to consume, leading to a higher risk of alcoholism.

    Regardless of the type of liquor consumed, alcohol of any kind possesses serious addiction potential. But you can get help for a liquor addiction now. Continue reading for more ideas.

    Binge Drinking

    Drinking too much at once is called “binge drinking”. As noted by the CDC, it is the most common way people drink too much in the U.S. But what does it mean to binge drink?

    The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism defines binge drinking as a pattern of drinking that brings a person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 0.08 grams percent or above. Guidelines follow.

    Men: You binge drink when you consume 5 or more drinks on a single occasion and usually occurs within about 2 hours.
    Women: You binge drink when you consume 4 or more drinks on a single occasion and usually occurs within about 2 hours.

    While most people who binge drink are not alcohol dependent, binge drinking is the most common, costly, and deadly pattern of drinking too much. It causes injury and serious risk to health. It occurs frequently, with one in six adults binging about four times a month. And in many cases, prolonged binge drinking can develop into alcoholism.

    Mixing Alcohol with Drugs

    Because drinking is easily accessible, people often mix alcohol with other drugs. However, alcohol is both a central nervous depressant AND a stimulant… thereby posing a serious risk to your health when you mix it. For example, when mixed with benzodiazepines, opiates, or Rx painkillers, alcohol can trigger overdose effects. Alcohol on its own can be dangerous, but combining it with other substances can quickly prove lethal.

    When It Becomes Addiction

    Addiction occurs somewhere in a person’s drinking history. It can happen fast, within the span of a few months. Or, addiction can occur over the course of years. So when do you know you’ve crossed the line and become addicted to alcohol?

    Alcoholism (a.k.a. alcohol addiction) is marked by a craving for alcohol. This craving occurs after the first drink and compels you to drink more. Craving also occurs when you’re NOT drinking; it can drive you back to alcohol. People who are addicted also are unable to stop drinking, especially in the face of personal or social harm.

    Signs of an alcohol addiction include:

    • Alcohol dependence.
    • An increased tolerance (needing to drink more to feel drunk).
    • Frequently drinking more than intended.
    • Spending time getting alcohol, drinking it, or recovering from its effects.
    • Wanting to stop drinking but being unable to.

    High-Functioning Alcoholism

    Not all alcoholics are bottom of the bottle drinkers.

    In the early 2000’s researchers officially recognized a subset of drinkers called “high-functioning” alcoholics. Study author Howard B. Moss, M.D., NIAAA Associate Director for Clinical and Translational Research said, “We find that young adults comprise the largest group of alcoholics in this country, and nearly 20 percent of alcoholics are highly functional and well-educated with good incomes.”

    The problem with high-functioning alcoholism is that it can go undiagnosed. As people are able to keep their jobs, and experience relatively few harms…they often do not seek help. If you think you might have a drinking problem, ask for help. Here are some suggestions that we have for you:

    • Ask your friends and loved ones to support you.
    • Talk to a doctor or nurse if you are having a hard time cutting down on your drinking.
    • If one type of treatment doesn’t work for you, you can try another. Don’t give up!
    • Call 1-800-662-HELP (1-800-662-4357) for information about treatment.
    • To explore treatment options, visit the NIAAA Treatment Navigator.

    Statistics

    Alcohol use is a leading risk factor for disease burden worldwide, accounting for nearly 10% of global deaths among populations aged 15–49 years, according to the 2016 Global Burden of Diseases report. This 2011 study breaks down the most common disease categories that are entirely or partly caused by alcohol consumption, which can include:

    • Cancer
    • Cardiovascular disease
    • Diabetes
    • Infectious diseases
    • Liver and pancreas disease
    • Neuropsychiatric diseases (including alcohol use disorders)
    • Unintentional and intentional injury

    Why wait for things to get worse?

    Reach out and get help today.

    When to Get Help

    Getting help for a drinking problem early is best!

    So, if you think that you have a problem with alcohol, it’s best to assume that you do.

    Then, reach out for help.

    You are not alone!

    Many people who struggle with alcohol addiction find it difficult or impossible to quit on their own. There are many programs designed to get you the help you need. Or, you can increase your chance of a full recovery with the help of an alcohol rehab center. Get in touch with one today….and increase your chances for success and an alcohol-free life!

    View the original article at

  • Drunk Driving

    Drunk Driving

    ARTICLE OVERVIEW: This article provides a brief review of the consequences you face if you get arrested for drunk driving. 

    TABLE OF CONTENTS:

    What’s the Drunk Driving Limit?

    Alcohol is a depressant. It works by slowing down the activity of the central nervous system. When you drink, information and activity across the brain is delayed. Plus, alcohol impairs cognitive and psychomotor skills. For these reasons, drinking and driving increases the risk of:

    • Car accidents
    • Injuries
    • Vehicular deaths

    So, what’s the official limit for drink driving?

    According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it is illegal to drive with blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.8 g/dL or higher in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. This means that your BAC needs to be lower than 0.8 g/dL if you drive. If you’re over that limit, you’re considered to be “alcohol-impaired”.

    Alcohol Impairment >= 0.8 g/dL BAC

    However, the current limit is up for debate. There is evidence that driving impairment may occur at lower BACs. This article published in the British Medical Journal  challenges us to accept even this alcohol limit for drunk driving. The authors think that 0/8 g/dL is high, and it needs to be much lower.

    Also, there is a zero tolerance for alcohol levels in drivers who are minors, under the age of 21. You can find more info about the state policies on underage drinking and driving here. Zero tolerance is also required for operators of a commercial motor vehicle, school bus drivers, and child care vehicle drivers.

    Levels of alcohol impairment are determined by a driver’s BAC at the time of arrest.

    DUI vs. DWI

    Drunk driving is known as both DUI or DWI. Both acronyms describe the illegal act of operating a motor vehicle while alcohol and/or drugs impaired. The main difference lies in the meaning of the letters:

    • DUI= Driving Under the Influence
    • DWI= Driving While Intoxicated

    NOTE: In some states, the term ‘Driving While Intoxicated’ is referred to as “Operating While Intoxicated,” or OWI.

    These terms may sound identical, but some states classify these two conditions as separate crimes. If you live in a state that classifies them separately, a DUI is considered  a lesser level of impairment, and is charge more leniently than a DWI. In other jurisdictions, DUI is only used when the driver is alcohol-impaired, while DWI is only used when the driver is under the influence of drugs. Other states have created a zero tolerance policy which means that there is no distinction between DUI and DWI. These states mandate that any BAC over the legal limit is a crime.

    Drunk Driving Dangers

    Driving after drinking can cause direct harm and can end in death. Getting behind the wheel after few drinks can be dangerous not only to you, but also to the other drivers and pedestrians.

    Approximately one-third of all traffic crash fatalities in the U.S. involve a drunk driver.

    Roughly, over 10,000 people die every year due to driving under influence. But death is not the only danger that you are facing when DUI. Some legal consequences may include:

    … and more.

    Drunk Driving Accident Statistics

    Statistically speaking, young men aged 21 to 35 are the critical target group for drunk driving. They are most likely to drive drunk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that in 2010, 4 million U.S. adults reported that had at least one episode of drunk driving. 81% were men, and 32% were young men aged between 21 to 34.

