Treatment of alcoholism: methods and chances of success 
Automatic translate
Alcoholism treatment is indicated for people suffering from alcohol dependence. In most cases, such treatment is required for those who have been diagnosed with alcoholism and are experiencing alcohol-related problems, both physical and psychological.
Treatment for alcoholism may be indicated for people who have a physical dependence on alcohol, which manifests itself in withdrawal symptoms when drinking is stopped, such as intense thirst, shaking hands, and loss of control over drinking alcoholic beverages.
Also, treatment can be recommended for people who have a psychological dependence on alcohol, which manifests itself in the desire to constantly consume alcohol and the inability to stop.
Treatment may include a variety of strategies, such as drug therapy (drugs that help reduce the desire to drink alcohol and cope with withdrawal symptoms), therapy programs and psychological counseling, both individual and group, and participation in rehabilitation programs.
How alcohol addiction is treated
For the treatment of alcohol dependence, various methods are used, which can be applied individually or in combination, depending on the needs and characteristics of each individual patient. The following are the main methods of treatment for alcoholism:
1. Drug therapy
This includes the use of certain medications to help eliminate or reduce the urge to drink alcohol and manage withdrawal symptoms. Some of the most widely used drugs include disulfiram (which causes unpleasant reactions when drinking alcohol) and naltrexone (which blocks the effect of alcohol on the brain).
2. Psychological support and counseling
- Individual Psychotherapy Sessions: The patient works with an experienced psychologist or psychotherapist to identify the causes and triggers of their alcohol addiction and develop strategies to help manage the urge to drink alcohol.
- Group sessions: These are gatherings of people suffering from alcoholism who share their experiences, support each other and learn new skills related to overcoming addiction.
- Family Therapy: Helps the family understand and overcome problems associated with alcohol addiction and teaches healthy communication strategies and support.
3. Rehabilitation programs
The rehab centers and program offer total immersion in the treatment of alcoholism, providing both medical and psychological monitoring services, counseling, group therapy, and social adjustment assistance.
4. Support through Alcoholics Anonymous and other self-help groups
These groups offer support from people who have similar experiences with alcoholism and provide mutual support and advice on rehab.
5. Professional programs to help owners of catering establishments
Owners of bars, restaurants and other public places can get programs to help them operate in accordance with the principles of responsible alcohol service and prevent alcohol addiction.
6. Medical supervision and care
Treatment for alcoholism may include medical supervision of the patient and the provision of an individualized care plan.
Alcohol dependence treatment is complex and may include a combination of these methods, as well as other individually tailored therapeutic approaches. Each case and each patient is unique, so the treatment plan must be tailored to the individual patient’s situation.
Chances of a successful outcome
The effectiveness of alcoholism treatment can vary greatly depending on various factors, including the degree of addiction, the presence of comorbid problems, and the patient’s motivation. However, it is generally accepted that treatment can be effective in helping people recover from addiction and achieve sobriety.
Statistics show that about 50% of people who go through an alcoholism treatment cycle continue to abstain from drinking for a year or more.
In addition, many studies show that a combination of drug therapy, psychological support, and rehabilitation programs can significantly increase the chances of successfully overcoming an alcohol problem.
Treatment of alcoholism is a complex process and may require time, patience and constant work on oneself. The success of treatment also depends on the extent to which the person is willing to change their lifestyle, avoid situations and environments conducive to alcohol consumption, restore relationships with loved ones and accept their support.
If treatment is given in the early stages of addiction and with the active participation of the patient, the chances of successfully overcoming addiction are usually higher. However, even if a person has returned to drinking or is experiencing a relapse, this does not mean that the treatment was ineffective. It is important to continue to support the patient, evaluate the causes of relapse, and adjust the treatment plan.
The final results and effectiveness of treatment depend on many factors, and each person may have an individual experience and success prognosis. To achieve the best results, it is important to seek qualified medical care and support from experienced professionals.