An end-stage alcoholic will experience life-threatening withdrawal symptoms when they stop drinking. This is why detoxing should be done with a medical professional’s supervision at an addiction treatment center. At Rockland Treatment Center, we understand how consuming addiction is and how intimidating it is to take the first step to a better life. Sometimes, what seems like social drinking escalates and then becomes problematic. However, no matter which of the stages of alcoholism you’re in, Buckhead Behavioral Health is here to help. Problem drinking can also be determined by looking at the negative effects of drinking.
Stage #3: Problem drinking
After prolonged use of alcohol, your brain adapts to its effects on the body and can develop a physical dependence on it. The brain relies on alcohol to produce certain chemicals in the body, and without it in the system, horrible alcohol withdrawal effects can be felt. What may start as drinking alcohol most weekends to have some fun and lighten the mood, can end in having a few drinks throughout the day just to get by. A person suffering from alcoholism may be unlikely to admit to their problems, but the signs are there and might be easy to see. It may take months or even years to recognize that someone is struggling with it.
Treatment Options for Alcoholism
In fact, binge drinking can lead to serious health concerns such as alcohol poisoning, comas, and even death. Additionally, what is Oxford House drinking in large amounts can lead to alcohol dependency or addiction – making it the first stage of alcoholism. Sometimes medications may be used in alcohol addiction treatment. These medicines can help reduce the negative side effects of detoxification and withdrawal.
Medically Reviewed By Jodi Mabry, Nurse Practitioner (NP)
This stage is often characterized by sobriety, self-awareness, and positive changes with the goal of long-term recovery. The pre-alcoholic stage marks the early period during which a person starts to engage in drinking. During this stage, alcohol consumption is typically moderate and infrequent, often in social or celebratory settings. Identifying problems with alcohol early can help prevent dependence and addiction. Medical treatment may be necessary to detoxify the body of alcohol and to obtain a fresh start.
Problem drinkers may also experience mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and sleep problems. 5 stages of alcoholism At this point, drinkers may experience relationship issues, decreased social activity, or a sudden change in friends. The final stage of the Jellinek Curve occurs when the person’s health stabilizes after they stop drinking. The person in recovery has transitioned through detox and immediate treatment to maintain sobriety. They continue to practice sober living habits to change their lives and support their ongoing efforts to manage their alcoholism and regain their life.
- The Jellinek Curve reminds us that addiction is not a life sentence but rather a treatable condition with a pathway to recovery.
- While alcoholism can occur in anyone, genetics do play a part.
- It can also reduce the triggers you face that could lead to a return to use.
Alcohol misuse and addiction can have harrowing and hazardous side effects at every phase. Effective, evidence-based treatment can help and recovery is possible. BetterHelp offers affordable mental health care via phone, video, or live-chat. Only about 5 percent of patients with alcohol withdrawal progress to DTs, but about 5 percent of these patients die. The affects can range from dementia and intellectual functioning to debilitating conditions that require long-term care, even https://ecosoberhouse.com/ if a person has been sober for a period of time.