There is no specific reason people head down the spiraling road to addiction. Some people choose to drink alcohol due to heartbreak, peer pressure, trauma, environmental factors, and more. Others choose to drink to self-medicate and mask a mental health condition. Going through the waves of alcohol use disorder (AUD) alone can feel defeating for some individuals. Because of this, there can be great value in professional treatment for addiction. Antabuse treatment in combination with various behavioral therapies with 12 South Recovery can significantly improve one’s quality of life.
What Is Alcohol Use Disorder?
According to Medline Plus, AUD is a chronic disease that can cause significant harm and distress. This condition is characterized by uncontrolled drinking. When an individual’s physical and mental health is at risk yet they choose to continue to drink alcoholic beverages, this qualifies as AUD. An individual’s condition may have varying levels of severity. A person facing challenges with AUD may present different behaviors. These behaviors may include:
- An inability to control or limit alcohol intake
- Feeling irritable, anxious, or stressed when not drinking
- Having strained relationships
- Experiencing intense cravings for alcohol
- Having difficulty functioning in the workplace
- Avoiding social events to drink alone
- Having irregular sleeping patterns
- Developing a high tolerance to alcohol that leads to addiction
The Value of Professional Treatment
Many people who are having difficulty discontinuing alcohol consumption would like to find help but are not familiar with the steps to take. Professional treatment can help individuals learn to recognize their emotions, cope more successfully, and put new skills into action. Treatment specialists can help people with AUD increase their self-esteem and use techniques to change their outlook on life.
Researching different treatment facilities that can tailor the right services to an individual’s needs can be a healthy start. For example, 12 South Recovery has a team of professionals who focus on the benefits of different treatment options. Available types of care may include:
- Detox
- Residential treatment
- Behavioral therapies
- Dual-diagnosis treatment
- Outpatient treatment
- Case management
- Holistic therapies (yoga, mindfulness, breathwork, equine therapy)
- Relapse prevention programs
- Aftercare
Benefits of Antabuse Treatment
Addictive substances can alter one’s thinking process and cause chemical changes in the brain and body. In some cases, these changes can cause uncontrollable cravings. In cases like these, skilled clinicians will sometimes administer medication to ease the brain and body’s transition to sobriety. When medication is used as part of a treatment plan, this is called medication-assisted treatment (MAT). According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a variety of medications can be used to help treat AUD. Some prescription medications can also help relieve an individual’s withdrawal symptoms.
Most medications used for treatment are split into five different schedules to prevent potential misuse. A specific dose is prescribed and people are monitored to prevent an overdose. The drugs prescribed are classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for treatment purposes only.
Although these drugs will not cure AUD, they are known to be very effective for individuals who are having problems coping with withdrawal symptoms. For example, Antabuse (generic name disulfiram) is a treatment used for habitual alcohol use. This drug is one of the most effective treatment options to help those with AUD stop consuming alcoholic beverages and maintain abstinence. Antabuse treatment can help a person safely find physical and mental stability.
Side Effects From Drinking Alcohol With Antabuse Treatment
Antabuse can be taken orally and should never be taken with alcohol, as this medication is designed as a deterrent to drinking. Unpleasant side effects can occur just ten minutes after consuming even the smallest quantity of alcohol. Symptoms can range from moderate to severe. The side effects may include:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Chest pains
- Difficulty breathing
- Hyperventilation
- Low blood pressure
- Confusion
Moving Forward in Early Recovery
For some people, early recovery may not go as planned, and that is perfectly normal. To prevent a relapse, it is crucial to continue to use the skills learned in therapy outside of treatment. Taking medications as prescribed and continuing to participate in treatment can improve one’s chances of achieving long-term sobriety.
When someone is in early recovery, they have to make sacrifices to stay sober. One of the first steps to take is to let go of friends who continue to drink. This can be difficult for some people, as it can leave them feeling lonely. However, participating in new sober activities can invite like-minded friends into one’s life who may be a good influence. Choosing to do sober activities can be a healthy alternative to going to bars or clubs and drinking with the wrong circle of friends. “Out of sight, out of mind” is the best way to go.
Seeking New Sources of Support
Participating In group therapy with others who are facing challenges in recovery can also be a great way to meet other people with similar goals. Drinking healthy fluids such as lemon water, juices, and protein shakes instead of just plain water can be an enjoyable alternative.
Finding support from friends and family outside of professional treatment can also help keep a person in a positive state of mind. The longer a person goes without drinking, the less they crave alcohol. Every day sober makes a major difference. Long-term sobriety is possible.
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) can be difficult to live with. Participating in different therapies and programs can help a person learn effective strategies to cope. In recovery, sometimes it may be challenging to ward off cravings. Fortunately, Antabuse treatment is a strategy that can help. This medication works as a deterrent to alcohol consumption, thereby eliminating the desire for it. Millions of Americans struggle with AUD. Our team at 12 South Recovery understands that AUD is a brain disease that can affect one’s behavior, personality, and priorities. We are here every step of the way for our clients. If you or a loved one are in need of professional support, please contact 12 South Recovery today at (888) 830-8374.
