Fortunately, there are effective treatment options available for alcohol addiction. You'll learn about the physical symptoms, treatment options, and long-term effects of the disorder.

Mental health disorder

Approximately 17 million adults in the U.S. have alcohol addiction and a mental health disorder at the same time. These disorders can be difficult to diagnose, so it is important to recognize them. It is also important to know how to treat them, since many people experience relapses during treatment.

People with alcohol addiction and a mental health disorder are at increased risk of suicide. This is because alcohol uses the brain chemical systems to alter brain function, making the person more likely to engage in risky behavior. Moreover, it is also known to have disinhibiting properties, which may release aggressive antisocial behaviors.

Alcoholism is often accompanied by other psychiatric disorders, such as depression. People who suffer from alcohol abuse may exhibit signs of psychosis and anxiety.

Alcoholism is a chronic mental health disorder, and requires comprehensive treatment. Symptoms are variable, depending on how much alcohol the person consumes, and the length of time he or she has been drinking. Symptoms also may cluster over weeks or months.

Physical symptoms

Symptoms of alcohol addiction can include mood swings, lapses in memory and a change in social habits. These may be symptoms of a deeper psychological issue. If you think you or a loved one may have alcohol addiction, it's best to consult a doctor or trusted support person.

Alcohol addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a chronic disease that can be difficult to detect early. Often, people with alcoholism are in denial or hide the problem out of fear. However, it's important to seek treatment to stop the cycle of destruction.

Some of the physical symptoms of alcohol addiction include headaches, nausea, trembling, fever, irregular heart rate, and hallucinations. People with alcohol withdrawal symptoms can also experience seizures.

Alcoholism affects the brain, and the chemicals that control emotions and memory. When you drink alcohol, the ethanol disrupts the neurotransmitters in the brain. This causes the brain to feel pleasure, and then triggers addictive behaviors. It also affects the pancreas and liver.

Treatment options

Depending on your specific needs, there are many alcohol addiction treatment options available. These may include inpatient or outpatient treatment.

The first step in alcohol addiction treatment is often a medical detox program. The process of detoxifying the body helps clear the body of toxic substances and prepares the mind for recovery. With medical supervision, the process can be performed at home.

Alcohol addiction treatment options include a variety of programs, including outpatient therapy, residential rehab, and intensive outpatient programs. The best program for you depends on your needs and budget.

Outpatient treatment programs usually involve group counseling. They may also include medication assistance. However, it's important to use these treatments in combination with other therapies. The goal of therapy is to help the addict learn new skills and understand the root cause of the addiction.

Alcohol addiction treatment options also include cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. Both focus on changing dysfunctional behaviors and exposing irrational beliefs.

An inpatient treatment program requires the addict to live at the treatment center for a specified amount of time. Treatment may include group counseling, behavioral therapy, and meals.

Long-term effects

Taking alcohol can affect a person in both the short and long term. Alcohol can lead to serious health issues that will affect the person in the long term.

Alcohol can damage the brain and other organs. Alcohol can also decrease the ability of the heart to contract and pump blood.

Alcohol can also cause problems with the kidneys. This is due to toxins in alcohol causing inflammation in the liver and kidneys.

Alcohol can also damage the lining of the stomach. The inflammation is called gastritis. This can also lead to chronic pancreatitis.

Alcohol can also damage the throat and mouth. This can cause lumps, sores, and difficulty chewing and speaking. Alcohol can also cause heart problems, including chest pain, irregular heartbeats, and high blood pressure.

Alcohol can also damage the kidneys, causing kidney failure. The kidneys are responsible for flushing alcohol out of the body. The longer you drink, the more trouble you will have flushing it out.

Alcohol abuse can also lead to psychological problems. People with alcohol abuse are prone to depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. They can also neglect their family, children, and financial responsibilities. They may also act irrationally or aggressively.