Maui Recovery offers a distinctive path to alcohol treatment. Recognizing the complexities of alcohol addiction, we integrate evidence-based practices with our unique narrative-driven healing approach. Our skilled clinicians delve deep, addressing not just the symptoms but the root causes of dependency. Through a fusion of traditional therapies and our “Hero’s Journey” framework, we help individuals regain control, rediscover their sense of self, and craft a fulfilling, alcohol-free future
What is Alcohol Addiction?
Alcohol addiction is a multifaceted problem that affects numerous aspects of an individual’s life, from personal relationships and work to overall mental and physical health. While many perceive alcohol as a socially acceptable substance, its potential for misuse can lead to devastating consequences not only for the individual but also for their family, friends, and community.
Recognizing the signs early and understanding the consequences is crucial for prevention and early intervention. By staying informed, you can make better choices and seek the necessary help when faced with the challenges of alcohol addiction.
There isn’t an exact formula to determine whether someone is suffering from alcohol addiction, but symptoms often co-occur. Some of the most common symptoms that we see when it comes to alcohol addiction are as follows:
Symptoms
Irritability and extreme mood swings
Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to heightened levels of irritability, frequent mood swings, and unprovoked outbursts of anger. It disrupts the balance of chemicals and processes in the brain, often causing emotional instability and unpredictability that strain interpersonal relationships.
Isolation from family and friends
People struggling with alcoholism may begin to withdraw from social gatherings and activities they once enjoyed, choosing instead to drink alone. This self-isolation often results from the guilt and shame associated with their excessive drinking, creating a vicious cycle that perpetuates the addiction.
Feeling hungover when not drinking
An individual with an alcohol addiction may experience withdrawal symptoms, like a constant hangover, even when they’re not drinking. This could include headaches, nausea, anxiety, and tremors. It signifies a physical dependency on alcohol, where the body has adapted to its presence and reacts negatively when alcohol levels decrease.
Sudden change in appearance or acquaintances
Alcohol addiction can cause noticeable changes in personal grooming habits and physical appearance due to neglect. Similarly, individuals might change their circle of friends, gravitating towards those who also drink heavily. These shifts can often indicate a deeper struggle with alcohol dependency.
Statistics on Alcohol
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), “85.6% of adults aged 18 and up have drunk alcohol in their life”. They also report that more than ¼ of people older than 18 binge drank in the last 30 days while the survey was being conducted.
These statistics show just how prevalent alcohol use and addiction is.
This research also revealed that there are nearly half a million children (aged 7 to 12) that are struggling with alcohol use disorder. It’s clear, now more than ever, that more awareness about this issue is needed. At Maui Recovery, we’re dedicated to helping people break free from alcohol addiction, and provide the best options available for treating it.
