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Group therapy, led by a therapist, can give you the benefits of therapy along with the support of other members. The criteria include having a pattern of consumption that leads to considerable impairment or distress. Alcohol consumption becomes a problem when it takes precedence over all other activities. Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and what may work for one person may not be a good fit for someone else. Simply understanding the different options can be an important first step.
A meeting in the suburbs might not be appropriate for someone from the inner city and vice versa. Motivating a reluctant patient is one of the great challenges in treatment. To enhance the prospects of successful treatment, the clinician needs to have a basic concept of the stages of change. The 5 stages of change (Prochaska,) sober house provide fundamental guidance for enhancing motivation. Specific strategies aligned with each of the 5 stages help a clinician motivate and prepare the patient for change. The 5 stages of change represent a cycle, permitting and explaining behavior that moves in both progressive and regressive directions.
Medications Used to Treat Alcoholism
Serotonergic and anticonvulsant agents promise to play more of a role in the treatment of alcohol dependence. Food and Drug Administration for this indication, the anticonvulsant topiramate and several serotonergic agents (e.g., fluoxetine, ondansetron) have been shown in recent studies to increase abstinence rates and decrease drinking. All three of these therapies have demonstrated their effectiveness. Psychologists can also diagnose and treat these “co-occurring” psychological conditions. Further, a psychologist may play an important role in coordinating the services a drinker in treatment receives from various health professionals.
Thanks to virtual healthcare, you can see a therapist from the comfort of your home. St. John’s wort can help to relieve depression and mood swings that come with alcohol withdrawal and early recovery. Research shows the herb works as well as some depression medications. Ashwagandha is sometimes used for alcohol withdrawal and cravings.
What Are the Treatments for Alcohol Use Disorder?
Three medications are currently approved in the United States to help people stop or reduce their drinking and prevent relapse. They are prescribed by a primary care physician or other health professional and may be used alone or in combination with counseling. St. John’s wort is believed to help people stop drinking alcohol, but its effectiveness has not been fully studied.
- You doctor also can refer you to a treatment center or experts who can help.
- Because it is metabolized by the liver, hepatotoxicity is possible, although uncommon.
- The same result was not seen in patients who were still drinking at the start of the study.
- The alcohol-targeted acupuncture cut down on cravings and withdrawal symptoms better than the sham treatment.