Alcohol is a drug of abuse, although it is not always considered so in popular culture. Alcohol is a highly-addictive intoxicant, and its psychoactive effects are similar to other substances with sedative properties. Like drug addiction, alcohol addiction wreaks havoc on sufferers in nearly every aspect of their lives. For this reason, addiction treatment centers commonly treat substance use disorders involving alcohol in addition to illicit or prescription drugs.
Guardian Recovery offers comprehensive, individualized programs featuring a full continuum of care, including medical detox, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and aftercare. Through a potent combination of evidence-based therapy and holistic care, you will have the tools you need to break free from the chains of addiction for good. We will help you achieve abstinence, prevent relapse and enjoy a lifetime of wellness and recovery.
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What Is Alcohol?
Alcohol (ethanol) is a central nervous system depressant that slows neural activity and communication between the brain and body. It does this by boosting the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory chemical in the brain. A small amount of alcohol may not significantly affect most people, but severe cognitive and motor skill impairments can occur when consumed excessively.
When a person consumes large quantities of alcohol, more than the body is equipped to process, this can result in debilitating and dangerous complications.
Side Effects of Depressant/Alcohol Abuse Include:
- Low blood pressure
- Reduced heart rate
- Slow, labored or stopped breathing
- Depression
- Severe fatigue
- Dizziness and light-headedness
- Slurred speech
- Severely impaired motor skills
- Reduced inhibitions and poor decision-making
- Seizures
- Unresponsiveness or stupor
- Unconsciousness
- Death
Is Alcohol Classified as a Drug?
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, alcohol is “among the most used drugs” that “plays a large role in many societies and cultures” and “greatly impacts public health.” Though alcohol is not typically referred to as a drug outside of an official context such as this, it nonetheless fits the definition specified by the American Psychiatric Association: “any substance, other than food, that influences motor, sensory, cognitive, or other bodily processes.”
Alcohol is thought of as being different from most drugs because, in the U.S., it is not available by prescription—although it is widely accessible through many sources. Historically, alcohol has been used medicinally by many cultures, but it has not been regularly employed for therapeutic uses in most medical communities for several decades. It is also legal to consume by individuals over age 21 and readily obtainable for minors.
If Alcohol Is a Dangerous Drug, Why Is it Legal?
Whether alcohol use should be legal in the United States has been debated for decades. No one can deny its inherent health risks and danger to others as it continues to tear lives and families apart on a path of destruction. Between 1920-1933, the government attempted to rid the country of alcohol abuse during a period called the Prohibition Era.
Before long, federal efforts were undermined by organized crime, black market bootleggers, and the proliferation of illegal drinking establishments. And as alcohol use still ran rampant, states lost money in potential tax revenue. For this and various other reasons, alcohol was once again legalized.
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How Addictive Is Alcohol?
According to experts, alcohol is the fifth most addictive drug globally and the most damaging by a wide margin. Statistics report that approximately 23% of people who drink alcohol will develop dependence in their lifetime. While less addictive than heroin, cocaine, or nicotine, it is still more addictive than other potent drugs such as methamphetamine or benzodiazepines.
Like many mind-altering substances, alcohol is addictive due to its powerful effects on the brain’s reward and pleasure system. Alcohol use boosts the availability of feel-good brain chemicals, such as dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate. However, this initial reaction, responsible for the stimulating and enjoyable sensations drinkers often feel, will soon be overpowered by less desirable depressant effects.
Like other drugs, excessive, long-term alcohol use causes tolerance and dependence. Tolerance develops due to the body’s repeated exposure to alcohol and the mitigation of its effects. A high tolerance requires individuals to consume ever-increasing amounts of alcohol to reach their former levels of intoxication.
Dependence develops over time and results from the brain’s tendency to adjust to the continued presence of alcohol. Eventually, it will become unable to function correctly without it. When a person stops drinking suddenly after prolonged use, withdrawal symptoms will onset within a few hours and can last for several days.
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms Include:
- Depression
- Anxiety and agitation
- Headache
- Shakiness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Insomnia and sleep disturbances
- Sweating
In severe cases, people experiencing withdrawal may develop a life-threatening complication known as delirium tremens. This condition is characterized by hallucinations, delusions, confusion, and seizures. Without medical intervention, delirium tremens can result in death. This is why it is vital to undergo the withdrawal process under medical supervision.
Effects of Alcohol Addiction
In addition to tolerance and dependence, the other factor that characterizes addiction is compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite experiencing adverse consequences, such as health issues, problems with loved ones, and financial difficulties. Alcohol addiction also includes other emotional and behavioral effects.
Outward Alcohol Addiction Warning Signs:
- Spending considerable time drinking or recovering from drinking
- Failing to limit drinking or cut back on multiple occasions
- Neglecting critical responsibilities, hobbies, and activities once enjoyed in favor of alcohol use
- Engaging in dangerous or impulsive behavior, such as drinking and driving or risky sex
- Borrowing money or stealing from others to obtain alcohol
- Deceiving loves ones regarding drinking habits, hiding alcohol use
- Not showering or maintaining hygiene or a respectable appearance
- Incurring injuries from drinking, such as cuts and bruises from falling
- Behaving aggressively or violently, fighting or assaulting others
Comprehensive Treatment for Alcohol Addiction
Because alcohol dependence can lead to severe complications following discontinuation of use, treatment usually begins with a medically-assisted detox. This is a clinical process in which you will be monitored 24/7 for several days and treated with medications for withdrawal symptoms.
After detox, you will participate in the next phase of your recovery plan, such as a residential or partial hospitalization program. During your stay, you will receive medical care and treatments such as individual, group, and family therapy and life skills training, among others.
You will be encouraged to participate in intensive outpatient treatment after your residential stay and continue receiving various therapies and activities several times weekly. Outpatient treatment can be an ideal transitionary tool, as you are allowed to live outside the center while benefitting from care and support as they reacclimate to the real world.
After completing formal treatment, our aftercare planners can help you find local community and mental health resources for ongoing care and support.
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Alcohol Addiction Recovery Is Possible For Everyone
At Guardian Recovery network, our continuum of clinical care is designed to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness. We provide our clients with the education, coping skills, and support they need to sustain sobriety throughout their lives.
Contact us today for a complimentary, no-obligation assessment and health insurance benefits check. If you are underinsured or uninsured, we can help you explore alternatives. These include self-pay or private pay, which includes options such as zero-interest financing and medical or personal loans.
Through our streamlined admission process, we will determine the level of care most appropriate for you and design a recovery plan customized to your unique needs and goals. We are here to help you reclaim your life and begin your well-deserved recovery journey!
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Disclaimer: Does not guarantee specific treatment outcomes, as individual results may vary. Our services are not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis; please consult a qualified healthcare provider for such matters.
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