Alcoholism, also known as alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a chronic medical condition. It is characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse consequences.
Alcoholism often begins with the casual use of alcohol. At this stage, alcohol use is typically not dangerous for the individual. Over time, however, regular alcohol consumption can lead to increased tolerance. This is when the individual starts to need more alcohol to achieve the same desired effects.
With continued use, dependence can develop. Dependence is characterized by an intense craving for alcohol and difficulties in controlling its use. Addiction is the most severe stage of alcoholism, and individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms when they reduce or stop alcohol use.
The prevalence of alcoholism in the United States showcases a rising cause for concern. In 2022, more than 14 million adults in the U.S. were reported to have an alcohol use disorder. Additionally, more than 95,000 deaths can be linked to excessive alcohol consumption every year.
Approximately 10,000 U.S. adults had alcohol-related driving casualties in 2019. These fatalities were more prevalent in Texas. Also, data from 2020 indicated that men were 50% more likely to be intoxicated drivers in fatal motor vehicle accidents than women.
In Texas, there were over 10,000 alcohol-related deaths reported. 4% of these deaths were individuals under 21 years of age. Continuum Outpatient Center recognizes how devastating the effects of alcoholism can be, which is why our center works hard to help individuals heal.
Many factors can influence alcoholism. At Continuum Outpatient Center, we recognize the following risk factors as contributors to the development of alcohol use disorder:
Alcoholism manifests through a wide range of signs and symptoms. The presence and severity of these symptoms can vary widely among individuals.
Understanding the signs and symptoms is essential for effective treatment and recovery. Alcoholism may manifest as:
Chronic alcohol misuse can lead to a range of short-term and long-term health consequences for individuals. These consequences can affect virtually every organ system in the body. They can have both immediate and gradual impacts on an individual’s health.
The result of acute alcohol intoxication may result in multiple short-term health consequences, such as:
These short-term consequences often develop gradually over time and can become more serious, potentially turning into:
Utilizing CBT for alcoholism treatment focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with alcohol use. Our team uses CBT to help individuals understand the root causes of these behaviors in order to begin the healing process.
Our therapists work with individuals to work through these root causes and develop healthier coping mechanisms. This helps individuals continue to heal and know how to work through the lasting effects of alcoholism for years to come.
In our DBT program, we emphasize emotional and behavioral regulation. This therapy helps individuals develop skills for distress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness.
It is effective in addressing:
This approach helps patients achieve better balance and improve their relationships as well. DBT was originally used for borderline personality disorder but has evolved to help with addiction as well.
We tailor EMDR therapy for those who also struggle with traumatic experiences. This treatment involves the patient recalling traumatic memories while receiving bilateral stimulation, typically through guided eye movements.
The EMDR process helps individuals reduce the emotional impact of these memories. It works to diminish the influence of trauma on addictive behaviors.
Group therapy at Continuum Outpatient Center offers a supportive environment. Here, individuals share experiences and learn from each other. It harnesses the power of peer support and shared learning to aid the recovery process.
Participants gain insights from others’ journeys, share coping strategies, and find motivation in the group setting.
The family system approach recognizes the impact of family dynamics on addiction. Family therapy helps address and resolve issues that may contribute to the patient’s alcoholism.
It aims to:
We also incorporate medication-assisted therapy as a part of our comprehensive treatment plan when it is needed. MAT involves the use of FDA-approved medications, including disulfiram and naltrexone.
We use these medications in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies. This method is effective in reducing the cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with alcoholism.
Break Free From Substance Use Disorder!
Holistic therapies complement evidence-based treatments and promote emotional well-being. Holistic therapies help improve overall wellness while still providing healing benefits for addiction and other mental health struggles.
At Continuum Outpatient Center, we employ the following holistic treatments to aid in the treatment process.
Meditation is a core component of our treatment program. We teach patients various meditation techniques to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Regular meditation practice helps individuals in recovery. Patients develop greater control over their impulses and reactions, contributing to long-term sobriety and an increased sense of calm.
Mindfulness is about cultivating a non-judgmental awareness of one’s thoughts and feelings. This practice helps patients observe their cravings and emotions without acting on them. It fosters a deeper understanding of risk factors and habitual responses.
Mindfulness training is integrated into various aspects of our treatment to promote overall well-being.
Yoga is another critical element of our holistic treatment approach. It combines physical postures and breathing exercises. These activities help to improve emotional health and enhance mental clarity.
Regular yoga practice reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression. It also supports physical recovery from the effects of alcohol use disorder.
Recreational therapy involves structured activities, such as:
These activities provide a healthy outlet for stress. Additionally, they help build self-esteem, improve social skills, and foster a sense of accomplishment and joy.
Continuum Outpatient Center offers a spectrum of treatment programs. We cater to individuals at different stages of recovery from alcohol addiction.
Our medical team uses the following programs to provide the necessary support to help individuals achieve and maintain sobriety.
The intensive outpatient program at our center is a comprehensive treatment option that is ideal for those who need more support than standard outpatient care but do not require full-time hospitalization.
Patients attend therapy sessions several times a week. This may include family therapy or group therapy. We also offer treatment sessions during the day, evenings, or weekends. The length of the program can vary depending on individual progress, but it generally lasts from a few months to a year.
Our partial hospitalization program is a step down from inpatient care but more intensive than an IOP. A PHP typically involves several hours of treatment each day. This program can occur up to five or seven days per week.
A PHP is a well-structured plan with a combination of psychiatric care along with medication management if needed. It may also include additional services such as nutritional counseling and occupational therapy.
Our PHP usually lasts a few weeks in order to help individuals transition to less intensive levels of care as they progress through the healing process.
Our outpatient program at Continuum Outpatient Center is ideal for those transitioning from higher levels of care. It is also suitable for individuals whose addiction is less severe.
We focus on:
Patients have access to therapists and peer support groups. This offers a safety net for individuals as they navigate recovery while still engaging in their daily lives.
Our alumni program provides ongoing support to individuals who have completed one of our treatment programs. Alumni events and meetings can be attended virtually or in person.
Patients have access to our counselors for continued guidance and support. Furthermore, former patients can mentor current ones. They can provide inspiration and practical advice based on their own experiences.
Continuum Outpatient Center adopts a holistic approach to healing. We focus on treating not just the symptoms of addiction but the individuals themselves.
We integrate the following values in our treatment approach:
Contact Continuum Outpatient Center Today
If you or someone you love is grappling with the challenges of alcohol addiction, remember that you’re not alone. Continuum Outpatient Center is dedicated to providing the support you need. Our unique approach to healing aligns with our core mission and values in order to help you heal.
Contact Continuum Outpatient Center today to learn more about our programs and how we can tailor a treatment plan to your recovery journey. Rediscover the strength within you and the first step towards a new beginning.
Continuum Outpatient Center
Admissions Hours
Monday – Friday: 7 am to 9 pm
Saturday and Sunday: 10 am to 8 pm
– Powered by Active Marketing
