Alcoholism treatment - What next?

Research carried out by the University of the West of England has predicted that the number of alcohol-related deaths could reach 90,800 within the next ten years - up from just 3,054 in 1984.

According to Alcohol Concern, which commissioned the study, Department of Health figures show that six per cent of men and two per cent of women are classed as dependent on the substance, with a large disparity in the number of people who need treatment for addiction and the quality of facilities available for individuals hoping to kick the habit. Furthermore, the NHS estimates that 6,000 fatalities from heart disease can be attributed to the effects of long-term drinking each year, while abuse of the substance is also thought to account for one-quarter of annual mouth cancer deaths.

Those who think they may have a drink problem were told by the body that cutting down on alcohol can lead to a number of mental and physical health benefits, including better skin, more energy and the halting of weight gain. Alcohol abusers looking to enjoy these advantages may be interested in the advice of "Alcohol Issues" - a website offering recommendations on rehabilitation - which said that while it might be considered a cliché, admitting to a problem is the first step on the way to pursuing treatment. The portal noted that friends and families must be supportive through this time, as coming to terms with alcohol abuse can be scary, particularly when the addiction is strong enough that the withdrawal symptoms are likely to be severe.

Many people hoping to overcome their alcohol dependence will try to tackle the issue at home, rather than seeking professional treatment, the information provider stated, so anyone in a supporting role should be prepared to see their loved ones go through body cramps, vomiting, sweating and shaking, as well as hallucinations in some cases. While not all instances of withdrawal will feature these ailments, fear and anxiety will be commonplace dilemmas and it is important that those who are addicted to the substance receive support until the physical dependency has eased.

People were advised that getting past this stage is only half the battle, however, as individuals who do not pursue counselling and therapy for their addiction are unlikely to find they can remain sober in the long-term. Importantly, those with drink problems must make a change in their behaviour, the organisation recommended, by switching their habits and exploring new hobbies in an effort to move away from a lifestyle that may have previously revolved around alcohol-related pursuits.

Looking for support from friends and family should be preferred to going it alone and while alcohol abusers may fall off the wagon occasionally, they have a much higher chance of staying sober permanently if they seek help for their problem, the website concluded.