Getting help for an alcohol use disorder starts with the individual. All forms of addiction treatment require a change in behavior and habits, which is difficult for anyone to do. Plus, because many people who have alcohol use disorder are self-medicating to cope with trauma and loss, grief, or to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, or another mental illness, lasting sobriety involves addressing the reasons why people drink.
But, if you’re on this page, then you’re probably taking the first steps toward getting help for your drinking. You’re curious about options for you and how to get started.
Will My Insurance Cover Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment?
Many people may be afraid to seek treatment because they aren’t sure how to pay for it. Some programs for alcoholism, like Alcoholics Anonymous and other group step-based programs, are free for anyone who wants to seek help for themselves.
However, some people may have a serious physical dependence on alcohol and need medical oversight to detoxify their body from alcohol. Other people may have tried quitting before, and failed, so they are seeking more intensive treatment than a 12-step program.
Check with your insurance company to see what kind of rehabilitation and mental health services they offer and if they will cover medication that can help you with your alcohol use disorder.
Do I Need a Medical Detox?
Quitting alcohol “cold turkey” or suddenly stopping drinking can be dangerous for your health and even deadly. People who drank for a long period of time, or were heavy binge drinkers, may suffer delirium tremens, which are severe alcohol withdrawal that includes shaking hands, hallucinations, and possibly complete cardiac collapse.
Medically supervised detox safely weans you off alcohol physically, managing your withdrawal and ensuring that medical help is close by in case of an emergency. A physical evaluation will determine whether you need this process. However, you may wish to have medically supervised detox, as some therapy providers or psychiatrists who can prescribe you medications to ease your cravings may not prescribe the medication until you’re physically detoxed.
Inpatient Therapy, Outpatient Therapy, or 12-Step Program?
The type of therapy you need depends on how severe your addiction is and on what is most effective for your personality and comfort level. Some people may enjoy the group accountability model of AA or SMART Recovery, while others benefit more from individual addiction therapy or small group counseling. If you are concerned about your ability to stay sober at home, an inpatient program may be better for you.
Do I Need Medication For My Alcohol Use Disorder?
Alcohol cravings can be very powerful and, in stressful situations, can derail someone’s sobriety. There are a couple of medications that can help with alcohol abuse. Naltrexone is a daily pill that works by suppressing alcohol cravings. Antabuse is a medication that negates the intoxicating effects of alcohol, meaning that you may drink but never “get a buzz.” Without the mind-altering effect of alcohol, many people simply stop drinking. In addition, Antabuse can make someone quite ill when they drink, a further deterrent.
Are You Seeking Help For Alcohol Addiction?
If you’re worried about your drinking, there is hope and help. Hickory Treatment Centers provides medical detox and several levels of addiction treatment for people just like you. Contact us today for a confidential assessment and to talk more about your options.
