At our alcohol treatment centers in New Jersey, individuals can find the support they need to embark on a journey toward recovery and lead healthier, happier lives. Learn how our addiction treatment programs in New Jersey can help you successfully break free from alcohol dependency.
Outpatient programs can vary in intensity, but most of them include some combination of individual and group therapy, as well as other activities designed to help people recover from addiction. Many outpatient programs also include medication-assisted treatment, which can be very effective for treating certain types of addiction.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, an outpatient program may be a good option. It’s important to talk to a treatment professional to find out what kind of program would be best for you or your loved one.
Behavioral therapy aims to help individuals identify the root causes of their drinking behaviors and develop healthier coping mechanisms. This can include Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT), which helps individuals recognize their patterns of thinking and behavior related to drinking, as well as motivational interviewing, which helps individuals increase their motivation to change.
Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) provide a supportive community for individuals in recovery from alcohol addiction. These groups offer peer support, guidance, and accountability in maintaining sobriety.
Medication may also be prescribed as part of alcohol addiction treatment. Medications like naltrexone and acamprosate can help reduce cravings for alcohol, while others like disulfiram can cause severe reactions when combined with alcohol, acting as a deterrent for those trying to stay sober.
The most effective approach to treating alcohol addiction varies from person to person. It is crucial for individuals seeking treatment for AUD to work closely with healthcare professionals to find the best course of action for their specific needs. With our addiction therapy services in Neptune City, NJ, recovery from alcohol addiction is possible.
What are the Signs & Symptoms of Alcohol Abuse
Excessive Drinking: One of the most evident signs of alcohol abuse is consuming large amounts of alcohol regularly. This could mean drinking more than the recommended daily limit or binge drinking – having multiple drinks in a short period.
Neglecting Responsibilities: People who abuse alcohol often prioritize drinking over their responsibilities at work, school, or home. They may miss deadlines, neglect their duties, or even skip important events because they are too focused on drinking.
Changes in Behavior: Alcohol abuse can also cause significant changes in a person’s behavior. They may become more irritable, aggressive, or withdrawn. They may also engage in risky behaviors such as driving under the influence or engaging in unprotected sex.
Physical Health Problems: Long-term alcohol abuse can take a toll on one’s physical health. Some common health issues associated with excessive drinking include liver disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, and neurological disorders.
Blackouts and Memory Loss: Heavy drinkers often experience blackouts – periods where they cannot remember what happened while they were under the influence of alcohol. Frequent blackouts can be a strong indicator of an underlying problem with alcohol.
Relationship Issues: Alcohol abuse can strain relationships with family members, friends, and romantic partners due to erratic behavior and conflicts that arise when under the influence.
Financial Problems: Drinking excessively can be expensive and can lead to financial difficulties such as debt or missing bill payments due to spending money on alcohol.
Withdrawal Symptoms: When someone who abuses alcohol tries to stop or cut back on their drinking habits suddenly, they may experience withdrawal symptoms such as shaking, sweating, nausea, and anxiety. These symptoms can be severe and require medical attention.
Learn how our outpatient drug rehab in New Jersey addresses and treats substance abuse. Break free from the cycle of addiction at our alcohol addiction treatment in New Jersey.
Alcohol Use Disorder & How It Affects Your Health
The effects of AUD on long term health include:
Liver Damage: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to inflammation and scarring of the liver, known as cirrhosis. This condition can be life-threatening and irreversible.
Cardiovascular Disease: Long-term alcohol abuse has been linked to an increased risk of developing heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.
Pancreatitis: Heavy drinking can also damage the pancreas, leading to inflammation and swelling in this vital organ.
Weakened Immune System: Alcohol interferes with the body’s immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
Cancer Risk: Chronic alcohol consumption has been linked to several types of cancers, including liver cancer, mouth cancer, throat cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer.
The effects of AUD on mental health include:
Depression & Anxiety: Individuals with AUD are at a higher risk of developing depression and anxiety disorders due to changes in brain chemistry caused by heavy alcohol consumption.
Cognitive Impairment: Prolonged heavy drinking can cause cognitive impairments such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating or learning new things, and decreased problem-solving abilities.
Increased Risk of Suicide: Those with AUD are at a significantly higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors compared to those without the disorder.
Relationship Problems: The negative effects of AUD can strain relationships with family members, friends, partners, and colleagues due to erratic behavior caused by alcohol use.
It is crucial to recognize the signs of AUD and seek substance abuse treatment to prevent further harm. Remember that recovery is a journey, but with the right support and determination, it is possible to live a healthy and fulfilling life free from the negative effects of alcohol abuse.
What Are the Dangers of Alcohol Withdrawal
Delirium Tremens (DTs): DTs are a severe form of alcohol withdrawal characterized by hallucinations, confusion, agitation, and seizures. This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
Seizures: Abruptly stopping alcohol consumption can cause an increase in brain activity, leading to seizures. These seizures are more likely to occur in individuals who have a history of heavy drinking.
Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases the production of urine in the body. When someone stops drinking alcohol, they may experience excessive sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration.
Electrolyte Imbalance: Heavy drinking can deplete essential electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium from the body. Suddenly stopping alcohol consumption can lead to an imbalance of these electrolytes, which can cause serious health problems.
Respiratory Problems: Chronic alcohol abuse can weaken the respiratory system and make an individual more susceptible to respiratory infections. Stopping alcohol abruptly can also lead to breathing difficulties and even respiratory failure.
Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: Alcohol withdrawal can cause a sudden increase in heart rate and blood pressure due to changes in the body’s chemistry. This puts extra strain on the heart and increases the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Mental Health Issues: Long-term heavy drinking often co-occurs with mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression. When someone stops drinking abruptly, it can worsen these conditions or trigger new ones.
Our intensive outpatient program (IOP) in New Jersey provides a comfortable environment for you or a loved one to overcome alcohol addiction. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help from our alcohol addiction treatment in New Jersey.
How is Alcohol Addiction Diagnosed
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) published by the American Psychiatric Association outlines specific criteria for diagnosing alcohol use disorder. These criteria include:
- Drinking more or for longer periods than intended
- Trying to cut down or stop drinking but being unable to do so
- Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from its effects
- Craving alcohol
- Continuing to drink despite negative consequences
- Giving up important activities or responsibilities because of drinking
- Developing tolerance, needing more alcohol to feel its effects
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking
In addition to meeting at least two of these criteria, the individual must also display significant impairment in their social, occupational, and/or daily functioning due to their alcohol use. If you or a loved one is diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD), our PHP treatment in New Jersey may be a great option.
Finding a New Jersey Alcohol Rehab Center
At Rebirth Recovery, we understand that addiction can be a difficult and overwhelming struggle. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing our clients with the necessary support and resources to break free from addiction and live a fulfilling life.
Take the first step towards freedom and contact us today. Our team is ready to guide you on your path toward recovery and help you discover a new sense of hope and purpose.
Marguerite Mullan is a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 13 years of experience in mental health and substance use disorders. She holds a master’s degree in Nursing Education from Chamberlain University and a post-master’s certificate as a PMHNP from Monmouth University. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults and children. Marguerite follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition. She has treated individuals with emotional and mental health needs, including depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance use disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders, and sleep disturbances. She has experience treating individuals in all levels of care, including inpatient and outpatient settings. With compassion and understanding, Marguerite’s comprehensive approach to mental health treatment is based on mindfulness and positive self-expression.
