Alcohol addiction affects more than 15 million adults in the United States. While alcohol use disorder is a disease, like most medical conditions, it is treatable. Every person’s journey to sobriety and recovery is different. In this blog, we’ll help you understand how alcohol addiction treatment works so you better understand your options for recovery.

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Medical detox

Drug and alcohol rehab typically begins with medical detox. During medical detox, you’ll be required to stop using all substances and will experience withdrawal symptoms that can be dangerous and even life-threatening. These withdrawal symptoms are generally managed with medication and medical monitoring. This is why it’s important to detox at an addiction treatment center or as part of an inpatient program, under the supervision of a medical professional.

Detox is the first step to achieving sobriety. Some people think sobriety and recovery are the same. However, maintaining recovery after achieving sobriety requires continued care that may include behavioral therapy, support groups and specific addiction medications.

Inpatient rehab

Depending on the severity of your addiction, inpatient alcohol treatment may be a good fit for you. Inpatient treatment is ideal for those with severe addiction, who require medical detox and who would benefit from 24-hour supervision, away from an unhealthy home environment. Learn more about the differences between inpatient and outpatient treatment here.

Counseling for addiction

As part of your treatment, you’ll receive behavioral therapy for both addiction and any mental health conditions you may be diagnosed with. This is called dual-diagnosis treatment. A dual-diagnosis is also referred to as a co-occurring disorder.

Counseling is an integral part of addiction treatment and can support your recovery. By addressing the underlying causes of addiction, counseling can help reduce the risk of relapse and support your on-going recovery.

Addiction medications

Sometimes, medication may be prescribed to patients in an addiction treatment program. These medications can help ease withdrawal symptoms and support recovery. Patients who receive certain medications for alcohol abuse stay in treatment longer and are 17-times less likely to relapse.

Your healthcare provider can discuss your options with you if you are curious about addiction medications.

Support groups

Support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous and group therapy at your local counseling center, can help you maintain sobriety. Recovery is often a lifelong endeavor, so engaging with others who have had similar experiences can provide the encouragement you need to continue on the path towards a healthier and happier lifestyle.

Addiction recovery may include all or a combination of some of these common treatment methods. At The Transition House, we provide both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs for addiction. Request an appointment at one of our counseling centers and we'll help you find a program that’s right for you.