    In 2016, more than 1 million drivers were arrested for DUI of alcohol or narcotics. To confirm these numbers, the Federal Bureau of Investigation found that in 2016, 1,017,808 drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, this is only 1% of the 111 million self-reported episodes of DUI among U.S. adults each year.

     

    Finally, the financial impact is devastating: impaired driving crashes costs our American society $44 billion annually.

    An estimated 28% of all traffic fatalities occur due to drunk driving.

    Drunk Driving Death & Fatalities Statistics

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported just over 10k fatalities in motor vehicle crashes involving drivers with BACs of 0.8 d/dL or higher in 2016. To put it another way, 28% of all traffic fatalities in 2016 were due to alcohol impairment.

    1 person dies every 50 minutes due to alcohol-impaired driving.

    The top 5 states with the highest number of drunk driving fatalities in 2016 included:

    • Texas 3,776
    • California 3,623
    • Florida 3,174
    • Georgia 1,554
    • North Carolina 1,450

    Check out all state statistics in this NHTSA pamphlet on Traffic Safety Facts.

    Moreover, this NHTSA report looks into the innocent victims of drunk driving accidents. In 2016, a total of 1,233 children were killed in motor vehicle crashes, and of these fatalities, 214 children died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes. 45% of the time, the child’s own driver was under the influence of alcohol.

    Also, CDC reports that from all motor vehicles deaths:

    • 1.3% were children aged 0 to 20 who died due to drunk driving.
    • 6.7% were young adults aged 21 to 35 who died due to drunk driving.
    • 3.1% were adults aged 35+ who died due to drunk driving.

    Men are more likely than women to be driving in fatal accidents. In 2016, 21% of males were drunk in these crashes, while only 14% were females.

    Find state-specific fact sheets made by CDC here.

    About one in three traffic deaths in the United States involves a drunk driver.

    You know what?

    This cause of these deaths is preventable.

    Indentify a designated driver or plan a safe way home when you plan to drink.

    Drunk Driving Laws

    Laws about drunk driving are set up differently by state. This is why penalties and sentences vary in every state. Commonly, laws involve a combination of the following:

    • Enormous fines
    • Jail time
    • Loss of your driving license
    • Mandated treatment

    For instance, in North Carolina, there are five levels of DWI misdemeanor:

    • Level I being the most serious with a fine up to $4,000 and a minimum jail sentence of 30 days to a maximum of two years.
    • Level V being the least serious with a fine up to $200 and a minimum jail sentence of 24 hours and a maximum of 60 days.

    Another example is California with fours days in jail for the first offense, 90 days for a second offense, and 120 days for a third offense. Texas mandates three days of jail for the first offense, 30 days for the second, and two years for the third.

    Moreover, vehicular assault or vehicular manslaughter brings severe outcomes in most of the states. For example, a person convicted of vehicular manslaughter may face anywhere from zero to 10 years in prison in California. This state recognizes two different charges: Gross Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated (facing 4-10 years in state prison), and Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated (up to one year in the county jail or about 16 months in the state prison).

    Additionally, different states are more or less aggressive in their DUI and DWI arrest quota. A collection of 2014 DUI arrest research reported the following results after one year of tracking:

    • California had 214,828 arrests
    • Florida had 61,852 arrests
    • New York had 25,169 arrests
    • Texas had 90,066 arrests.

    Consequences of Driving Drunk

    What’s the price for having few drinks on a night out and then driving?

    If you get arrested, some legal consequences may include:

    • Going to jail.
    • Going into court-ordered alcoholism treatment.
    • Losing the custody of your children.
    • Losing your driving license.
    • Losing your job.
    • Paying a fine.

    Moreover, if your DUI arrest is combined with a manslaughter conviction, some consequences include the loss of:

    • Custody of children, and parental rights.
    • Employment in certain fields.
    • Government financial aid for college.
    • Jury rights.
    • Professional practice licensing
    • Public housing benefits.
    • Traveling abroad rights.
    • Voting rights.

    Drunk Driving Help and Treatment

    During a DUI court hearing, the defendant will  usually be required to be evaluated by a qualified court-appointed counselor for an alcohol use disorder assessment. The job of the counselor is to review the court’s records, to conduct the screening process, and to appoint the appropriate alcohol treatment options.

    The counselor will take into account:

    • BAC at the time of arrest.
    • History of substance use treatment.
    • The alcohol-impaired offenses.
    • Possibility of other drug use.
    • Possibility of presence of any other mental health disorders.

    A treatment referral will be made of one or a combination of the following:

    1. Medical detox.
    2. Outpatient rehab program.
    3. Inpatient rehab program.
    4. Support groups.

    Once the counselor’s observation is completed, the judge can refer the convicted driver to a host of many rehab programs, starting from a few sessions to structured programs that can last several weeks or months. In some severe cases, the court can order the driver to an inpatient program, while in other cases, the court may appoint only local community services, such as Alcoholic Anonymous meetings. Also, the judge may put the driver on probation.

    Court-ordered alcohol rehab is a concern for its effectiveness. Is rehab effective when it isn’t voluntary? Many studies have well established that recovery and willingness to change must come from within the individual. However, the National Institute on Drug Abuse supports the fact that court-appointed rehab can outcome with as positive results as those who enrolled into rehab on their own. Also, the persons who enrolled into rehab under legal pressure have higher rates of attendance, and stay in rehab for longer period.

    Your Questions

    Did we answer all the questions you have about a DUI or DWI? If not, feel free to post your specific question in the comments section at the end. We will try to answer to all legitimate inquiries personally and promptly.

    Reference Sources: NCBI: The Effectiveness of Drinking and Driving Policies for Different Alcohol-Related Fatalities: A Quantile Regression Analysis 
    CDC: Sobering Facts: Drunk Driving State Fact Sheets
    NHTSA: Drunk Driving
    CDS: Impaired Driving: Get the facts
    US Department of Transportation: Drunk Driving By the Numbers 

    View the original article at

  • Alcohol Withdrawal and Detox

    Alcohol Withdrawal and Detox

    ARTICLE OVERVIEW: Alcohol withdrawal can be severe and very uncomfortable. Some symptoms, such as delirium tremens, can be dangerous or fatal. How do medical professionals treat withdrawal? We review here.

    TABLE OF CONTENT:

    Always seek medical help when you are alcohol dependent and want to quit drinking.

    Medical Detox, or Not?

    To begin, you may be wondering, “Do I need a detox clinic, or can I handle withdrawal on my own?”

    If you have become physically dependent on alcohol, you should always seek medical help when you’re ready to stop drinking.

    When it comes to treating alcohol dependence, you must be monitored 24-7. This is because severe symptoms can be triggered unpredictably, usually even a few days after your last drink. For example, seizures occur in about 25% of all withdrawal cases.  If symptoms are left untreated, you risk serious health complications or even death.

    Keep reading to learn more about common medical protocols during detox. Then, we invite your questions at the end. If you have any questions feel free to post them in the comment section below the text.

