Alcohol Use Disorder
Although alcohol is considered a legal substance, it is important to consider that it is also a depressant and when misused can lead to excessive mental health challenges and other problems including liver and kidney disease, heart problems, high blood pressure, stroke, cancer, and even death.
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) as “a medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. It encompasses the conditions that some people refer to as alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence, alcohol addiction, and the colloquial term, alcoholism. Considered a brain disorder, AUD can be mild, moderate, or severe. Lasting changes in the brain caused by alcohol misuse perpetuate AUD and make individuals vulnerable to relapse. The good news is that no matter how severe the problem may seem, evidence-based treatment with behavioral therapies, mutual-support groups, and/or medications can help people with AUD achieve and maintain recovery.”
Call 213-583-2622 or email us at admissions@westvalleydetox.com.
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines “excessive
drinking” as binge drinking, heavy drinking, or any alcohol use by pregnant women or people younger than age 21. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans define binge
drinking as consuming four or more drinks in a sitting.
Binge Drinking
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) defines binge drinking as a pattern of drinking that brings blood alcohol concentration to 0.08 g/dL or above, a number generally referred to as “legally drunk” by the vast majority of states for DUIs. For women, this typically corresponds to consuming four or more drinks in about 2 hours; for men, it typically corresponds to five or more drinks in about 2 hours.
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), moderate drinking is defined as no more than one drink per day for women of any age and men older than 65, and no more than two drinks per day for men aged 65 and younger.
Effects of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
The short-term effects of Alcohol Use Disorder include the following:
- Anemia
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Headaches
- Drowsiness
- Upset stomach
- Loss of coordination
- Difficulty breathing
- Impaired judgment
- Unconsciousness
- Blackouts
- Coma
Individuals who drink excessive amounts of alcohol may engage in risky activities after consuming this substance. They may drive or operate other types of machinery under the influence of alcohol. This can lead to drunk driving accidents, injuries at work, dangerous falls, drowning, and more life-threatening occurrences.
Below are some of the long-term effects of Alcohol Use Disorder
Below are some of the long-term effects of alcohol addiction:
- Brain damage
- Ulcers
- Liver damage
- Nerve damage
- Sexual issues
- Malnutrition
- Vitamin deficiency
- Stomach and pancreatic cancers
Long-term alcohol misuse can cause people’s behaviors and personalities to change in negative ways. This can lead to issues in the home, such as broken relationships, domestic abuse, and other types of violence. People who suffer from Alcohol Use Disorder for a long time may find themselves in financial problems, suffering job loss, and losing their homes.
If you, or your loved one, are ready to start your recovery journey today, please call 213-583-2622 or email us at admissions@westvalleydetox.com.
The symptoms of Alcohol Use Disorder vary from person to person, depending on the amount of alcohol consumed and how long a person has had an alcohol problem.
Symptoms may include:
- Tolerance: The need to drink more alcohol to feel the same effect
- Withdrawal: Feeling shaky, sick, or irritable when not drinking
- Drinking more than intended: Drinking in risky situations, such as while driving or drinking first thing in the morning to stave off withdrawal symptoms
- Skipping work or school: Drinking so much that it interferes with daily responsibilities
- Continuing to drink despite consequences: Relationship troubles, arguments with a family member, trouble at work, etc.
- Lying about drinking: Hiding alcohol use from others and lying about how much was consumed
- Physical dependence: Withdrawal symptoms, such as sweating and shaking
- Reckless behavior: Engaging in risky sexual behavior or driving while intoxicated
If you, or your loved one, are ready to start your recovery journey today, please call 213-583-2622 or email us at admissions@westvalleydetox.com.
The exact cause of alcohol use disorder is not known. Several factors play a role in the development of this substance use disorder, including:
- Genetics – People with family members with Alcohol Use Disorder may be more vulnerable to a problematic relationship with alcohol
- Environment – People who are around heavy drinkers or people who live in places where alcohol is easily available may be more likely to develop a substance use disorder.
- Stress – Alcohol can temporarily relieve stress, but it usually causes more problems in the long run.
- Depression – People who are depressed may be more likely to drink alcohol as a way of coping with their feelings
The characteristic alcohol withdrawal may cause nausea, vomiting, tremor, and sweating. However, when alcohol use has reached a high level of daily consumption medical detox is highly recommended. At West Valley Detox & Treatment Services we can start your recovery journey with medically assisted detox.
If you, or your loved one, are ready to start your recovery journey today, please call 213-583-2622 or email us at admissions@westvalleydetox.com.
At West Valley Detox & Treatment Services, we are committed to helping our clients begin and successfully continue their recovery journey. Each individual who comes to West Valley Detox & Treatment Services will receive an individualized treatment plan, involving the resources and guidance they need to overcome their substance use disorder and other co-occurring mental health disorders.
