Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol abuse frequently occurs in response to stressful or traumatic life events. People who abuse alcohol are typically trying to numb or escape painful emotions that arise as a result of numerous situations. These may include the loss of a loved one whether by break-up or death, family illness, abuse whether verbal, emotional or physical, changing jobs or lifestyle, job loss, moving to a new place or returning home after serving in the military. These are just a few life events that may preclude or contribute to alcohol abuse.

Is Alcohol Abuse the same as Alcoholism?

Alcohol abuse may only be temporary or it may be the precursor to heavier alcohol usage, alcohol dependency and alcoholism. These terms are often used interchangeably but typically refer to varying degrees of alcohol use and the consequences that result. It’s important not to get caught up in the labels. A person who abuses alcohol may not be physically dependent upon it, yet. The question that always needs to be answered is whether alcohol abuse is creating problems with your responsibilities and your relationships – even if the relationship is with yourself. If you’re turning to alcohol to cope with life, whether this is the first time or a continuing pattern, you are setting the stage for alcohol dependency and alcoholism. Escaping or numbing emotions through alcohol may work temporarily, but in the long run it will create more problems. There are healthier ways to handle life transitions, stress and trauma.

Statistically alcohol abuse does lead to alcohol dependency, which is another word for alcoholism. If you find yourself reaching for alcohol to cope with your life, it’s vital to get help before your alcohol abuse spirals out of control. At SouthCoast Recovery, we offer clinical therapy, marriage and family therapy and drug and alcohol counseling to help individuals learn how to cope with life without alcohol and drugs. Our clinical therapist has nearly 44 years experience helping individuals address and resolve underlying issues that are contributing to drug and alcohol abuse. In addition, you are assigned an individual drug and alcohol counselor for the duration of your alcohol treatment program and can schedule individual sessions even following treatment. At SouthCoast Recovery, we maintain a 24/7 open door policy for our alumni and encourage family participation at all levels of recovery.

How do you treat Alcohol Abuse?

Don’t wait until your alcohol abuse spirals into alcohol dependency. If you are reaching for alcohol to deal with life, you are well on your way to alcohol dependency and alcoholism. The time to arrest it is now, before it gets worse. Alcohol abuse is symptomatic of underlying issues that need to be addressed. SouthCoast Recovery has 24 hour intake coordinators who can answer any questions you may have about our alcohol treatment program. Call us today!