Alcohol use disorder is prevalent among Americans, affecting millions yearly. Those who do not understand addiction may think it is easy to overcome or simply a matter of willpower. An alcohol use disorder can be life-threatening and difficult to treat without professional help. Understanding alcohol dependence is the first step toward helping a loved one or friend get into a treatment program that can change their life.
If you or someone you care about needs alcohol addiction treatment near Dallas, look no further than Fort Behavioral Health. Those who seek our treatment promptly often have improved success rates in recovery. If you aren’t sure where to turn, call us today at 844.332.1807 so we can help.
What Causes Alcohol Dependence?
Each person has unique circumstances, and as such, there are various reasons why they can become dependent on alcohol. For some, drinking is a way to cope with stress, trauma, or difficult life experiences. Others may use alcohol as a social lubricant or a way to escape reality. In some cases, people start using alcohol as a form of self-medication for physical or mental health problems.
With regular use, a person’s body can develop a tolerance to alcohol, meaning they need more to achieve the desired effect. As a result, their alcohol consumption may steadily increase, eventually causing physical dependence.
Signs of Alcohol Dependence
Surprisingly, a person doesn’t need to drink excessively to become dependent on alcohol. Someone who drinks regularly, even only socially, may have some degree of alcohol dependence. One of the earliest signs is a gradual increase in alcohol consumption to feel its effects. As a person becomes increasingly dependent, they might spend more of their time drinking.
If you are concerned about yourself or someone you care about, you can watch out for some of the significant warning signs of alcohol dependence:
- Anxiety or depression
- Poor coordination
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms upon stopping alcohol consumption
- Agitation and restlessness
- Difficulty fulfilling home, work, and school obligations
- Being unable to stop consuming alcohol
- Having difficulty functioning without having a drink
If you or a loved one has any of these symptoms, immediate treatment can prevent further harm to physical and mental health.
What Are the Dangers of Alcohol Addiction?
Alcohol addiction can have a significant impact on mental health. Those dependent on alcohol may experience mood swings due to changes in brain chemistry caused by drinking. Depression and anxiety are also common among people with alcohol use disorders. Additionally, alcohol dependence can lead to impulsive behavior that may increase the risk of accidents and harm to oneself or others.
Alcohol dependence may also affect physical health. Those who have been drinking for an extended time typically have a greater risk for:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Liver damage
- Certain types of cancer, including throat and pancreatic cancer
- Nerve damage that causes numbness in the hands and feet
Furthermore, alcohol dependence can lead to financial trouble, as any spare cash may go toward buying beer, wine, or liquor. In addition, those addicted to alcohol often have difficulty fulfilling work responsibilities, putting them at risk of losing their jobs. Unemployment may cause stress and anxiety, especially for those without a financial safety net, increasing the risk of drinking.
Contact Fort Behavioral Health for Alcohol Addiction Treatment Near Dallas
Overcoming alcohol dependence can be incredibly challenging, but it is possible at Fort Behavioral Health. We understand that developing an alcohol use disorder doesn’t mean a person is a failure. Addiction is a disease, but our professional treatment makes lasting recovery possible.
At Fort Behavioral Health, we help clients regain sobriety and live productive lives. Our alcohol addiction treatment center is a safe, private location where you can focus solely on recovery. Contact us at 844.332.1807, or reach us through our website to learn more about what we offer.
