How to help an alcoholic

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Is your loved one suffering from Alcohol Use Disorder?

If someone you love is suffering from alcohol use disorder you may start to notice behaviors that alert you to having a cause for concern. As a witness to someone who is experiencing alcohol use disorder you may find yourself rationalizing their behavior or thinking you’re overreacting. This is common for those of having a loved one who a suffering from alcohol use disorder. When someone is controlled by alcohol addiction they may hide how much they drink, lie about their volume of consumption, or deny they have a problem - sometimes gaslighting the person accusing them of an issue.

To best help your loved one and ultimately have them seek help for their disease, you must first understand the illness and what contributes to this condition. The following discusses the stages of addiction development, the risk factors to be aware of, how to help an alcoholic in denial, how alcoholism is diagnosed, and what effective treatment looks like.

Step One — Understanding

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, an alcohol use disorder (AUD) is when one can no longer control their use of alcohol, compulsively use it despite its negative ramifications, and/or experience emotional distress when they are not drinking.

AUD is a chronic, relapsing disease that is diagnosed based on an individual meeting certain criteria outlined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) also explains that because alcohol use disorder is a disease, it is an involuntary disability. This means that although people choose to drink initially, it may be out of their control to quit once they become addicted.

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to solving alcohol use disorder. It is a multifaceted and complex disease that can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, sex, or economic standing and class.

Step Two - Research Treatment Facilities

Treatment is a very individual process - there are multi-factors that go into deciding which is the best course of action to take. Certain factors such as previous treatment services received, current alcohol use and the physical dependance associated with said use, and any co-occurring medical and/or mental health conditions and any additional substance use.

Seeking the guidance of a professional can significantly help both the person who is sick and the family surrounding them. The variety of options available can include intensive-out-patient (IOP) services, group services such as Alcoholics Anonymous, one-on-one therapy with a trained professional, and rehabilitation in-patient facilities.

Step Three - Communicate

As with any healthy relationship, communication is key. Often times, those who need help with a drinking problem may not immediately be receptive to discussing treatment or seeking help. Because of this, it may take a few conversations before they are willing to discuss treatment. Committing to getting sober and seeking help takes courage, be patient and compassionate while also maintaining your own mental health wellness.

Before talking with them, it may be helpful to speak with a healthcare provider who specializes in addiction to obtain guidance on how to get help for alcoholism. Once you’ve done that, choose a time to sit down with them when they are sober so they can better process what you are saying.

Understanding Sexual Assault

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What IS Sexual Assault?

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and we wanted to shed a light on what actually constitutes sexual assault. Sexual violence happens in every community and affects people of all ages, race, religion, and sexual orientation. Sexual violence is any type of unwanted sexual interaction. This includes words and actions of a sexual nature against a person’s will and without their consent. A person may use force, threats, manipulation, or coercion to commit sexual violence.

Forms of sexual violence include:

• Rape or sexual assault

• Child sexual assault and incest

• Sexual assault by a person’s spouse or partner

• Unwanted sexual contact/touching

• Sexual harassment

• Sexual exploitation and trafficking

• Exposing one’s genitals or naked body to other(s) without consent

• Masturbating in public

• Watching someone engage in private acts without their knowledge or permission

• Nonconsensual image sharing

Our staff have a vast experience of working with clients who have traumatic pasts that include sexual assault. We understand the delicate nature of this topic and believe trust and respect for the victim is of the upmost importance. If you would like to work with one of our staff therapists please contact our office to schedule an appointment.

Signs & Symptoms of Alcoholism

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Signs of someone with alcohol use disorder

April is Alcohol Awareness Month - understanding what to look for if you, or a loved one is suffering from alcohol use disorder allows you to be aware of the signs sooner to then seek help. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. It encompasses the conditions that some people refer to as alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence, alcohol addiction, and the colloquial term, alcoholism.

We have outlined a list of signs to be aware of if you believe yourself, or someone you love may be suffering with alcohol use disorder.

• Feeling powerless to control one’s level of alcohol use

• Declining to engage in social activities or hobbies that used to be of interest

• Having a desire to stop or decrease drinking but being unable to do so

• Using alcohol in high-risk situations, such as while swimming or driving

• Devoting significant time and resources to drinking

• Developing a tolerance for alcohol (i.e., needing more alcohol over time to match the feelings from earlier use)

• Experiencing cravings for alcohol when not drinking

• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking (e.g., cravings, sweating, shaking, and nausea)

• Facing problems at work, home, or school because of alcohol use

• In reaction to the discomfort associated with withdrawal, having to drink to feel better

• Continuing to use alcohol even when it is leading to social, physical, relationship, and personal problems

If you need help for yourself, or a loved one, we can help. Please call our office to schedule an appointment with one of our expert staff therapists.

To speak with someone at the National Drug and Alcohol Treatment Hotline, please dial 1-800-662-HELP(4357).

If you are experiencing an emergency or crisis, please dial 911.