At West Valley Detox & Treatment Services we provide the following services:
Medical Assisted Detox
At West Valley Detox Treatment, our goal is to lay the groundwork for you to build a life filled with new possibilities, equipping you with enduring strategies for recovery and behavioral transformation and propelling you toward the existence you’ve always envisioned. This journey often begins with the crucial step of detoxification from substances.
Our services:
- Thorough assessment by a board-certified Addiction Medicine Physician.
- 24/7 Nursing.
- 24/7 Observation of medication management.
- 24/7 Ongoing monitoring of health status and vitals.
- Individual, group and family therapy.
Residential Treatment
At West Valley Detox & Treatment Services, our clinical team adopts a multidisciplinary approach to develop a personalized recovery plan that aligns with your individual needs.
Our services:
- Weekly comprehensive medical and mental health visits with Addiction Specialist.
- 1-2 individual therapy sessions per week with our Masters-Level Clinicians.
- Trauma-informed daily groups: education and relapse prevention, addiction education, coping skills, anger management, processing grief, and emotional sobriety.
- Introduction to traditional and non-traditional 12-step programs.
- Experiential therapies: Art therapy, yoga, mindful meditation.
West Valley Detox & Treatment Services can offer Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol use disorder for any individual needing additional support reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. MAT is supported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and can be used in combination with the above treatment therapies.
Co-Occurring Mental Health Treatment
At West Valley Detox & Treatment Services we understand the importance of treating underlying issues that may simultaneously occur with substance use disorder. Upon arrival at West Valley Detox & Treatment Services, each of our clients undergo a full assessment to ensure that our clinicians address all ailments that may get in the way of long-term recovery.
Family Support
At West Valley Detox Treatment, we deeply understand that healing is a collective journey, influenced profoundly by the bonds we share with those closest to us. Recognizing the impact of addiction on these relationships, we warmly welcome the involvement of family and loved ones.
What Happens Next?
Whether you have completed a short detox program at West Valley Detox Treatment or participated in our continuum of care, we take pride in our collaboration with other mental health facilities and providers to ensure you receive ongoing professional support long after your stay with us. As you prepare to transition from the safe haven of West Valley Detox Treatment, your team will provide you with the following:
- A comprehensive and individualized continuum of care plan.
- Updates to your referral team.
- Access to community resources when needed.
- Participation in our free monthly alumni check-ins.
If you, or your loved one, are ready to start your recovery journey today, please call 213-583-2622 or email us at admissions@westvalleydetox.com.
FAQs About Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and Treatment
If you are wondering if you have Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)? The following questions may help you determine whether or not you need help:
- Have you ever tried to control your drinking and been unsuccessful?
- Do you have a strong desire, urge to drink, or craving that you find hard to control?
- Have there been times when you felt bad or guilty about your drinking?
- Have there been times when you needed a drink so badly that you couldn’t think of anything else?
- Have there been times when you felt that you should cut down on your drinking?
- Have you or someone else been injured as a result of your drinking?
- Have you ever been arrested or taken into custody for being drunk, disorderly, or disturbing the peace when drinking?
- How often does someone else have to take care of you or watch over you when drinking?
- Have your friends and family members ever told you that you drink too much?
- Have you ever considered getting treatment?
If you answered ‘yes’ to most of these questions, it is time to reach out for help.
When consuming large quantities of alcohol and drugs, quitting cold turkey is never advisable. Individuals who misuse illicit drugs, alcohol, or prescription drugs can experience severe withdrawal symptoms when they quit using these substances. These symptoms can often lead to relapse or even cause people to suffer life-threatening consequences. This is why professional treatment centers and detox facilities are necessary.
People who are struggling with alcohol or drug addiction are advised to seek help from addiction treatment professionals for assessment and treatment referrals. West Valley Detox & Treatment Services are here to help. Please at 213-583-2622 or email us at admissions@westvalleydetox.com.
Everyone has different needs when it comes to getting addiction treatment. Some people feel more comfortable attending addiction treatment in a familiar neighborhood. But, others may benefit more from relocating to an out-of-state program.
If you’re considering traveling to receive treatment in the Los Angeles area, West Valley Detox & Treatment Services is a great option. After all, Los Angeles, CA is a beautiful city filled with creativity, diversity, and recovery.
Paying for alcohol and drug treatment doesn’t have to be an obstacle. If you are looking for drug rehab in Los Angeles, there are many payment options to consider. Many drug and alcohol rehab facilities accept health insurance and can work with you individually to highlight additional payment options.
Every individual has their own unique recovery journey that is dependant on severity of illness and any other co-occurring challenge. However, on average, medical detox and residential treatments can last for approximately 30-60 days.
After completing alcohol and drug rehab, it is important to continue clinical care and to consider regularly attending support groups. Outside suggestions will be provided by your treatment team before leaving the safe haven of our facility.
In addition, at West Valley Detox & Treatment Services, we are proud to offer our clients continued care with our alumni program.