Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol addiction is a serious medical condition and public health concern, affecting millions of Americans. For someone with an addiction, it can be extremely difficult to control drinking even when it causes harm. 

Whether you or a loved one is struggling, taking the first step toward recovery can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. 

With the right treatment and support, recovery is possible. Explore how our treatment options at Summit at Harmony Oaks can help you begin your journey toward a healthier, brighter future, alcohol-free.

What to Know About Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol addiction, also called alcohol use disorder (AUD), occurs when you lose control over how much or how often you drink. Even when drinking harms your health or relationships, stopping can feel overwhelming.

Since alcohol is legal and socially accepted, it’s often hard to notice the signs of AUD early. Family and friends usually realize there’s a problem only after it starts affecting your health, relationships, or daily life.

You might spot alcohol addiction if someone spends most of their time drinking, can’t cut back, or starts skipping work, social events, or responsibilities to drink.

Alcohol addiction is unfortunately very common. In 2023, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) found that 29.5 million people aged 12 and older in the U.S. struggled with AUD.

But with alcohol treatment options at Summit at Harmony Oaks, you can find support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous, therapies, and other services to help you stop drinking and reclaim your life.

A man lying with his head resting on his arm at a table, holding a glass of whiskey. He appears reflective or contemplative. The table surface reflects the glass and his arm, creating a mirrored effect. The background is blurred.
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Common Causes of Alcohol Addiction

Drinking regularly rewires your brain over time, making it difficult to return to normal without alcohol. And as your brain adjusts to constant drinking, you may struggle to stop. 

You might also experience withdrawal symptoms, like anxiety or shaking, between drinks, which can pull you deeper into the cycle of addiction.

The more often you drink, the harder it becomes to manage cravings and avoid discomfort, leading to dependence. Without support, this pattern can be difficult to break.

Early intervention from loved ones and access to the right treatment can help you regain control and reduce the impact of alcohol addiction.

Who Is at Risk of Alcohol Addiction?

Anyone can develop alcohol addiction, but some factors increase the likelihood. Understanding these risk factors can help you recognize when someone may need support.

Key risk factors for developing an alcohol use disorder include:

  • Unstable home environment: Growing up with neglect, abuse, or a caregiver struggling with addiction can normalize unhealthy drinking behaviors.
  • Genetics: If there’s a family history of a parent or close family member having an alcohol addiction, you are more likely to develop it.
  • Early drinking: Starting to drink during adolescence raises the chance of future alcohol problems, especially with frequent binge drinking.
  • Mental health challenges or trauma: Stress, mental health disorders, or traumatic experiences can lead you to use alcohol as a way to cope.
  • Easy access to alcohol: If alcohol is readily available, the chances of developing addiction increase.
  • Unstable home environment: Growing up with neglect, abuse, or a caregiver struggling with addiction can normalize unhealthy drinking behaviors.

Signs & Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol addiction affects more than just your body. It also impacts your mood, behavior, and relationships. But recognizing these signs can help you know when it’s time to seek help.

Some common symptoms of an alcohol dependence include:

  • Cravings
  • Relationship issues
  • Loss of control
  • Time drinking
  • Failed attempts to cut back
  • Neglecting responsibilities
  • Avoiding activities
  • Risky behavior
  • Health issues
  • Increased tolerance
  • Withdrawal symptoms

Alcohol addiction is not a choice, even though it may seem that way to others. What you can choose is to seek the support you need to get back on track and break free from the addiction cycle. Contact our team to take the first step.

Most Insurance Accepted

As a member of the Harmony Health Group family of treatment programs, we are able to work with many private insurance plans.

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Different Types of Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol abuse shows up in different ways, and it’s not always easy to recognize. Some people drink heavily every day, while others might only binge drink on weekends. 

Understanding these patterns — binge drinking, heavy drinking, and alcohol use disorder — can help you figure out if drinking has become a health problem for you or someone you care about.

Binge Drinking

Binge drinking happens when you drink enough alcohol in a short time to raise your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 0.08% or higher. For women, this usually means four or more drinks within two hours, while for men, it’s five or more drinks.

Teenagers can also binge drink, with as few as three drinks for girls or up to five for boys, depending on their size and age.

Heavy Drinking

Heavy drinking means having large amounts of alcohol regularly. Women who drink four or more drinks a day, or eight or more per week, fall into this category. For men, it’s five or more drinks daily or at least 15 drinks per week.

Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol use disorder can look different for everyone. Some people may meet the criteria for addiction, even if their drinking doesn’t seem to affect their job or personal life.

This pattern, sometimes called high-functioning alcoholism, can still cause serious long-term health risks.

Effects of Alcohol Addiction

In the short term, alcohol may reduce stress or numb negative feelings, but it also comes with risks. These side effects can lead to accidents, poor decisions, and strained relationships.

Some common short-term effects of alcohol addiction include:

  • Blackouts
  • Dizziness
  • Memory loss
  • Slurred speech
  • Impaired coordination
  • Reduced inhibitions
  • Blurred vision

Some warning signs of long-term health consequences include:

  • High blood pressure
  • Liver disease, including cirrhosis and liver cancer
  • Heart disease and increased risk of stroke
  • Digestive problems
  • Mental health disorders
  • Seizures
  • Impaired brain function

Long-term alcohol addiction can cause life-threatening health conditions that are harder to reverse the longer they go untreated. Over a longer period of time, drinking can take a serious toll on your physical and mental health.

Alcohol Treatment Options at Summit at Harmony Oaks

A woman with long dark hair stands outdoors with her arms outstretched and eyes closed, embracing the sunlight. She is wearing an orange top and a light shirt, surrounded by greenery with a serene expression.