    Detox Protocols

    Detox protocols for alcohol withdrawal are often administered in inpatient rehab settings to patients under 24/7 medical supervision. Each stage builds upon the previous one. Main stages of detox and protocols include:

    1. Alcohol dependence assessment.

    Before you start detox, you will need to fill-out paper work to include insurance or payment information, personal and family history, and your complete medical history. You’ll also go through a full assessment, often an interview, or two. You can plan on blood and urine testing as wll. Moreover, the medical staff will complete physical and psychological evaluations. This stage is helpful to clinicians to plan the course of treatment and to have a baseline of data in the case that treatment requires adjustment.

    2. Supportive care.

    Clincial guides to alcohol withdrawal state that non-pharmacologic interventions are the first-line approach and, sometimes, the only approach required. A quiet room without dark shadows, bright lights, noises, and other excessive stimuli is recommended. Main supportive care for this time usually includes:

    • Frequent reassurance
    • Nursing care
    • Orientation to reality

    Also, detox clinics should provide routine examination of alcohol concentration in your system, complete blood count, renal function tests, electrolytes, glucose, liver enzymes, urinalysis and urine toxicology screening. General supportive care in a detox setting should aim to address fluid depletion, hypoglycemia and electrolytes disturbances. In these cases, treatments include hydration and vitamin supplementation. In particular, thiamine supplementation and B-complex vitamins (including folates) are essential for the prevention of Wernicke’s encephalopathy.

    3. Medications.

    Alcohol withdrawal can be hard to handle. During this stage, you will be under medical care. The acute detox period can last up to a week or longer.

    Alcohol dependence is usually treated with help of medications. The most commonly used are benzodiazepines. In fact, benzos represent the gold standard treatment for detox for their high rate of efficacy and proven ability to prevent the complicated forms of seizures or delerium tremens. Other medications used in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal include:

    • Acamprosate
    • Alpha2-agonists, beta-blockers and neuroleptics
    • Baclofen
    • Barbiturates and propofol
    • Carbamazepine
    • Gabapentin
    • Naltrexone
    • Sodium oxybate
    • Topirimate
    • Valproate

    Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

    Alcohol withdrawal is a set of symptoms that occur when an individual who is alcohol dependent cuts down own their drinking or stops drinking for good. It occurs because your brain and body have adopted to the presence of alcohol as normal. So, when you cut down or stop drinking, your body requires time to readjust.  It takes time for the brain’s chemistry to even out again.

    But, keep in time that withdrawal may be dangerous. The best and safest way to treat it is via constant medical care.

    Some of the most common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include:

    • Agitation.
    • Anxiety.
    • Depression.
    • Difficulty concentrating.
    • Disorientation.
    • Fatigue.
    • Headache.
    • Heightened.
    • Irritability.
    • Jumpiness or shakiness.
    • Mood swings.
    • Nausea.
    • Nightmares.
    • Sweating.
    • Tremors.
    • Vomiting.

    Delirium Tremens

    Delirium tremens (DT) is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal. According to this synopsis on delirium trements only a few, 3% to 5%, experience this form of withdrawal. Symptoms of DT usually happen as early as 48 to 96 hours after the last drink, and can last up to 5 days.

    Some of the symptoms include:

    • Autonomic hyperactivity
    • Agitation
    • Confusion
    • Increased heart rate
    • Instability
    • Hallucinations

    Delirium tremens was first recognized as disorder of excessive alcohol use in 1813, and it has an anticipated mortality of up to 37% without appropriate treatment.

    Delirium tremens could be fatal, so it is important to treat alcohol withdrawal under medical supervision.

    Protracted Withdrawal Symptoms

    Generally speaking, symptoms of alcohol withdrawal resolve within 5-14 days, but some of the symptoms may persist for weeks and months after the last use. This condition is know as post-acute or protracted withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). According to this SAMHSA’s advisory pamphlet protracted withdrawal is the presence of withdrawal symptoms beyond the general time period.

    Some protracted symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include:

    • Anxiety.
    • Depression.
    • Increased blood pressure and pulse.
    • Increased body temperature.
    • Increased breathing rate.
    • Reduced sexual interest
    • Sleep disruption.
    • Tremors.

    Duration of Withdrawal

    Usually, it takes about 5 to 14 days for symptoms of alcohol dependence to resolve. Still, the length of alcohol withdrawal is different for each individua. Final duration of time you’ll spend in detox depends upon several personal factors such as your:

    • Age.
    • Gender.
    • General health.
    • Level of dependence.
    • Amount of alcohol you were drinking.
    • Period of time you were drinking.

    Alcohol withdrawal is the worst in the first days after the last drink.

    The first symptoms of withdrawal usually start 6-14 hours after the last drink. In fact, the onset of detox appears once a person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level starts to decrease. Tremors or muscle shaking are known to be the first signs of withdrawal. Physical symptoms tend to subside sooner than psychological symptoms. These symptoms – often related to mood, sleep, or craving – may last for months or years after the last drink.

    However, withdrawal can be hard, severe, and in extreme cases fatal. So, don’t risk your life.

    Always seek medical help.

    Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline

    Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can be divided into three stages based on the severity of symptoms and time of their appearance. Below is a list of the most common symptoms with a timetable of their occurrence.

    Stage 1 (6 to 72 hours after the last drink)

    This is the period when the alcohol leaves the system. These initial withdrawal symptoms tend to be mild, and can last a few days or longer. The symptoms include:

    • Abdominal pain
    • Anxiety
    • Insomnia
    • Fever
    • Nausea
    • Restlessness
    • Tremors

    Stage 2 (2-5 days after the last drink)

    In this stage, you can expect more severe symptoms to appear such as:

    • Agitation
    • Autonomic instability
    • Confusion
    • Disorientation
    • Delirium tremens
    • Gross tremor
    • Hallucinations
    • Paranoia

    Stage 3 (5 to 14 days after the last drink)

    During this stage, the physical symptoms should resolve while the psychological may remain for longer period if not treated. Expect some of these symptoms to appear:

    • Brain fog
    • Depression
    • Mood swings
    • Nightmares
    • Nervousness
    • Shakiness

    Individuals who drink excessively for longer periods of time usually experience more intense symptoms than those who are only recently alcohol-dependent. You can find a detailed alcohol withdrawal timeline in our infographic here. This graph depicts the course of time during which alcohol withdrawal symptoms manifest, peak, and fade:

    Medications Used in Detox

    Alcohol withdrawal can be hard to deal with it. So, pharmacotherapy is often required. The most common medications used in alcohol detoxification process include:

    Acamprosate. This medicine addresses protracted withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, dysphoria, insomnia, and restlessness.

    Barbiturates: These medications were widely used to manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms, but today, the therapy with barbiturates is replaced with benzodiazepines.

    Benzodiazepines. Treating alcohol with benzodiazepines is one of the most common therapies for addressing withdrawal. It is th “gold standard”. In general, the treatment includes 3 days of long-acting benzodiazepine use on a fixed schedule. The most comonly used benzos include:

    • Ativan (lorazepam)
    • Librium (chlordiazepoxide)
    • Valium (diazepam)

    Naltrexone. This medication blocks the rewarding receptors in the brain by diminishing the pleasurable effects of alcohol.

