In the United States, alcoholism affects millions of people. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, about 18 million people suffer from alcohol use disorder. Unlike other addictive substances like opioids or meth, alcohol is legal, readily available, and socially acceptable. Alcohol use can progress to alcohol abuse and to alcohol dependency with insidious ease. This is why a professional substance abuse treatment program, like that offered at Clear Steps Recovery, provides the best chance to regain a life of sobriety.
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcoholism and requires alcohol addiction treatment, call 603.769.8981 to speak with our compassionate, professional staff. You may also contact us online.
Alcohol Use, Alcohol Abuse, Alcohol Dependency, and Alcoholism: What's the Difference?
The various terms used to describe someone struggling with alcohol are often used interchangeably. However, within the behavioral health field, they have distinct meanings.
- Alcohol use is simply the act of drinking alcohol. It’s not necessarily problematic and doesn’t always lead to abuse or dependence.
- Alcohol abuse occurs when a person drinks excessively, to the point that it begins to interfere with their life. For example, they may miss work or school due to hangovers, get into fights while under the influence, or drive drunk.
- Alcohol dependence (or alcoholism) is a more severe form of alcohol abuse. It’s characterized by a physical and psychological dependence on alcohol. People who are dependent on alcohol may feel like they can’t function without it. They may have withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit drinking, such as shaking, sweating, and nausea.
Alcohol addiction treatment at Clear Steps Recovery is tailored to each individual’s needs. Our team of professionals will work with you to create a plan that meets your unique requirements. We understand that alcoholism is a disease and treat it as such. We aim to help you achieve long-term sobriety so you can lead a happy, healthy, and productive life.
What Are the Effects of Alcoholism?
The effects of alcohol abuse and alcoholism are many, and some are quite serious. The short-term and long-term effects of alcohol consumption can lead to physical health problems and affect a person’s professional and social life, leading to economic and relationship problems.
Short-Term Effects
- Slurred speech
- Dizziness
- Lowered inhibitions
- Poor coordination
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Anxiety
- Depression
Long-Term Effects
- Liver disease
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Cancer
- Digestive problems
- Memory problems
- Mental health problems
Alcohol addiction treatment at Clear Steps Recovery is comprehensive and includes both individual and group therapy, as well as family support programs. Our caring and compassionate staff will create an individualized treatment plan that addresses the underlying causes and symptoms of the addiction.
Alcohol Abuse Recovery in New Hampshire
At Clear Steps Recovery, we are guided by a number of therapeutic approaches in our treatment. Our professional, experienced staff employs proven, effective therapies such as health realization and family support programs.
Health realization is an addiction treatment approach that focuses on helping people understand that they have the power to change their health and well-being. This approach is based on the belief that everyone has the potential to heal and that change is possible.
Our family support program assists in treatment and recovery by involving loved ones in the process. This program helps to educate and support family members, giving them the tools they need to understand addiction and how to best keep their loved ones in recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, we encourage you to reach out for help. Call 603.769.8981 or contact us online to start treatment today or learn more about our services.