Although alcohol is widely accepted in society, it carries a significant risk of mental and physical addiction. This poses a perilous situation for individuals who find it challenging to control their alcohol intake and drinking patterns. Unwanted dependency can quietly emerge, much like an unseen tide, before they realise it, ultimately resulting in alcoholism.
Alcohol Addiction & Treatment
Am I addicted?
Understanding if you have an alcohol addiction can be challenging. The answer depends on your regular consumption patterns, and the effects it has on your life – are there positive or negative consequences?
When consuming large volumes of alcohol, it becomes an integral part of your everyday life and you find yourself unable to stop, it is time to reach out and ask for help.
Why choose Connection addiction care?
- Minimal waiting times
- Specialised and personalised program
- Proven effective treatment plans
- Tailor-made aftercare process
- Outstanding family support program
- Available in both the Netherlands and South Africa
What are the signs of alcohol addiction?
An alcohol addiction has the potential to transition from a simple desire to an uncontrollable compulsion, drastically impacting the lives of those affected. Some of the ways in which alcohol addiction may manifest include:
- Problematic drinking, which can lead to physical, mental, and social issues.
- Binge drinking, characterised by consuming a large amount of alcohol rapidly, resulting in a blood-alcohol content of over 0.8 promille. This equates to more than six glasses for men or four glasses for women in a single sitting.
- Mental dependence on alcohol, where an individual becomes consumed by the need for alcohol, using it to alter their moods rather than addressing underlying problems or finding healthier coping mechanisms. This pattern can be extremely dangerous if not addressed appropriately.
- Alcohol addiction represents a destructive combination of physical and mental dependency. When left untreated, individuals who abruptly attempt to quit alcohol may experience discomforting withdrawal symptoms such as trembling, sweating, poor sleep quality, and heightened anxiety.
Alcohol addiction treatment
At Connection Mental Healthcare, we understand the risks associated with an unhealthy relationship with alcohol.
If you find that your drinking habits are becoming increasingly frequent and affecting your physical or mental well-being, it is crucial to consider seeking professional assistance.
Our rehab centre in South Africa offers comprehensive and medically sound treatment programs. We are dedicated to guiding our clients towards overcoming their addictions and reclaiming their lives. Our personalised approach ensures that individuals can regain control of their lives, restored and in good health.
Do you need help?
Signs of alcohol addiction
Alcohol addiction can manifest itself in many ways, both psychologically and physically. Signs may include:
- Needing more than one or two drinks to feel satisfied.
- Experiencing a loss of control when it comes to alcohol consumption.
- Difficulties with concentration and memory recall, experiencing cognitive impairments due to excessive drinking.
- Making empty promises to quit drinking followed by repeated relapses, unable to maintain sobriety.
- Frequently finding excuses to justify the need for alcohol at any given time, rationalising its consumption.
- Feeling a sense of loneliness as relationships with loved ones deteriorate due to the alcoholic's behaviour.
- Experiencing additional physical ailments alongside mental health issues, such as craving alcohol outside of typical "drinking hours" or discreetly hiding bottles.
- Facing financial consequences due to absences from work.
Symptoms of alcohol addiction
Symptoms of alcohol addiction can give rise to a diverse range of emotional, physical, and psychological effects.
Individuals struggling with this form of dependence may experience symptoms such as depression or intense mood swings. They may also experience difficulties falling asleep, memory impairment, or an unusual loss of appetite.
Withdrawal symptoms, including trembling and sweating, can manifest when alcohol consumption is reduced or stopped abruptly. Nervousness may escalate to the point of potential panic attacks, while mental confusion can arise from blackout episodes or sensory overload. In severe cases, more potential psychotic features may be present.
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Risks of alcohol addiction
Engaging in excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a series of concerning consequences, including the development of addiction, social problems, and financial burdens.
These problems can be compounded further by a range of physical conditions that may arise These can include amnesia, heart and vascular diseases, deficiencies in essential vitamins like vitamin B, and infections affecting multiple organs. In severe cases, life-threatening conditions such as liver cirrhosis (the formation of scar tissue in the liver), Korsakov’s disease, or even cancer may arise.
Effects of alcohol addiction
The effects of alcohol addiction can be devastating. Feelings of sadness, depression, anger, and powerlessness can intensify, potentially leading to severe outcomes, including the risk of death, for individuals who do not seek help.
It is important to recognise that alcohol addiction knows no boundaries and can affect people from all walks of life. Our dedicated team of experienced professionals are here to support you in identifying the underlying causes behind your addiction, empowering you to regain control over your life, and equipping you with effective coping strategies to address the driving forces behind your alcohol consumption.
We understand the complexity of alcohol addiction and are committed to providing personalised care and guidance throughout your journey towards recovery.
A journey to sobriety
We support individuals on their path to freedom from addiction, enabling them to embrace healthier lives free of substance dependency.
Alcohol abuse is a much more common problem in society than most people realise and recognising the urgency of timely intervention is crucial.
Not only does alcohol abuse endanger one’s health, but it can also strain relationships with loved ones, potentially leading to feelings of isolation. Additionally, work obligations may be neglected as the effects of alcohol take priority.
By acknowledging the significance of addressing alcohol abuse and seeking appropriate support, individuals can restore their well-being, rebuild relationships, and realign their focus on personal and professional responsibilities.
Get the help and support you need
Are you willing to take the first step on the journey of alcohol addiction recovery? Connection Mental Healthcare has you covered. Our compassionate team of experienced professionals is here to support you every step of the way. Here at Connect Mental Healthcare, everyone is treated with respect and empathy within a non-judgmental environment.