At Summit at Harmony Oaks, we offer a range of evidence-based alcohol treatment programs designed to meet your individual needs.

Treatment options include detox services, residential programs, and outpatient programs, with mental health support available for co-occurring conditions.

Detox Services

Alcohol detox can be dangerous without medical support, as withdrawal symptoms may include seizures or even life-threatening complications. 

At Summit at Harmony Oaks, our detox programs provide 24/7 supervision, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and personalized care to ensure your safety and comfort.

Medical professionals monitor your progress and manage symptoms, helping reduce cravings and prevent relapse.

Residential Programs

Residential treatment offers a structured living environment where you receive intensive therapy and support. You’ll participate in individual and group counseling, develop coping skills, and access holistic services like meditation and yoga. 

Staying in a residential program allows you to fully focus on recovery while building the skills needed for long-term sobriety.

Outpatient Programs

Outpatient programs offer treatment for alcohol addiction while allowing you to live at home. You’ll attend therapy sessions and counseling, often focusing on coping skills, managing cravings, and addressing mental health conditions. 

These programs provide flexibility, making them ideal if you need to balance recovery with work, school, or family obligations. Outpatient care works best when you have a stable home environment and supportive loved ones.

Mental Health Treatment

Taking care of your mental health is an important part of recovery. 

At Summit at Harmony Oaks, you’ll find support for a wide range of mental health challenges, including:

  • ADHD 
  • Anxiety 
  • Bipolar disorder 
  • Depression 
  • OCD
  • Personality disorder
  • PTSD
  • Schizophrenia
  • Suicidal thoughts

Find Treatment for Alcohol Addiction at Summit at Harmony Oaks

Contact Us

At Summit at Harmony Oaks, we know that taking the first step toward recovery isn’t easy. That’s why we offer a safe, supportive environment where you can heal and rebuild your life with personalized care.

We work with in-network insurance providers to make treatment accessible, so cost won’t stand in your way. Whether you’re seeking freedom from alcohol or another substance use disorder, our team is here to guide you with care, compassion, and hope.

You deserve a life free from addiction. If you or a loved one is ready for a new beginning, contact us today. A healthier future is within reach, and we’re here to help you get there.

Alcohol Addiction FAQs

What is considered addiction to alcohol?

Alcohol addiction, or alcohol use disorder (AUD), is when someone loses control over their drinking, continues despite harm, and experiences cravings or alcohol withdrawal symptoms. It affects physical health, relationships, and responsibilities, making it difficult to stop without help.

How to get out of alcohol addiction?

Overcoming alcohol addiction involves seeking professional treatment through detox programs, counseling, or support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Combining therapy with lifestyle changes and support from family members or healthcare providers improves the chances of long-term recovery.

What is the main cause of alcohol addiction?

Alcohol addiction develops from a mix of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Drinking at an early age, high stress, mental health issues, and easy access to alcohol all increase the risk of developing an addiction over time.

What makes a person an alcoholic?

A person with alcohol addiction relies on alcohol to cope with stress or emotions. They may prioritize drinking over responsibilities, struggle to control how much they drink, and experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop drinking.

Can alcohol addiction be life-threatening?

Yes, alcohol addiction can cause severe health conditions like liver disease, heart problems, and brain damage. Sudden withdrawal from heavy drinking can also trigger life-threatening seizures or other complications without medical supervision.

Sources

  1. Alcoholics Anonymous. “What is A.A.?” Retrieved from: https://www.aa.org/what-is-aa. Accessed October 13, 2024.
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Alcohol Use and Your Health.” Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-use.htm. Accessed October 13, 2024.
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Excessive Alcohol Use.” Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/factsheets/alcohol.htm. Accessed October 13, 2024.
  4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “What is Excessive Alcohol Use?” Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/onlinemedia/infographics/excessive-alcohol-use.html. Accessed October 13, 2024.
  5. Cleveland Clinic. “Alcohol Use Disorder.” Retrieved from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/3909-alcoholism. Accessed October 13, 2024.
  6. Mayo Clinic. “Alcohol Use Disorder.” Retrieved from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alcohol-use-disorder/. Accessed October 13, 2024.
  7. National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics. “Alcohol Abuse Statistics.” Retrieved from: https://drugabusestatistics.org/alcohol-abuse-statistics/. Accessed October 13, 2024.
  8. National Institute on Aging. “How to Help Someone You Know Who Drinks Too Much.” Retrieved from: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alcohol-misuse-or-alcohol-use-disorder/how-help-someone-you-know-who-drinks-too-much. Accessed October 13, 2024.
  9. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. “Alcohol and the Brain: An Overview.” Retrieved from: https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/alcohol-and-brain-overview. Accessed October 13, 2024.
  10. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. “Drinking Levels Defined.” Retrieved from: https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/moderate-binge-drinking. Accessed October 13, 2024.
  11. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. “Risk Factors: Varied Vulnerability to Alcohol-Related Harm.” Retrieved from: https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/health-professionals-communities/core-resource-on-alcohol/risk-factors-varied-vulnerability-alcohol-related-harm. Accessed October 13, 2024.
  12. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. “The Cycle of Alcohol Addiction.” Retrieved from: https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/cycle-alcohol-addiction. Accessed October 13, 2024.
  13. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. “Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder.” Retrieved from: https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder. Accessed October 13, 2024.
  14. National Library of Medicine. “An Overview of Outpatient and Inpatient Detoxification.” Alcohol Health and Research World. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6761814/. Accessed October 13, 2024.
  15. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. “Alcohol.” Retrieved from: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/atod/alcohol. Accessed October 13, 2024.
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