    Treatment for Alcohol Addiction

    Drinking too much may cause serious problems to health, home, and social life. Admitting that you have a problem is the first step of your recovery. But, enrolling into rehab can help you restart your life. There are two main types of treatment programs for alcohol addiction: inpatient and outpatient.

    1. Inpatient treatment.

    This treatment requires living at a rehab facility for a certain period of time, and it is usually recommended for people who are diagnosed with moderate to severe levels of alcoholism. Inpatient treatment is also suitable for people who do not have a home support network. During treatment, you can expect 24/7 medical supervision, educational sessions, and talk therapy. Moreover, the daily regimen includes regular meal times, sleeping hours, and exercise. Finally, community support is fits in the whole process. Inpatient program can last 30, 60, or 90 days. In some cases, it can last up to a year or more.

    2. Outpatient treatment.

    This treatment offers the same services, except that patients don’t sleep at the facility. They come and go to the center for a few hours a day, several days weekly. During the time there, you will meet with an addiction counselor for individual therapy. Also, you will have group therapy and education sessions. This treatment is more flexible because you can stick with a normal routine. Outpatient programs can be adjusted in length and may be extended for a period of a few months or a year.

    Is treatment for alcohol use disorder helpful?

    The answer is yes, always yes!

    According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism most people with drinking problems can benefit from some form of treatment. About one-third of people who receive any treatment have no further symptoms one year later, while others substantially reduce their drinking.

    Moreover, alcohol treatment programs that are structured on evidence-based approaches are effective.

    So, don’t waste your time, admit that you have a drinking problem, and reach out for help! For more information, we recommend that you check out any of the following organizations:

    American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry
    401–524–3076
    American Society of Addiction Medicine
    301–656–3920 (ask for the phone number of your State’s chapter)
    NAADAC Substance Abuse Professionals
    1–800–548–0497
    National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
    301–443–3860
    Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator
    1–800–662–HELP

    OR, CALL OUR HELPLINE.

     

    1 in 18 people aged 12+ had alcohol use disorder in 2016.

     

    Reference sources: NIAAA: Complications of Alcohol Withdrawal
    NIAAA: Introduction to Alcohol Withdrawal
    Medline Plus: Alcohol withdrawal

    View the original article at

  • The Genetics of Alcoholism

    The Genetics of Alcoholism

    ARTICLE OVERVIEW: Scientists still have not identified the combination of genes thought to increase risk of alcohol problems. In this article, we outline the possible risk factors and share some tips on how to protect yourself if you are genetically predisposed to becoming an alcoholic. Then, we welcome your questions at the end.

    ESTIMATED READING TIME: 10 minutes.

    TABLE OF CONTENTS:

    Alcohol Addiction and Genetics

    Alcohol is the #1 drug in the world. It’s consumed everywhere, from places of work to places of worship. But what can be causing alcoholism? And do your genes have something to do with it?

    Maybe.

    Genes are passed on by our parents, and some of those genes contain predisposition towards alcohol use disorder (AUD) and alcoholism. But just how much those genes influence us is still up for debate. According to the study Genetics and Alcoholism alcoholism is a complex genetic disease, with variations in a large number of genes affecting risk. So, what puts some people more at risk than others?

    Most of us can see that alcohol use disorder run in some families. For example, if you have a drinking problem and create a Family Map, you can probably identify multiple people across many generations that also struggle with alcohol. Further, among people who drink too much, those who are genetically predisposed have a higher risk of developing alcohol use disorder.

    However, even though people can have ‘the alcoholic gene’, it doesn’t mean that they will become alcohol dependent. Social and environmental factors play a huge role in becoming an addict.

    In sum, it is true that our genetic structure determines human traits such as physical characteristics (eye and hair color) and behavioral characteristics, including aggression and depression. But the truth is that there are many factors that create the perfect environment for alcohol problems. And our genes DO NOT INFLUENCE US AS MUCH AS WE THINK.

    Main Genetic Studies

    It ihas been established that genetics is responsible for alcohol use disorder about 50% of the time. However, genetic expression is more complex field then we think. How genetic material can influence the ‘final product’ of one person is still unknown. So, what landmark studies back this up?

    There are numerous studies that work on identifying the genes that can lead to alcoholism. The DRD2 gene was the first gene that showed promise of revealing the connection of alcoholism and genetics. Also, researchers at  the University of California in San Francisco UCSF are studying the fruit flies to find the genetic traits of alcoholism claiming that drunken fruit flies behave in the same way humans do when they drink.

    According to this study funded by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), Genetic Research: Who Is At Risk for Alcoholism? researchers concluded that many twin, adoption, and family studies conclusively demonstrated that genetic factors account for 50 to 60 percent of the variance in risk for developing alcoholism.

    And to move the field forward, the NIAAA started the Collaborative Studies on Genetics of Alcoholism (COGA), a large–scale family study designed to identify genes that affect the risk for alcoholism and alcohol–related characteristics and behavior. COGA holds data on more than 2,255 extended families and more than 17,702 individuals that struggle with alcoholism.

    If you like to learn more about the main studies that contributed to this topic check out this collection of studies: A Brief History Of Research on the Genetics of Alcohol and Other Drug Use Disorders. 

    Certain combinations of genes that hold alcohol dependency material may increase your risk of developing alcoholism. 

    The “Alcoholic Gene”

    Do you believe that only one gene is responsible for inheriting alcoholism?

    You are wrong!

    There are hundreds of genes in one’s DNA that can increase the risk of developing an alcohol use disorder. Each gene plays a different role in your personal traits, and certain combinations of these genes may hold the key of alcoholism. The study Genes Contributed to The Development of Alcoholism claims that the genes most strongly implicated are those encoding the key enzymes of alcohol metabolism: ADHs and ALDHs.

    Moreover, COGA lists several genes that are connected to the development of alcoholism. These can include:

    DNA Regions with Susceptibility Genes. Genetic analysis has provided evidence that regions on 3 chromosomes contain genes that increase the risk for alcohol use disorder. Regions on chromosomes 1 and 7 have the strongest evidence, while regions on chromosome 2 have more modest evidence.

    DNA Regions with Protective Genes. In cases where one sibling is dealing with alcoholism while the other is nonalcoholic, there is an evidence of a protective gene found in the region of chromosome 4. This means that variants of a gene or genes in this region may reduce risk of becoming alcohol dependent.

    DNA Regions Related to Symptoms of Alcoholism. Signs and symptoms that are used to diagnose alcohol use disorder are very diverse, and range from biological symptoms to social symptoms. However, each individual who deals with AUD holds a unique set of symptoms. Therefore, a diagnose for AUD does not have a strict uniform phenotype. This fact complicates genetic analyses, but COGA researchers have created more defined phenotypes that are focused on the level of severity of alcoholism. These data provide evidence of DNA regions on chromosome 16 associated with higher risk for more severe drinking problems.

