These changes take place in brain circuits involved in pleasure, learning, stress, decision-making and self-control. The problem is the alcoholic’s mental obsession with alcohol is much more subtle than a song playing in one’s mind. All they know is there is a sudden urge for a drink, a physical compulsion.
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Social drinking may why is alcoholism considered a chronic disease escalate to more frequent consumption, and individuals may start to drink alone or in secret. AlcoholAwareness.org is dedicated to providing support and resources for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. We aim to raise awareness, offer guidance, and connect people with recovery programs to help them regain control and improve their lives.
Chronic Phase: The Pinnacle of Addiction
Initially, society viewed alcoholism through a lens of judgment, but as research sheds light on the biological and genetic factors at play, perceptions changed. The Disease Model of Alcoholism represents a major change in the way we view and treat alcohol addiction. Instead of thinking of alcoholism as just a sign of bad choices or a lack of moral strength, we now see it as a long-term health problem. This big shift started in the middle of the 20th century, thanks to new medical studies and changes in society’s attitudes. Medically managed withdrawal or detoxification can be safely carried out under medical guidance. Medications, such as benzodiazepines, are given to help control withdrawal symptoms.
Why Is Alcoholism Considered a Chronic Disease?
An alcohol use disorder will actually change the way the pathways of communication in your brain work. It tends to persist, relapse can occur, and it requires ongoing management—much like asthma or diabetes. Support, therapy, and lifestyle change help people maintain long‑term https://ecosoberhouse.com/ recovery. Understanding that alcoholism is a progressive disease helps families and individuals make sense of what they’re seeing. It explains why “just cutting back” often doesn’t work and why professional care is so important. At Hope Harbor Wellness in Atlanta, GA, we meet people every day who believed they could manage this alone—until alcohol started managing them.
- In conclusion, alcoholism is a chronic disease that requires ongoing management and treatment.
- There is often a lack of understanding about alcohol dependency, leading to misconceptions and judgment towards those affected by it.
- Call us today and connect with someone who can refer you to an appropriate treatment program near you.
- Denial is a common issue in AUD, often preventing individuals from recognizing their problem.
- Children of alcoholics may also experience long-term psychological and emotional problems, including anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.
- This stage is marked by the individual drinking to avoid withdrawal symptoms, rather than for pleasure or social reasons.
Factors Contributing to Chronicity
Alcoholism not only affects the individual who drinks but also impacts their loved ones and society as a whole. Finally, it is important to recognize that this telephone-based protocol is not a stand-alone treatment that can be provided instead of clinic-based care. Rather, the protocol is designed to augment and extend treatment following a more intensive Sober living home intervention. A relatively novel approach to continuing care of alcohol and other drug (AOD)-dependent patients that is aimed at increasing treatment participation by reducing the burden for patients is telephone-based counseling.
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- It is also a relapsing disease, which means that even if an individual stops drinking for a period of time, they may still struggle with cravings and potentially relapse back into unhealthy drinking.
- Attempts to stop are uncomfortable, and sometimes painful, because the body has adapted to alcohol’s presence.
- This condition has been surrounded by stigma and has a large impact on a person’s career, social life, and emotional relationships.
- Behavioral therapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing, is crucial in treating alcohol dependency.
Overcoming the challenges in treatment requires dedication, support, and addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. With effective treatment plans, individuals can navigate the path to recovery and rebuild their lives free from alcohol dependence. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism more than one-third (35.9 percent) of U.S. adults with alcohol dependence (alcoholism) that began more than one year ago are now in full recovery. This model has significantly influenced the treatment options, paving the way for strategies that include medical interventions, psychological support, and lifestyle adjustments. Viewing alcoholism as a disease means treatments are more holistic, focusing not just on stopping alcohol use but also on healing the individual physically and emotionally.
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If you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, it is important to seek professional help to manage the condition and prevent relapse. Understanding the chronic nature of alcoholism and embracing the need for ongoing management and support is key to achieving and maintaining sobriety. By adopting this perspective, individuals in recovery can take control of their journey, build a strong support system, and lead fulfilling lives free from the grip of alcohol addiction.
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Preventative strategies and education are crucial in mitigating the risks of alcoholism. Education on the dangers of excessive drinking and the benefits of moderation can empower individuals to make informed choices. Initiatives such as school-based programs and community workshops can play a significant role in prevention. The journey towards recovery from alcoholism is seldom a solitary one. Family and community play a pivotal role in providing the support and encouragement necessary for individuals to seek and sustain treatment.
Alcoholism is widely recognized as a chronic disease, which means it is characterized by long-lasting and persistent symptoms. Several factors contribute to the chronicity of alcoholism, including biological, psychological, and social factors. Because AUD is a disease, medical and therapeutic interventions should be prioritized in treatment. Many treatment programs incorporate medication-assisted therapies, such as naltrexone, which can help reduce cravings and block the pleasurable effects of alcohol.
