Alcohol
Alcohol Treatment
Alcohol is the most commonly abused psychoactive substance in our society. Although alcohol is a depressant, its initial effect is an apparent stimulation. Experiencing a feeling of well-being and reducing inhibitions.
Signs and Symptoms
According to the DSM 5, alcohol use disorder can be classified into 3 severity levels ranging from mild, moderate to severe. Overall, 11 factors are taken into consideration to address both physical and psychological components to alcoholism. These factors include:
1. Alcohol is often taken in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended.
2. There is a persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control alcohol use.
3. A great deal of time is spent in activities necessary to obtain alcohol, use alcohol, or recover from its effects.
4. Craving, or a strong desire or urge to use alcohol.
5. Recurrent alcohol use resulting in a failure to fulfil major role obligations at work, school, or home.
6. Continued alcohol use despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of alcohol.
7. Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of alcohol use.
8. Recurrent alcohol use in situations in which it is physically hazardous.
9. Alcohol use is continued despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by alcohol.
10. Tolerance, as defined by either of the following:
a) A need for markedly increased amounts of alcohol to achieve intoxication or desired effect; and
b) A markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of alcohol.
11. Withdrawal, as manifested by either of the following:
a) The characteristic withdrawal syndrome for alcohol (refer to criteria A and B of the criteria set for alcohol withdrawal)
b) Alcohol (or a closely related substance, such as a benzodiazepine) is taken to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Examining the severity levels:
> Mild – The presence of 2-3 symptoms.
> Moderate – The presence of 4-5 symptoms.
> Severe – The presence of 6 or more symptoms.
If 2 or more symptoms are identified, it is advised to seek help. Alcohol abuse have hazardous side effects at every phase which may lead to serious health risks. These risks include:
> Cardiovascular disease
> Anaemia
> Dementia
> Cirrhosis
> Cancer
> Seizures
> Depression
> High blood pressure
> Nerve damage
> Pancreatitis
> Gout
> Infectious diseases
Methods of Use
> Orally
Adverse Effects
> Anxiety
> Delusions
> Confusion
> Hallucinations
> Memory loss
> Headaches
> Nausea and vomiting
> Poor or decreased sleep
> Trembling
> Slower reflexes
> Increased heart rate and blood pressure
> Liver disease
Overdose Potential
The overdose potential of alcohol is significant and can be life-threatening. Consuming large quantities of alcohol in a short period can lead to alcohol poisoning, which affects vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, and body temperature. Symptoms of alcohol overdose include confusion, vomiting, seizures, slow or irregular breathing, unconsciousness, and even death. It's crucial to seek medical help immediately if alcohol overdose is suspected.
Withdrawal
Alcohol withdrawal can range from mild to severe and is usually associated with the severity level of the alcohol abuse. Symptoms can occur as early as 2 hours after the last drink but typically peaks within 24 to 48 hours.
The timeline for common withdrawal symptoms is:
6 to 12 hours post-ingestion:
> Agitation
> Anxiety
> Headaches
> Shaking
> Nausea and vomiting
12 to 24 hours post-ingestion:
> Disorientation
> Hand tremors
> Seizures
48 hours post-ingestion:
> Seizures
> Insomnia
> High blood pressure
> Hallucinations
> High fever and excessive sweating
> Delirium tremens
Because of the life-threatening health complications that can arise during acute alcohol withdrawal, it is recommended to be supervised by a medical professional during detox.
Some people experience prolonged side effects after the initial withdrawal symptoms have subsided. Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms (PAWS) can last up to a year and therefore treatment is advisable.
Common symptoms of PAWS:
> Irritability and emotional outbursts
> Anxiety
> Low energy
> Trouble sleeping
> Memory problems
> Dizziness
> Increased accident proneness
> Delayed reflexes
Treatment
> Self-help organizations – Talking with others who also have a disorder have been proven to be very effective.
> Therapy – Behaviour therapy or cognitive behaviour therapy is a proven evidence based therapy teaching skills to reduce the urges. Find a licensed practitioner.
> Medications – Studies suggest that some medication may be effective for the treatment of gambling addiction. Speak to a psychiatrist specialised in addiction treatment for an evaluation and recommendations.
> Treatment programs – Many in-treatment and outpatient programs can assist with a gambling disorder.
Why choose PRC Recovery?
We are a registered treatment centre specialising in the treatment of addictive disorders. Our individualised approach to treating addiction is based on international standards and includes the many proven modalities in the treatment of addiction.
Key focus areas for an effective program:
> Family involvement – family participation in the treatment of any addiction is vital.
> Individualised approach – underlying issues prolonging any addiction is based on the individual and therefore individual treatment plans are an important component to effective treatment of addiction by a qualified professional counsellor.
> 12 step program – Twelve step programs have proven highly effective in the treatment of addiction and starts forming the solid foundation in early recovery. It is also used as the platform to the introduction of self-help organisations, forming part of the aftercare.
> Aftercare – Stopping the addiction is only the foundation phase in the treatment of addiction. A well thought-out aftercare plan is crucial to sustain long-term recovery.
Sources
Understanding Alcohol Abuse
At PRC Recovery, we are deeply committed to addressing the challenges posed by alcohol abuse and fostering a journey towards comprehensive recovery. Recognizing the diverse nature of substances and their impact on individuals, our focus extends to providing valuable insights and information on various substances. In this installment, we shed light on alcohol, the most commonly abused psychoactive substance in our society. Our goal is to empower individuals with knowledge, encourage informed decision-making, and emphasize the importance of seeking professional help when needed.
