Alcoholism is a potentially fatal disease that damages countless lives and relationships each year. Luckily, we now know more about the condition than ever before, meaning that there is a much better chance of a sufferer achieving lasting recovery and going on to live a happier and healthier life.
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported that about six Americans die each day from alcohol poisoning, and that most deaths resulting from alcohol abuse involve middle-aged adults rather than teenagers or college students.
According to the University of Texas at Austin, 10 to 15 percent of people who consume alcohol will develop the disease of alcohol dependence. Alcoholism is a serious disease that changes the reward pathways of the brain, making it impossible for a sufferer to quit drinking without extensive, professional intervention. The University of Texas also reported that recent brain scan studies have shown that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can actually change how the brain of an addict functions, providing a crucial step in the recovery process.
The professionals at Fairwinds treatment center have recognized the importance of therapeutic counseling in the rehabilitation process ever since its founding over 25 years ago. Dr. M.K. (Khal) El-Yousef founded the center and pioneered the dual diagnosis method of treatment, which uses both clinical treatment and professional therapy sessions as part of the healing journey.
Addictions are often triggered by underlying psychological, emotional and mental pain. This means that it's not enough to simply treat a patient for physical alcohol addiction. One must also treat the internal wounds that led to the condition in the first place. Otherwise, a relapse is all too probable, which will lead to a loss of confidence and will make it more difficult to seek treatment the next time around.
With the proper therapy, however, a patient can heal in body, mind and spirit and rejoin his or her family to lead a better life. We now know that alcoholism is a complex and layered condition that requires in-depth, holistic treatment.
If you think your family member or loved one is suffering from alcoholism, try to keep in mind that they're struggling with a disease. They can't just "stop drinking" when they want to, and they'll most likely need active medical treatment to recover. Recovery is possible, though, especially with the support of understanding family and friends who can create a healing-positive environment for the patient after treatment.
Contact Fairwinds Treatment Center today to find out about treatment options that might be right for your loved one. We are one of the top dual diagnosis treatment centers in the nation, and our experienced, caring and knowledgeable professionals are ready to help your family member on the road to recovery.
