Treatment of alcoholism: modern approaches, stages and effectiveness

Understanding the nature of dependence

Before starting Treatment of alcoholismit is important to realize that this is not just a bad habit or weakness of character. This is a medical disease recognized by the World Health Organization. It requires not only the elimination of symptoms, but also working with the root causes — mental, emotional and social.

Alcoholism has its own stages: on mild dependence, when a person loses control of the amount of drunk, to severe forms, accompanied by withdrawal syndrome, psychoses, and degradation of personality. At each stage, a different approach to treatment is required.

The first step is motivation and recognition of the problem

Treatment of alcoholism is impossible without the desire of the patient himself. The recognition of the problem is the most important stage. However, not every person is able to realize the destructiveness of his dependence. In this case, interventions, motivational conversations, and the participation of loved ones come to the rescue. The doctor’s task is not to crush, but delicately show the patient the consequences and opportunities of the exit.

Stage 1: detoxification and stopping withdrawal

The first medical stage in the treatment of alcoholism is the detoxification of the body. This is the process of the output of the decay products of ethanol and stabilization of the patient’s condition. Most often, it is accompanied by intravenous injections (droppers), the use of sedative, anticonvulsant, cardiological and hepatoprotective drugs.

If the patient has severe symptoms of withdrawal (trembling, sweating, insomnia, tachycardia, increased pressure, anxiety), it is important not to self -medicate, but to contact a narcologist. At home or in a hospital, doctors stop acute manifestations and prevent the development of complications — delirium (white fever), seizures and exacerbation of chronic diseases.

Stage 2: Stabilization and restoration

After detoxification, a period of stabilization occurs. The patient’s body is still vulnerable, and the psycho -emotional state is unstable. It is important to provide:

• normalization of sleep and appetite;

• restoration of the gastrointestinal tract;

• support for the cardiovascular and nervous systems;

• reception of vitamins, especially group B and magnesium;

• Psychological support and psychotherapy.

At this stage, non-drug methods can be connected-cognitive-behavioral therapy, art therapy, and bodily-oriented practices. The main goal is to form a stable motivation for sobriety in the patient.

Stage 3: Psychotherapy and Rehabilitation

Psychotherapeutic work is one of the key elements in the treatment of alcoholism. It is impossible to achieve without changing thinking and behavior of a sustainable result. Psychotherapy helps:

• identify psychological triggers of use;

• learn to cope with stress without alcohol;

• work out internal conflicts;

• Restore self -esteem and control over emotions.

Effective both individual and group classes are considered. Participation in rehabilitation programs or visiting self -help groups (for example, anonymous alcoholics) also significantly increases the chances of long -term recovery.

Rehabilitation can take place in a specialized center, where the patient is surrounded by professional support and is in a safe environment that excludes relapse.

Stage 4: Coding and pharmacotherapy

An additional method of treating alcoholism is drug coding. This can be either intramuscular injection and implantation of the drug that causes sharp intolerance to alcohol. The most famous drugs: Esperal, Teturam, Naltrexon.

The principle of operation lies in the fact that when trying to drink, the patient experiences extremely unpleasant sensations: nausea, headache, palpitations, panic attack. This forms a conditional reflex of disgust. However, it is important to understand that coding is effective only if there is motivation. The drug is not a panacea, but an auxiliary tool.

Stage 5: STECTIONAL SPECTIONS AND PREACTION OF DROMES

After the main course of treatment of alcoholism, it is important to continue observation by a specialist. Early detection of anxiety signs helps to prevent relapse. Many patients go through the so -called posttrack escort program:

• regular meetings with a psychotherapist;

• support in crisis moments;

• participation in sobriety groups;

• Assistance in restoring social ties, employment and self -determination.

It is important to involve recovery and loved ones in the process of recovery: often the co -dependence of relatives interferes with stable remission.

Individual approach — the basis of effective treatment

Each case of alcoholism is unique. Some patients need short -term support, others — long -term rehabilitation with subsequent observation. The choice of the method, terms and intensity of treatment should be done by an experienced narcologist based on the diagnosis, general condition and motivation of the patient.

Why is it important to treat alcoholism in a timely manner

Ignoring the problem exacerbates dependence. Alcohol destroys the liver, heart, vessels, provokes the development of oncology, pancreatitis, dementia, depression and suicidal behavior. The longer to tighten with treatment, the more difficult it is to return a person to a full life.

Modern narcology has effective means and assistance programs, so do not be afraid to seek support. Treatment of alcoholism is the path to freedom, restoration of health, family and human dignity.