No matter where you live in the U.S., there’s a good chance that you know someone affected by alcoholism. That person may already be seeking help for their condition. However, many people with serious drinking problems have not yet entered an alcohol detox and rehab program. What can you do to support someone in this situation? Addiction specialists recommend multiple ways get someone alcoholism help.
Providing Alcoholism Help Starts with Recognition
You may suspect that your friend or a family member struggles with alcoholism. But is your suspicion accurate? It takes a formal diagnosis to answer this question for sure. However, you may notice signs of a potential problem before a diagnosis. Examples of these signs include:
- The apparent loss of control over alcohol use
- An inability to quit drinking after trying two or more times
- Strong cravings for more alcohol when they’re not currently drinking
- Continued heavy use of alcohol despite the obvious damage it causes
- A need to drink in larger and larger amounts before feeling any effects
- The onset of withdrawal if alcohol use drops off or stops
Any number of these signs may occur. The more that are present, the worse your loved one’s alcoholism may be.
How to Help an Alcoholic by Talking About Seeking Help
What’s the best way to encourage your loved one to seek help for potential symptoms of alcoholism? Experts recommend having a carefully planned conversation about your concerns. How can you make this conversation as effective as possible? Crucial steps include:
- Asking for advice from addiction or intervention specialists
- Speaking in a straightforward, caring tone
- Steering clear of words that blame, shame or judge
- Practicing what you plan to say in advance
It’s also important to know where to direct your loved one for an official alcoholism diagnosis. Many people receive a diagnosis from their primary doctors. Others consult a local addiction specialist. Both doctors and specialists can direct you toward effective alcohol treatment programs in your area.
Seeking Alcohol Addiction Help at Detox
Alcoholism help typically starts with entry into detox. While in detox, your loved one will get the support they need to stop drinking. They will also receive treatment that makes alcohol withdrawal easier to bear. In addition, your loved one will receive medical oversight that protects their health while alcohol leaves their system. For people with alcoholism, detox also serves as a necessary stepping stone to active alcohol rehab.
Help with Alcoholism During Rehab
A rehab program is where people with alcoholism take key actions to remain alcohol-free. It helps prevent a short-term relapse in the weeks and months following detox. It also provides essential support for building long-term sobriety skills.
In rehab, alcohol addiction help often takes the form of medication. Psychotherapy is also frequently useful. Your loved one may only need one of these two options to make progress. However, they may do better when relying on both of them. Effective help for an alcoholic may also require treatment of additional mental health issues. That’s true because such issues often affect people with alcoholism.
More on How to Help an Alcoholic at Northpoint Colorado
Help with alcoholism is essential for anyone addicted to alcohol. Have further questions about how to effectively support someone in need of treatment? The experts at Northpoint Colorado can answer them.
Northpoint Colorado is also your source for high-quality alcoholism help. From detox to rehab, we have everything your loved one needs to make progress toward lasting sobriety. That includes treatment for any mental health issues that accompany alcoholism. To learn more about our services, just call us today at 888.231.1281 or complete our online form.