    DNA Regions Associated with Co–Occurring Disorders. Many people diagnosed with depression also develop alcoholism. Depression and alcoholism are linked to a gene/or genes found in the region of chromosome 1.

    DNA Regions Linked with Electrophysiological Measures. Reduced electrophysiological variables, such as EEGs (that measure brain activity) and ERPs (are brain waves elicited as a response to specific stimuli) seem to be a heritable phenotypes found in many cases of alcohol use disorder.

    Candidate Genes. Some genes encode components of various brain chemicals such as dopamine and serotonin that allow communication among cells. If some of these routes of communications are disturbed, the person may be prone to using substances.

    You can find more information on genes that put you at risk of becoming alcohol dependent here:

    Main Findings

    Just to clarify, there is still no clear evidence of what genes you need to have to be prone to becoming alcohol dependent. Specialists create theories that need to be more thoroughlt tested and elaborated upon. Additional work is required.

    All theories and studies into the genetics of alcoholism share a common finding: alcohol changes in an addict’s brain activity.

    Many substances affect the ‘reward circuit’ of the brain by releasing larger amounts of dopamine. This circuit regulates the ability to feel pleasure, and encourages a person to repeat the action that cause pleasure. If a person repeats the action over and over again, the brain starts to change, adopting the action as a normal and losing the ability to resist intense impulses (cravings).

    And it is this change in brain function that makes it difficult to quit drinking. Here’s an explanation from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) about how the brain responds to drugs like alcohol.

    Genetics are only 50% responsible for the development of an alcohol use disorder.

    Environment vs. DNA

    Only 10% of people who consume alcoholwill go one to develop physical or mental dependency on alcohol.

    So, how do genes affects alcohol addiction?

    Genetics only make up half of the whole alcohol problem. Environment plays a huge role in becoming dependent. For instance, some people cannot deal with stress, and are unable to cope with hard relationships or work. So, as a coping mechanism they choose drinking. Also, people who are exposed to substances for longer time, are more likelyto become dependent. Moreover, a traumatic event may be the cause for one individual to turn to alcohol.

    Some of the numerous environmental factors can include:

    • Attitudes and beliefs.
    • Bad parenting.
    • Culture background.
    • Financial status.
    • Life qualities.
    • Physical abuse.
    • Peer pressure.
    • School factors.
    • Sexual abuse.

    … and many more.

    The SAMHSA’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health report of 2016 estimated that 15.1 million people aged 12 or older had alcohol use disorder in the previous year. This means that 1 in 18 Americans had drinking problems. But, can we blame genetics for all these cases?

    Of course not.

    If you are genetically prone to developing alcohol use disorder, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you will become an alcoholic. As you begin to understand the genetics of addiction … you need to know that alcoholism is not an inevitability. Having genetic predisposition to alcohol problems simply means that you are at higher risk of a problem. And while drinking begins as a choice, many studies suggest that alcoholism is largely connected with an individual’s control.

    So, the choice to raise a glass is yours. You make the decision to try alcohol, or not. Even though you may hold a high genetic risk of AUD, most people are first driven to try alcohol by a nonhereditary factor, which is usually environmental in nature. Here’s a diagram of the relationship between genes and environment that might provide you with a visual aid to understand the interplay:

    Alcoholism Genetic Risk Factors

    Many factors play a role in developing a drinking problem. These factors interact differently for different people. So, the same factors might lead to alcoholism in some, and not in others. The risk factors are divided into two categories:

    External factors:

    • Age
    • Cultural norms
    • Education
    • Employment status
    • Environment
    • Family
    • Social norms
    • Religion

    Internal factors:

    • Drinking history
    • Genetics
    • Personality
    • Personal choice
    • Psychological conditions

    For example, findings published by the NIAAA show that children of alcoholics are about four times more likely to develop alcoholism than the general population. These children are also at high risk for many other behavioral and emotional problems. Genes are not the only factor in these cases, how alcoholic parents act and treat their children play a huge role in developing drinking problems. Some aspects that may increase the risk for alcoholism include:

    • An alcoholic parent is depressed or has other psychological issues.
    • Both parents drink alcohol and/or use other substances.
    • Conflicts because of alcohol use lead to aggression and violence in the family.
    • Parent’s alcohol use is severe.

    To repeat, a combination of these risk factors may be the cause of alcohol use disorder for some, but not for others. This fact makes it difficult to predict who might become alcoholic, and who will not.

    Avoiding a Problem

    So, how can you protect yourself from a drinking problem? How can you avoid alcoholism if it runs in your family? The first thing you need to do in order to protect yourself is to learn your family history regarding alcoholism. Make a Family Map with an addiction counselor or other behavioral health professional…or you can learn how to make a family map here.

    If you are among millions of people who have a parent, grandparent, or other close relative with drinking problems, there is a way to protect yourself by lowering these risks:

    Avoid underage drinking. Underage drinking is illegal at the first place. Second, studies show that the risk of developing alcohol use disorder is higher among people who started drinking at early age.

    Drink in moderation. Adults who choose to drink should drink in moderation. Not only because of the risk of alcoholism, but also because alcohol may cause many health problems.

    Consult with a health care professional. Never hesitate to ask for help! Discuss your issues with professionals. They can help you find a suitable treatment or groups that can help you manage your alcohol problems.

    The good news? Many children of alcoholics do not develop drinking problems. Awareness and action are key!

    What’s Your Risk of Alcoholism?

    Do you think that you may be at risk of developing alcohol use disorder? How can you be sure? The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism outlines general guidelines.

    For women, problem drinking is:

    • Drinking more that 1 standard drink daily.
    • Drinking more than 7 drinks weekly.
    • Drinking more than 3 drinks on any single day.

    For men, problem drinking is::

    • Drinking more than 2 drinks daily.
    • Drinking more than 14 drinks weekly.
    • Drinking more than 4 drinks on any single day.

    Moreover, there are also two ‘at-risk’ drinking patterns that can lead to alcohol use disorders:

    1. Binge drinking – It is a drinking pattern that levels up the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 0.8 g/dl or above, which is usually happening after 4 drinks for women, and 5 drinks for men in a one drinking session of about 2 hours.

    2. Heavy drinking is a binge drinking on 5 or more days in one month period.

    Did you find yourself in some of these patterns?

    Don’t wait until it’s too late, reach out for help!

    Top 10 Alcohol and Genetics Facts

    If drinking problems run in you family, don’t worry… It doesn’t mean that you will become addicted to alcohol. After all, even though you may have the ‘alcoholic gene’, alcoholism does not need to be your destiny. You are just at risk.

    Below is a list of 10 facts about alcohol and genetics:

    1. Genetics is about 50% responsible for developing alcohol use disorder.
    2. One gene is not responsible for causing alcohol problems. A certain combination of hundreds of genes in individual’s DNA can increase the risk of developing alcoholism.
    3. Having the ‘alcohol gene’ doesn’t mean that you will become an alcoholic.
    4. Children with an alcoholic parent are four times more likely to develop alcohol use disorder.
    5. Only 10% of people who drink become alcoholics.
    6. Even though you may begenetically predisposed to alcoholism,your choice to try alcohol in the first place is usually triggered by envinronmental factors.
    7. A combination of external and internal factors may lead to drinking problems.
    8. Environmental factors play a huge role in developing alcoholism.
    9. Drinking excessively over a long period of time puts you at higher risk of a drinking problem, even if you are not genetically predisposed to alcohol use disorder.
    10. Scientists still haven’t identified which genes are responsible for increasing the risk of developing alcohol use disorder.

