Alcoholism affects millions of people across the world, making it one of the most serious public health issues. This is why finding a suitable treatment approach that addresses individual needs and goals is essential for anyone trying to manage their drinking habits. Depending on your circumstances, there are several evidence-based therapy options to help overcome alcoholism. Let’s take a look at some of the therapies available and how they can be used to safely reduce or abstain from alcohol consumption.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
A reputable rehab for alcoholics in NJ offers hope and support. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy is one of the techniques that they put into practice to ensure you are free from alcoholism. CBT is a widely popular form of psychotherapy that emphasizes the role of thoughts and behaviors in shaping an individual’s emotions and behaviors. It was initially developed to treat depression and anxiety disorders, but it has since been successfully applied to a wide range of mental health conditions, including AUD. The central objective of CBT in treating alcoholism is to help individuals change their negative thought patterns and behaviors that are contributing to their alcohol consumption.
One of CBT’s primary techniques in treating alcoholism is cognitive restructuring. This involves challenging and changing negative thoughts that lead to drinking and replacing them with positive ones. According to the American Psychological Association, CBT can help alcoholics develop coping skills, identify and avoid situations that tend to trigger their alcohol cravings, build social support networks, and stay motivated to stay sober.
Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET)
Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) is a highly effective and evidence-based treatment option for alcoholism that is widely sought after by individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. This therapy approach is grounded in the belief that individuals struggling with alcoholism are more likely to recover when they are motivated to do so. MET aims to increase the patient’s intrinsic motivation to make healthier choices regarding alcohol use by exploring their ambivalence and helping them identify and resolve any barriers to change.
MET is a collaborative approach between the patient and the therapist. Through active listening and empathizing, the therapist encourages the patient to explore their feelings, experiences, and beliefs regarding alcoholism. This approach helps to establish a strong therapeutic relationship that is crucial to the patient’s recovery from alcohol addiction.
Research has shown that MET has a higher success rate than traditional approaches to alcoholism treatment, leading many to consider it the gold standard in addiction therapy. Studies have shown that patients who receive MET are more likely to complete treatment and maintain long-term recovery from alcohol addiction. This can be attributed to the unique approach used by MET, which focuses on setting realistic goals and tailors the therapy approach to suit individual needs and preferences.
Contingency Management (CM)
Acting as a powerful behavioral intervention technique, CM has been proven to be incredibly successful in addressing problematic drinking behaviors in individuals struggling with alcoholism.
What sets CM apart from other treatment options is its ability to reinforce positive behaviors. This type of therapy uses a system of rewards, typically in the form of some type of tangible incentive, to encourage patients to abstain from alcohol. This can take many forms, from gift certificates to a favorite restaurant to special privileges or activities. The key is to quickly and consistently reward behavior that leads to sobriety.
Why is this approach so effective? First, it bypasses the issue of denial that so often impedes traditional talk therapy. By providing concrete and immediate rewards, CM helps to remind individuals why they are seeking treatment and gives them an alternative focus to alcohol. It also helps to reinforce the natural rewards associated with sobriety, such as improved health and better relationships.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
MAT combines behavioral therapy with medications that are specifically designed to support recovery from alcohol use disorders. This approach can help individuals struggling with alcoholism manage cravings, reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms, and mitigate the risk of relapse.
The FDA-approved medication called naltrexone is the one that is commonly used in this process. This medication helps to block the euphoric effects of alcohol and reduce cravings, which in turn can make it easier for individuals to maintain sobriety. Another medication called acamprosate has been shown to help reduce the negative symptoms that often come with alcohol withdrawal, such as anxiety and sleep disturbances.
The great thing about MAT is that it is customizable to each individual’s unique needs, as medications can be tailored to each person’s specific symptoms and needs. MAT offers more than just symptom management, though. It also provides support and resources that are crucial for long-term recovery. For instance, behavioral therapies can be incorporated providing the individual with sustainable skills to manage stress and maintain sobriety long term.
Alcoholism treatment is a complex and often difficult process, but it’s possible for anyone who chooses to commit themselves to the journey. It can be daunting navigating the different options, but making an informed decision appropriate for each individual’s needs and situation can make all the difference. May you find inner peace and solace on your path to healing as you move forward with whatever alcoholism therapy option best suits you. Remember that treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy have been scientifically proven effective in helping individuals obsessed with alcohol come to terms with their addiction. After all, freedom from addiction does not come easily, but it is achievable.
