Detox and Alcohol Treatment in Austin, TX
Alcohol, a legal and widely accessible substance, can be prone to abuse despite its common presence in our society. Its misuse can lead to serious consequences, affecting individuals and communities alike.[1] However, with the right support and resources, recovery from alcohol addiction is possible.
Rehabilitation and treatment programs play a crucial role in helping individuals overcome alcohol addiction and substance use, and Crestone Wellness offers comprehensive support and treatment for those seeking recovery. With holistic, evidence-based treatment and full-person care, we’re here to help the Austin and wider Texas community live a life of potential and fulfillment with our full continuum of care.
If you or a loved one are struggling, reach out to Crestone today to start your recovery.
- Alcohol, known as ethanol, is a psychoactive substance derived from fermentation. It’s consumed socially but can lead to addiction and health problems when abused.
- Immediate and long-term effects of alcohol abuse include physical health issues, mental health disorders, social repercussions, and impacts on work or academic performance.
- Treatment for alcohol abuse involves detox, residential programs, family involvement, and various therapy modalities like CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Yoga Therapy, among others.
What is Alcohol?
Alcohol, chemically known as ethanol, is a psychoactive substance that is commonly consumed for its depressant effects on the central nervous system.[2] It is produced through the fermentation of sugars by yeast, resulting in beverages such as beer, wine, and spirits.
Alcohol is widely consumed for various reasons, including socializing, relaxation, and cultural or religious rituals. However, excessive or chronic consumption of alcohol can lead to dependence, addiction, and a range of health and social problems.
From a chemical perspective, alcohol is a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic odor and taste. It is soluble in water and acts as a solvent for many substances. In addition to its use in beverages, alcohol is also used in various industrial processes, as a fuel, and in the production of pharmaceuticals and personal care products.
Alcohol Addiction and Abuse
Alcohol addiction, also known as alcoholism or alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a chronic and progressive condition characterized by an inability to control alcohol consumption despite negative consequences.[2] This disorder can manifest in various ways, ranging from occasional binge drinking to daily heavy drinking.
One of the defining features of alcohol addiction is the development of tolerance, where people require increasing amounts of alcohol to achieve the desired effects. This tolerance often leads to escalating patterns of consumption, placing you at higher risk for dependence and addiction.[3]
Several factors contribute to the development of alcohol addiction, including genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and psychological factors.[4] For some people, genetic factors may play a significant role in their susceptibility to alcohol addiction, while environmental factors such as family history of alcoholism, peer pressure, and traumatic experiences can also contribute to the development of problematic drinking patterns.
The spectrum of alcohol abuse encompasses a wide range of behaviors, from occasional binge drinking to chronic heavy drinking. Binge drinking is defined as consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short period, typically resulting in a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.[5] Chronic heavy drinking involves regularly consuming large quantities of alcohol over an extended period, often leading to physical and psychological dependence.[6]
Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol Quick Reference Chart
Drug Category
Alcohol
Commercial & Street Names
Booze, hootch, poison, sauce, spirits, the bottle
DEA Schedule
None
Administration
Orally
What Are the Consequences of Alcohol Abuse?
The consequences of alcohol abuse can be both immediate and long-term, affecting various aspects of your health, relationships, and overall well-being: [7, 8]
Physical Health Effects
- Liver disease, including fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis.
- Cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, and increased risk of heart disease.
- Weakened immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.
- Gastrointestinal issues like gastritis, ulcers, and pancreatitis.
- Neurological damage, including memory impairment, cognitive deficits, and neuropathy.
Mental Health Effects
- Increased risk of developing mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
- Exacerbation of pre-existing mental health conditions.
- Impaired judgment leads to risky behaviors and poor decision-making.
- Higher likelihood of suicide attempts and self-harm.
Work and Academic Performance
- Decreased productivity and absenteeism at work or school.
- Poor academic performance and impaired cognitive functioning affect learning and memory.
- Increased likelihood of unemployment, job loss, and career stagnation due to alcohol-related issues.
Risk of Accidents and Injuries
- Higher incidence of accidents, falls, and injuries, especially when under the influence of alcohol.
- Increased risk of involvement in motor vehicle accidents, resulting in fatalities or serious injuries to oneself and others.
What Kinds of Treatment Are Available for Alcohol Abuse?
Alcohol treatment centers in Austin take a comprehensive approach that considers every aspect of addiction, including any potential dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorders that you may have.
Various options are available to support you on the journey to long-term recovery for your individual needs, including:
Levels of Care
Therapeutic Modalities
Frequently Asked Questions About Alcohol Abuse and Treatment
What are the signs and symptoms of alcohol addiction and substance abuse?
Alcohol addiction can have various signs and symptoms. These include an increased tolerance to alcohol, withdrawal symptoms upon cessation, unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control drinking, spending significant time obtaining or recovering from alcohol use, and continued drinking despite its negative impact on various aspects of life, such as relationships and work.
How does alcohol addiction differ from occasional drinking?
Alcohol addiction contrasts with occasional drinking in its compulsive and problematic nature. While occasional drinkers consume alcohol moderately without significant consequences, individuals with alcohol addiction experience cravings, tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and difficulty controlling their drinking despite adverse effects. Alcohol addiction often disrupts relationships, work, and health, which is not typically the case with occasional drinking.
Can genetics play a role in alcohol addiction?
Yes, genetics significantly influence the likelihood of developing alcohol addiction. A family history of alcoholism increases the risk of alcohol use disorder. Genetic factors impact how people metabolize alcohol, their sensitivity to its effects, and their susceptibility to addictive behaviors. However, genetics interact with environmental factors and personal experiences in determining alcohol addiction.
What role does family involvement play in alcohol addiction treatment?
Family involvement is integral to alcohol addiction treatment in Austin, TX, providing essential support and accountability in your treatment plan. In therapy sessions, family members address relationship issues, learn about addiction, and develop healthy communication and coping strategies. Family support creates a stable environment conducive to recovery, reducing the risk of relapse and promoting long-term sobriety.
How can individuals prevent relapse after completing treatment for alcohol addiction?
Relapse prevention involves ongoing effort and commitment to sobriety, which is often a focus at a treatment facility or addiction treatment center. Strategies include continued participation in aftercare programs, developing healthy coping mechanisms, building a supportive network, avoiding high-risk situations, engaging in wellness activities, monitoring warning signs, understanding the addiction cycle, and celebrating milestones to reinforce progress.
Sources
[1] National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2020). Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder. Www.niaaa.nih.gov; National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder on June 5, 2024
[2] MedlinePlus. (2019). Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). Medlineplus.gov; National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/alcoholusedisorderaud.html on June 5, 2024
[3] National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2021). The Cycle of Alcohol Addiction. Www.niaaa.nih.gov. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/cycle-alcohol-addiction on June 5, 2024
[4] Enoch, M.-A. (2013). Genetic Influences on the Development of Alcoholism. Current Psychiatry Reports, 15(11). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-013-0412-1 on June 5, 2024
[5] National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2023). Drinking Levels Defined. Nih.gov. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/moderate-binge-drinking on June 5, 2024
[6] National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2021). Alcohol’s Effects on the Body. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA); NIAAA. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohols-effects-body on June 5, 2024
[7] Mayo Clinic. (2022, May 18). Alcohol use disorder – Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alcohol-use-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20369243 on June 5, 2024
[8] Alcohol. (n.d.). Www.who.int. https://www.who.int/health-topics/alcohol on June 5, 2024
Social Consequences