    Reference sourses: NIAAA: Genetics of Alcohol Use Disorder
    NIAAA: A Family History of Alcoholism
    NIAAA: Collaborative Studies on Genetics of Alcoholism – Study
    NCBI: Genetics and Alcoholism 
    NCBI: Genetic factors influencing alcohol dependence

    View the original article at

  • Alcoholism Causes and Risk Factors

    Alcoholism Causes and Risk Factors

    ARTICLE OVERVIEW: Many risk factors contribute to a drinking problem. We review the major ones, starting with psychological and then looking at genetic and cultural factors.

    ESTIMATED READING TIME: 5-10 minutes

    TABLE OF CONTENTS:

    Causes of Alcoholism

    Alcoholism is also known as “alcohol use disorder” (AUD). It is a chronic brain disease that can impact anyone no matter the gender, age, ethnicity, personality, nor body type. Everyone is at risk. But how does alcoholism begin?

    A drinking problem doesn’t usually happen over night. Most cases develop gradually over a period of time. While it can sometimes develop quickly and aggressively, an AUD usually takes a longer period to develop. According to SAMHSA’s national survey on drug use and health,over 15 million Americans aged 12 or older had an alcohol use disorder in 2016. What are the causes for this difficult disease?

    There is no fixed formula for the onset of an AUD. Many studies has shown that alcoholism is influenced by a variety of factors. These factors interact differently in each person causing alcohol disorder in some, and not in others. The risk factors can be divided into two categories:

    External factors:

    • Age
    • Cultural norms
    • Education
    • Employment status
    • Environment
    • Family
    • Social norms
    • Religion

    Internal factors:

    • Drinking history
    • Genetics
    • Personality
    • Personal choice
    • Psychological conditions

    The numerous risk factors make it impossible to predict whether any person will develop alcohol use disorder. They just increase the chance that a person will develop this disorder. Even if you have some of the risks factors it doesn’t mean that you will become an alcoholic.

    But, regardless of when the drinking problems start or what caused them, there are many options for treatment that can help you get back your life on track. Do not waste time, reach out for help as soon as possible.

    Psychological Factors

    People with certain psychological conditions are at higher risk of developing alcohol use disorder. Many people with psychological disorders turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism for their disorder. For instance, individuals with depression claim that alcohol elevates their mood, while those with schizophrenia claim that drinking quiets down the voice in their head. One study published in the journal BioMed Central estimated that:

    • More than 40% of people with bipolar disorder can develop a drinking problem.
    • More than 45% of people diagnosed with schizophrenia can develop a drinking problem.
    • More than 25% of people with major depression can develop a drinking problem.
    • More than 80% of people with anti-social personality disorder can develop a drinking problem.

    Personality Factors

    Person’s personality is clearly associated with drinking patterns. There are many theoretical models showing connection between effects of personality on alcohol use and its problems.

    Indeed, some personalities are more prone to developing alcohol use disorder than others. Numerous studies show links between specific personality traits and alcohol abuse. Some of the most common traits related to alcohol abuse include a person’s impulsiveness/ disinhibition and these five traits:

    • Agreeableness.
    • Conscientiousness.
    • Extraversion.
    • Neuroticism.
    • Openness to experience.

    Still, a recent meta-analysis suggests that among the five-factor traits only low conscientiousness, low agreeableness, and high neuroticism are significantly linked to alcohol use disorder.

    In sum, there are numerous theoretical models with varying degrees of empirical support whose goal is to answer the question how and why certain personality develop drinking problems. Keep in mind that these models are neither all-inclusive nor mutually exclusive. Check out this illustration of multiple pathways related to personality that show alcohol use disorder might develop:

    Personal Choice Factors

    The personal choice to start drinking is a risk factor of developing alcohol dependence. For example, an individual who has decided that they will never have a drink, can obviously not develop an AUD. Also, people who choose to avoid social situations where drinking occurs heavily, are less likely to develop dependence.

    On the contrary, people who love to socialize with few drinks, are more prone to developing alcoholism.

    Whether you are at risk of developing alcohol use disorder or not, the choice to try alcohol is yours. You make the decision to try it or not.

    Drinking History Factors

    An individual’s drinking history plays an important part of developing alcohol use disorder. People who started drinking at early age, and continue into their adulthood are at high risk of becoming alcohol dependent.

    Also, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism lists few drinking patterns that show drinking problems:

    For women, problem drinking is:

    • Drinking more that 1 standard drink daily.
    • Drinking more than 7 drinks weekly.
    • Drinking more than 3 drinks on any single day.

    For men, problem drinking is:

    • Drinking more than 2 drinks daily.
    • Drinking more than 14 drinks weekly.
    • Drinking more than 4 drinks on any single day.

    Binge drinking, by definition is a drinking pattern that builds up the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 0.8 g/dL or more. This usually happens after 4 drinks for women, and 5 for men in one drinking session. Heavy drinking is a binge drinking on 5+ days in a period of one month.

    Even though a person may have a genetic predisposition to developing alcohol use disorder, it doesn’t mean that they will become alcoholic.

    Genetic Factors

    NIAAA’s genetic research shows that genetic factors account for 50 to 60 percent of the variance in risk for developing alcohol use disorder. Moreover, children of alcoholic parents have an approximately four times greater risk of becoming alcoholic themselves.

    Still, there is no empirical data that identifies what genes are responsible for increasing the risk of becoming alcohol dependent.  However, there are many genes in person’s DNA that can increase the risk of becoming alcohol dependent. A combination of these genes with personality traits, and various environmental factors may have the key of alcoholism. Check out this diagram to help you see the relationship between genes and environment of developing AUD:

    Familial Factors

    If alcoholism runs in your family, the risk of developing alcohol use disorder is higher that for someone who does not have a family history of AUD. Growing up around a parent who struggles with alcohol problems may change your perspective: you may see drinking as normal, and fall victim to bad habits, or learn the negative effects of alcohol, and never touch it.

    Even though genetics and familial (heredity) are closely linked, there is a difference when discussing genetic versus familial diseases:

    • A person with genetic disease has abnormality in their genome.
    • A person with a familial disease has received a genetic mutation from their parents’ DNA.

    Environmental Factors

    Environment has a huge impact on becoming alcohol dependent. How? For example, if a person cannot cope with stress, they might choose drinking as a way to deal with the stress. Moreover, if an individual has experienced a traumatic event, the chances to turn to drinking are enormous.

    Some of the many environmental factors related to alcoholism include:

    • Attitudes.
    • Bad parenting.
    • Beliefs.
    • Culture.
    • Financial power.
    • Lifestyle.
    • Physical abuse.
    • Peer pressure.
    • Sexual abuse.

