In many cases, the first step of treating alcoholism is acknowledging there is a problem. As with many health problems the second step is to seek help from a professional. You could also use the mutual help groups: Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is widely available, free and there is no waiting list: just phone their helpline, turn up and watch how they help each other.
A doctor will diagnose alcoholism when three or more of the following have been present together in the past year: an overwhelming desire to drink, an inability to stop or to control harmful drinking, withdrawal symptoms when stopping drinking or evidence of alcohol tolerance. There are different treatments available for people diagnosed with alcoholism but a key stage of treatment is detoxification.
Detox involves stopping drinking completely so that the body can adjust to being without alcohol.
During this time, a person may experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms. On-going treatment generally falls into one of three main camps: psychological, psychosocial and pharmacological. Psychological and psychosocial treatments can involve counselling to help you understand and change your attitude towards drinking. Pharmacological treatments (i.e. medications) can also have a role in preventing relapse for some people who are trying to abstain, or trying to reduce their drinking.
What do I do if I think someone is an alcoholic? If someone close to you is displaying signs of alcohol addiction, it can be difficult to know what to do. You might feel worried about them, frustrated that they don’t seem to want help or frightened for them or even by them. All of these feelings are normal and there is help out there both for alcoholics and those caring for them.
Talk honestly with your loved one about their drinking. It can be very difficult for alcoholics to admit they have a problem but being supportive, open and non-judgemental can make them feel safe. Ask how you can best support the person. The AA Estcourt branch hosts meetings every Tuesday at Forderville Primary School from 7pm to 8pm. Contact Desigan on 082 849 3014.
