Alcoholism is an addiction to alcohol that afflicts millions of individuals and families alike each year in the US alone. Individuals who become addicted to alcohol not only endure the mental and emotional effects of the addiction, but also physical effects such as liver and kidney damage. In some cases, alcoholism can lead to death when it is not treated and goes on unaddressed. If you struggle with alcoholism and you are seeking treatment without medication, it is important to understand the options you have available. While some treatment centers for alcoholism may require you to take medications in severe or life-threatening situations, most facilities offer alternative programs that do not involve medication. Before choosing an alcoholism treatment plan, review your options to find a long-term solution that is optimal for you and the goals you have in mind.
Types of Alcoholism Treatment Without Medication
When seeking help for alcoholism, there are various types of programs available that do not involve using medication as a form of treatment. Prior to selecting a rehab program that is right for you, get to know more about the different types of alcoholism treatment.
Inpatient Rehab Treatment Centers
Inpatient rehab treatment centers offer alcoholism programs that do not include medication for most individuals. However, an individual who has a serious and life-threatening physical addiction to alcohol may require some form of medication during a medically-monitored detox program. If you are seeking alcoholism treatment without medication and you have a severe addiction you alcohol, an inpatient rehab center may require you to take medication depending on the facility you choose. Always inquire about medication usage before selecting an inpatient rehab center that is right for the alcoholism treatment you need.
Inpatient rehab treatment centers provide various advantages that are not always available with traditional outpatient programs for alcoholism. With an inpatient facility, enjoy a zero-tolerance atmosphere and environment as you learn how to live without being surrounded by the temptation of alcohol. Inpatient treatment facilities for alcoholism are also ideal for those in need of structure and routine. Structure and routine play significant roles in our lives, which is why they are important during the recovery process. Inpatient rehab treatment facilities provide a strict routine and structure for all individuals currently receiving care. Additionally, some of the programs available with an inpatient care treatment center or facility include:
- Counseling: Work with an addiction counselor who specializes in helping individuals who struggle with alcoholism. Meet regularly with your counselor to uncover root causes and triggers that are related to your alcoholism.
- Group Gatherings: Attend group therapy sessions and meet with others to build a support group of your own. Learn how to better listen and empathize with others who are also struggling with alcoholism.
- Dual Diagnosis: Inpatient rehab centers provide dual diagnosis services, which are necessary for individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, or another mental affliction.
Intensive Outpatient Programs
Intensive outpatient programs are similar to outpatient programs by not requiring an individual to relocate or quit their job. Instead, intensive outpatient programs are run similarly to traditional outpatient programs, but also offer inpatient services. Intensive outpatient programs may provide dual diagnosis services, medically-monitored detox programs, and even medical guidance from doctors and addiction specialists.
Before choosing an intensive outpatient treatment program for alcoholism, it is important to inquire about whether medication will be used or not. While some intensive outpatient programs are available voluntarily, they may also be required by a court of law due to a judge’s ruling.
Outpatient Programs
Outpatient rehab programs are the most familiar types of alcoholism programs available for most individuals. Outpatient rehab programs do not typically involve medication, especially as they often involve group meetings or gatherings that are not restricting or binding. Some of the most common forms of outpatient programs for alcoholism include sponsor and sobriety meetings along with group gatherings such as Alcoholics Anonymous.
Getting to know others in an outpatient program is a way to build a mental and emotional support group while working through overcoming alcoholism. Obtaining alcoholism treatment that does not involve medication does not have to feel stressful or impossible. With the right inpatient center and aftercare outpatient programs, get the treatment you need to overcome your alcoholism and begin living a life that is addiction-free. Ready to get started with a treatment that is right for you? Call us at 800-411-8019 to learn more about the alcoholism treatment programs we have available today.