Contact form – how can we help you?
Frequently asked questions about alcohol addiction
When are you an alcoholic?
When individuals consistently consume an average of six to seven glasses of alcohol per day, it is clear that addiction has taken hold, and they could be considered alcoholics.
However, defining alcoholism can be challenging due to the potential for binge drinking in certain situations. It is crucial to recognise that there is no one-size-fits-all profile for alcoholics; anyone, regardless of age, gender, or socio-economic status, can develop this dangerous habit.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, seeking assistance from professional sources is essential. Connect with Connection Mental Healthcare at 021 541 0643 to access the help and support needed on the path towards recovery.
What does treatment cost?
Connection Mental Healthcare is a private rehab. Our rates vary depending on the length of treatment and on what kind of accommodation you prefer.
We offer shared room accommodation, and private room accommodation depending on availability. The minimum length of treatment is 28 days; however, 42 days is advised. Please contact us for more information and we will make sure that we respond to you within 24 hours.
How do you treat alcohol addiction?
At Connection Mental Healthcare, we understand the complexities of alcohol addiction and how it can impact your life. We take a respectful and personalised approach to helping people recover from their substance use problems by providing tailored treatments that address withdrawal management as well as relapse prevention – all with extensive specialised experience in this field.
Alcohol addiction is a serious problem that requires professional guidance. You have to start your life again, but now without the substance you were addicted to. We can help you with this: call 021 541 0643 to arrange an intake.
What are symptoms of alcohol addiction?
The effects of alcohol addiction can encompass a range of symptoms:
- Feelings of depression and persistent sadness
- Trouble with sleep patterns
- Memory problems, including blackouts or gaps in recollection
- Mood swings and changes in emotional stability
- Stomach and intestinal complications
- Experiencing trembling and sweating
- Nervousness, anxiety, and potential panic symptoms
- Mental confusion and cognitive difficulties
- Loss of appetite or changes in eating habits
- Possible occurrence of psychotic features
- Withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop or reduce alcohol consumption
- Understanding these symptoms and seeking professional help is crucial in addressing alcohol addiction and reclaiming one’s well-being.
What are the risks of alcohol addiction?
Alcohol addiction carries a multitude of risks, including:
- Financial difficulties
- Amnesia and memory impairments
- Potential involvement in criminal prosecutions
- Risk of job dismissal
- Increased susceptibility to heart and vascular diseases
- Vitamin B deficiencies
- Higher likelihood of infections and organ damage
- Development of liver cirrhosis (the formation of scar tissue in the liver)
- Onset of Korsakov’s disease
- Increased risk of various types of cancer
- Feelings of sadness, anger, and powerlessness
- Potential for severe consequences, including death
Acknowledging these risks is vital to taking proactive steps towards addressing alcohol addiction and safeguarding one’s well-being.
Why is alcohol addictive?
Few people are aware that alcohol addiction is a gradual process that develops over time. As an individual’s tolerance for alcohol increases and regular consumption persists, breaking or controlling the habit can become difficult without help.
The development of alcohol addiction can be influenced by various personal, medical, and environmental factors. Genetic predisposition inherited from family members, as well as underlying elements, can play a contributory role.
At Connection Mental Healthcare, we understand the complex nature of alcoholism. This is why our treatment programs look at all aspects concerning your individual needs during recovery rather than just focusing on one single root cause of the problem associated with alcoholism.
When do you drink too much alcohol?
Exceeding the weekly recommended amount of alcohol can have adverse health effects. The benchmark is 21 glasses per week for men and 14 for women, with a two-day abstinence required in that same period. This differentiation in recommendations is due to variations in body composition between genders.
How do you deal with an alcoholic?
Navigating addiction can be an emotional minefield. When dealing with a loved one who is struggling with alcohol addiction, it is essential to choose the right moment for conversation, avoiding times when they have recently consumed alcohol. Approach the topic in a compassionate and non-judgmental manner, fostering open communication.
Talk about how they would like to be supported, ensuring that their preferences and needs are taken into consideration. Establishing agreements for future actions based on their input can help cultivate a sense of collaboration and mutual understanding. It is also important to express appreciation for the positive aspects and progress made by the individual, highlighting their strengths and efforts.
Having a close relationship with someone battling alcohol addiction can be emotionally taxing, leading to feelings of stress, guilt, anger, and loneliness. It is crucial to acknowledge and accept when you have reached your limits and recognise that continuing on your own is no longer feasible.
Get in touch
We can help you with this: call 021 541 0643 to arrange an intake.
Is alcoholism a disease?
Scientific research has established that various areas of the brain, including the reward centre, memory, and neocortex, play integral roles in the onset and progression of addiction. Stopping a substance to which you are addicted is not easy as your own brain chemistry has become a formidable obstacle.
In addition, long-term alcohol consumption causes permanent changes within the brain resulting in a reduction of dopamine receptors and powerful memories are created. These changes make individuals even more susceptible to addiction.
Based on this knowledge, alcohol addiction could be characterised as a mental disease, encompassing complex physiological and psychological components.
Is alcoholism hereditary?
Hereditary yes or no?
According to studies, substance use appears to be hereditary. However, it does not necessarily mean that you will also become addicted if one of your parents is or was. It is important to remember that environmental conditions can reduce the effect of increased susceptibility.
Family disease
Addiction can be labelled as a ‘family disease’. Addiction does not only affect the addict but also their loved ones. That is why Connection Mental Healthcare believes it is crucial to interact with the client’s family and friends so that we can help them learn how to deal with the effects of addiction.
Family program
Want to know more about our family program? Please contact us by telephone during working hours on 021 541 0643.