    Religious Factors

    Every religion has a different view towards alcohol use. Islam promotes total abstinence, while Catholicism have integrated alcohol use into some religious ceremonies. One study published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependency showed that individuals who viewed their religion as promoting abstinence were less likely to develop alcohol dependence. Also, drinking was highly associated with person’s religious commitment: if the religion promoted abstinence the percentage of reduced drinking was higher.

    Moreover, the U.S. National Alcohol Survey showed diverse patterns of abstention and drinking that shows that religion is important for drinking behaviors.

    Social and Cultural Factors

    Alcohol use varies across gender and ethnicity. Worldwide, men drink more than women. According to the 2013 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, American men drink more than women:

    • Regular drinking: 56% vs. 47%
    • Binge drinking: 30% vs. 16%
    • Heavy drinking: 9% vs. 3%.

    Among ethnic and racial groups, Caucasians report the highest rate of alcohol use among people aged 12+, while American Indian/Alaska Natives report the highest rate of binge drinking. Moreover, this SAMHSA’s report shows the following rate on demographics and addiction rates:

    • American Indian/Alaska Native: 14.9%
    • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 11.3%
    • Hispanic: 8.6%
    • Caucasian: 8.4%
    • African American: 7.4%
    • Asian: 4.6%

    Additionally, this analysis show that there are many underlying social and cultural factors contributing to the numbers above. For instance, people with high socioeconomic status tend to drink more frequently than others, while people with low socioeconomic status tend to drink in larger quantities of alcohol.

    On the other hand, cultural norms play a huge role in developing AUD. African Americans and Latinos report more conservative claims towards alcohol use compared with Whites. However, some studies have found out that drinking problems differ across Latino subgroups, such as higher rates of alcohol use disorder among Mexican-American and Puerto Rican men compared with Cuban Americans and Central and South Americans. As a cultural norm, machismo, which is a cultural influence for many generations of Latino male identity, suggest that Latino men attempt to appear strong and masculine because of cultural values, and drinking huge amounts of alcohol is one of the ways to show masculinity. On the contrary, Asians are believed to have higher abstention rates.

    Also, alcohol consumption can be linked to a complex array of factors overlapping with each other, ranging from individual to cultural and societal factors. High social status suggest that social networks and connection influence overall health. For example, people who have higher levels of social support are thought to be healthier because they have better links and access to health services, and greater financial support.

    Finally, this NIAAA pamphlet shows that the Native American population have a 60 percent lifetime prevalence rate for the development of alcohol use disorders and alcohol dependence.

    Read this study Social and Cultural Contexts of Alcohol Use published in the journal Alcohol Research: Current Reviews to find more social and cultural risk factors including:

    • Discrimination factors.
    • Immigration factors.
    • Community factors.
    • Societal Influences (advertising, marketing, and social media).

    Age Factors

    One of the important risk factors for developing alcoholism is the age when you start drinking. The earlier a person starts to drink, the bigger the chances are they continue to drink in future. Also, regular drinking increases the risk of developing alcohol use disorder.

    Even though it is illegal to drink before 21, many teenagers consume alcohol around 13 to 15 years old. According to this survey:

    • 26% of 8th graders reported drinking in the past month.
    • 40% of 10th graders reported drinking in the past month.
    • 51% of the 12th graders reported drinking in the past month.

    Moreover, binge drinking is a popular pattern among youngsters.

    Drinking at an early age increase the risk of alcohol abuse, but alcoholism as a disease doesn’t spare anyone. It can affect anyone at any age.

    Educational Factors

    According to this study, education levels affect your risk of a drinking problem. Individuals who dropped out from high school were about 6 times more to develop alcohol problems, while college dropouts were 3 times more to become alcohol dependent.

    Career Factors

    Careers can be exhausting, and many individuals seek coping mechanism in drinking. High levels of stress, long working hours, and strenuous tasks are only few factors that may produce negative effect on the person.

    According to this CBHSQ Report, 8.7 % of full-time workers aged 18 to 64 drank heavily in the past month. The highest rate of drinking was noticed in mining (17.5%) and construction industry (16.5%).

    How Alcoholism Risk Factors Affect Treatment and Relapse

    All risk factors for developing alcohol dependence affect the treatment on many levels. For example,

    • This study published in the Journal of Ethnicity in Substance Abuse found that Spanish speaking individuals are less likely to perceive a need for treatment and seek treatment services than the general public. Also, women face more barriers to access substance abuse treatment, and are less likely to seek help.
    • According to NIAAA, women tend to seek help in mental health or primary care settings rather than in specialized programs.
    • People with stressful and high-end professions may consider addiction as shame and stigma, while people that are uninsured or have low income may have troubles finding treatment to their standard.
    • Moreover, depression is a major trigger for relapse. But, relapsing does not mean that you have failed. Relapse means that you need to reevaluate your treatment, and find the one that fits your needs. Also relapse makes you aware of the triggers around you.

    However, treatment works!

    Evidence-based treatment that is customized by the needs of the patient is overwlehmingly successful. NIAAA has found that about one-third of people who are treated for alcohol problems have no further symptoms a year later, while many others have reduced their drinking habits.

    So, don’t put life on hold. Gelp help! Or, seek help for a loved one.

    The time to act is now.

    Reference sources: NCBI: The Multiple, Distinct Ways that Personality Contributes to Alcohol Use Disorders
    NCBI: Genetic factors influencing alcohol dependence
    NCBI: Religion and alcohol in the U.S. National Alcohol Survey

    View the original article at

  • Alcohol and the Liver

    Alcohol and the Liver

    ARTICLE OVERVIEW: Heavy drinking can result in serious alcoholic liver diseases including cirrhosis, hepatitis, fatty liver, and even cancer. But, liver damage can be reversed. How? We review here.  If you have additional questions, feel free to post them in the comments section at the end.

    TABLE OF CONTENTS:

    What is Liver Damage?

    The meaty, reddish-brown organ known as the liver has a huge role in filtering the blood, and is active in digesttion, absorbtion, and the processing of food. Moreover, it detoxifies chemicals or toxins that make their way into our bodies, and metabolizes drugs. How does alcohol cause liver damage?

    Alcohol stays in the bloodstream until it is metabolized by the liver, during which it can do much harm to this organ.

    Let’s explain the process a little more clearly. The liver can metabolize a certain amount of alcohol at any given time, But if you drink excessively, chronically, or too quickly, your liver cells struggle to process it. This can result in developing serious alcoholic liver diseases such as:

    • Alcoholic hepatitis
    • Cirrhosis
    • Fatty liver

    Alcohol liver disease is the development of liver damage as a result of heavy drinking.

    Risk Factors

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention there are 4.9 million adults diagnosed with liver disease, while just over 21K people died from alcoholic liver disease. So, who is at risk of developing liver disease?

    Typically, most heavy drinkers develop serious alcoholic liver disease. This is why alcohol consumption accounts for approximately 3.8% of all global deaths and 4.6% of global disability-adjusted life-years. Further, people who drink excessively are at a higher risk of developing an alcoholic liver disease. Those who do not follow the guidelines on standard drinking are directly exposed to liver diseases, which may have a fatal outcome.

