Deciding to Check into an Alcohol Treatment Program

For those suffering from alcohol addiction, a lot of potential options for addressing the addiction may have been previously attempted yet failed. These might include participation in an AA group, living in a sober living home or counseling. In instances where the intake of alcohol is high for an extended period of time, tapering down may not be an option. Checking into an alcohol treatment program is often the best available remedy in such a situation. By learning more about alcohol treatment programs and how they address addiction to alcohol, starting the road to sobriety should be achievable.

Diagnose the Addiction

Inpatient treatment is expensive and is an expense which is possible to avoid if the problem is addressable with other solutions. Some strategies might include group therapy in outpatient treatment, checking into a sober living house or attending several AA meetings on a daily basis. Should the use be particularly high, make an effort to taper down and attend as many meetings sober as possible.

Isolate Use

There are two schools of thought when it comes to alcoholism. One relates usage to compulsion while the other relates it to choice. Regardless of your opinion, isolating yourself from the potential to consume alcohol is an effective way to address the problem. Consider taking an extended vacation to a remote area with a loved one in order to limit access to alcohol.

Consider an Alcohol Treatment Program

If none of the above approaches help reduce or eliminate the use of alcohol, it might be time to check into an alcohol treatment program. This could be an outpatient or inpatient program, either of which is typically preferred based on the overall seriousness of the addiction.

Preparing for Entrance into A Program

There are a few steps which should be taken before deciding to enter into a treatment program to help create an optimal environment upon leaving the program.

1. Employment: Work with your employer to negotiate continued employment upon exiting the program. Failing to negotiate such an agreement could leave yourself without a viable source of income upon leaving the treatment program, which can quickly veer you back towards using alcohol. This step is usually only necessary for inpatient treatment. Sustaining employment throughout outpatient treatment is generally achievable.

2. Bills and Potential Emergencies: Arrange for all of your bills to be paid while participating in an inpatient program. If you have insurance work with the provider to find out how much money is available for the treatment. Although you will still be able to sustain contact with the outside world while in a treatment program, it typically isn’t possible to physically address any emergencies. Have a friend, neighbor or relative be responsible for your residence and other possessions such as a vehicle during this time period.

Medical Care

Most alcohol treatment programs that take place at a clinic have the capability to recognize and address symptoms related to alcohol withdrawal. These include delirium tremens and hallucinations on the higher end of the spectrum. Withdrawal symptoms can be treated as they occur at such a facility.

Group Therapy

Group therapy is an essential aspect of recovery, thus, it is prevalent within any alcohol treatment program. Expect to participate in several group sessions on a daily basis upon checking into an alcohol treatment program. According to verywellmind.com, “These sessions are designed to begin to teach you the skills that you will need to live life without drugs and alcohol. You will learn how to recognize situations in which you are most likely to drink or use drugs and how to avoid these circumstances if possible. You will learn new coping skills. The group sessions are designed to teach you the value of seeking support from others who are going through the same experiences and challenges that you are. In some facilities, these group sessions may be actual 12 step meetings. In other facilities, they may be facilitated by staff members.”

Be sure to contact us at Recovery In Tune if you have any questions about making the decision to check into an alcohol treatment program.

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