    MedlinePlus reports that liver trouble is common in people between 40 and 50 years old, and men are more likely than women to develop liver disease. Keep in mind that women are not immune to alcoholic liver disease. In fact, they can develop this condition after less exposure to alcohol than men.

    Metabolism

    The liver is a filter of the human body: it breaks down and gets rid of harmful substances in the body. The liver further transforms vitamins, nutrients, and medicines into substances needed by the body. So, just how is alcohol metabolized in the liver?

    90% of alcohol is metabolized in the liver by oxidation via action of the enzyme called “alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH)”, while less than 10% is eliminated in breath, sweat, and urine. Alcohol is absorbed into the system more rapidly than it is metabolized, and this is the reason why alcohol levels build up in the body. In fact, one unit of alcohol stays in the body up to 2 hours after being consumed. This time frame increases with each drink. The higher the blood alcohol concentration, the longer it takes to process alcohol.

    How Alcohol Affects the Liver

    But the liver can only process a certain amount of alcohol at a time. So, when someone drinks too much, the alcohol that is unprocessed circulates through the bloodstream.

    Q: How much alcohol does it take to damage the liver?
    A: The amount of damage that alcohol causes depends on the drinker and individual factors.

    Experts know that heavy drinking (as well as chronic drinking) destroys liver cells, causing serious damages such as cirrhosis, alcoholic hepatitis, and the cellular mutation that leads to liver cancer. So, the American College of Gastroenterology has set out guidelines that state: “Prolonged abstinence is the most effective strategy to prevent disease progression.”

     

    Alcohol and Cancer

    Can alcohol cause liver cancer?

    YES!

    Drinking too much alcohol regularly can damage the liver, leading to scarring and inflammation, which also raises the risk of developing liver cancer. According to this NIAAA’s synopsis on alcohol liver diseases, people with alcohol-related cirrhosis are at much higher risk for development of liver cancer.

    Hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer) is the eighth most frequent cancer worldwide, accounting for approximately 500,000 deaths annually.

    How does alcohol cause liver cancer?

    Alcohol is converted in our bodies into the toxic chemical, acetaldehyde. This toxin can cause cancer by damaging DNA and stopping cells from repairing liver damage. Also, it makes liver cells grow faster than usual, and these cells are more likely to pick up changes in their genes. This is why the International Agency for Research for Cancer has classified acetaldehyde together with alcohol use as carcinogenic for people.

     

    However, scientists are still limited in their understanding. Even though there is much plausible evidence, the mechanisms about how alcohol causes carcinogenic effect have not been defined in depth.

    Alcohol and Cirrhosis

    One of the most serious alcohol liver diseases is cirrhosis. This disease replaces normal liver tissue with scar tissue, disrupting blood flow, and preventing the liver from working properly.

    Signs of cirrhosis include:

    • Abnormal accumulation of fat in normal liver cells.
    • Liver enlargement or inflammation.
    • Redness of the palms caused by capillary dilation.
    • Shortening of muscles in the fingers caused by toxic effects or fibrous changes.
    • Thickening and widening of the fingers and nails.
    • White nails.

    Why does alcohol cause liver cirrhosis?

    Currently, there are no empirical studies that adequately explain why and how alcohol consumption causes cirrhosis. Regardless, the correlation between drinking and this disease is strong. Our federal institute of health reports that between 40% to 90% of the 26,000 annual deaths from cirrhosis are alcohol-related.

    Even further, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) reports that about 10% to 15% of people diagnosed with alcohol use disorder develop cirrhosis, and many are unaware that they have it. In fact, about 30%-40% of the cases with cirrhosis are diagnosed at autopsy. Moreover, the NIAAA states that 5-year survival rate of people with cirrhosis is about 90% for those who stopped drinking, while it is 70% of those who didn’t stop drinking.

    Symptoms of Liver Disease

    Some common early symptoms of liver disease include:

    • Abdominal pain.
    • Appetite loss, and weight loss
    • Energy loss.
    • Small, red spider-like blood vessels on the skin.

    As the function of the liver worsens, more serious symptoms take place:

    • Abdomen swelling.
    • Dark urine.
    • Discolored stool.
    • Confusion and problem thinking.
    • Itchy skin.
    • Fatigue.
    • Leg swelling.
    • Nausea and/or vomiting.
    • Readiness on the palms.
    • Unusual bruising.
    • Yellowish skin and eyes.

    Diagnosis of alcoholic liver disease is made with biopsies, but laboratory tests can help too. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult with a physician ASAP.

    Can the Damage Be Reversed?

    The only organ in the body that has the ability to regenerate its damaged tissue with new cells is the liver.  So, most people want to know, “Can alcoholic liver damage be reversed?”

    Yes, liver damage can be reversible… if you stop drinking.

    One study on alcohol-related cirrhosis found that alcohol abstinence is a key factor in the survival rate, even in the most severe cases. Its findings show that abstinence from alcohol at one month after diagnosis of cirrhosis was one of the most important factors determining survival: 7-year survival of 72% of people who stopped drinking in comparison with 44% of people who continue to drink.

    However, the liver may get overwhelmed, and it can lose the function to repair itself completely. This usually happens if it is still “under attack” from drug use, continued drinking, or a virus. In these cases, a scar tissue develops, which becomes difficult to reverse.

    Lifestyle changes can support the liver more than you think. You can start taking care of yourself (and your liver) with these simple life changes:

    • Stop drinking.
    • Eat a healthy diet low in salt.
    • Consult regularly with a healthcare provider.

    While there is no safe amount of alcohol beverage to consume, many reputable sources report that if you drink in moderation (one drink per day for women, and two for men) you will do less harm to the liver. But, liver disease due to alcohol consummation is avoidable. Why drink, and put yourself at risk, when you can do more for your health?

    The best way to take care of your liver is to stop drinking.

    Treatment for Alcoholism

    If you are struggling with liver disease, alcohol addiction can be trated. In these cases, it is important to find evidence-based treatment for alcoholism. There are two main types of alcohol rehab programs: inpatient and outpatient.

    Inpatient treatment provides constant medial care and supervision because patients live at the facility. This type of treatment is designed to help people with moderate to severe addictions. Some of the services include:

    • Detox services.
    • Educational classes.
    • Group therapy.
    • Individual therapy.
    • Medication and medical support.

    Outpatient treatment provides similar services, but patients do not live at the facility. They visit the rehab center for few hours at day, several days weekly. This treatment is designed for people who are willing to change, have mild cases of addiction, and have emotional support from loved ones at home.

    If you have drinking problems, don’t wait. Seek help as soon as possible. We can help, you only need to reach out. Feel free to leave us a question at the end…or give us a call.

    Reference sources: NCBI: Pathophysiology and Management of Alcoholic Liver Disease
    NIAAA: The Epidemiology of Alcoholic Liver Disease
    NIH: Exploring Alcohol’s Effects on Liver Function 
    NCBI: The Burden of Cancer Attributable to Alcohol Consumption
    NCBI: Alcohol Metabolism 
    NCBI: Reversal of liver cirrhosis: current evidence and expectations

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