Alcohol, like many things, is something that should be consumed in moderation. Too much of it can create serious consequences that can affect the way your relationships, career, and nearly every aspect of your life. Alcoholism is one of the biggest problems in the country, which has made Medication-Assisted Treatment increasingly popular for battling addiction. To understand how it works, let’s take a look at the possible signs of alcohol abuse.
Alcoholism in the United States
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism or the NIAAA declared that almost 16 million young people, including adolescents and young working adults, have developed a dependence or addiction to alcohol.
What are the Signs of an Alcohol Addiction?
The CDC reports that the sign of addiction could mean consuming four to five servings of alcohol in less than two hours. Heavy drinking per week is having one to two daily servings, which is about seven to fourteen drinks a week. If it also takes a lot for a person to get drunk, that might be a sign.
Another big indicator is one looking for it when stressed, sad, or anxious. People who use alcohol as a crutch are a cause for concern since dependence may lead to addiction.
What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?
When one seeks medical advice, they may be recommended to go under MAT, which involves taking medication to control the urge to drink. Some of the most common medications used in MAT for this disorder are disulfiram, naltrexone, and acamprosate.
Taking medication is only part one of the steps to recovery. Experts also need you to keep track of how you’re feeling and how often you need to take your medication. Many programs require you to visit AA meetings or participate in therapy.
Not all alcoholism stems from trauma, but a good chunk of people suffering from alcohol addiction come from tough situations. It’s good to deconstruct these feelings either in a room full of people who understand you or an expert who won’t judge you.
Does Medication-Assisted Treatment Actually Work?
Everyone recovers in their own way. Some people need medication, while others don’t. Ultimately, recovery is up to you. The decision that cannot be made for you. However, research suggests that MAT for this addiction can minimize withdrawal symptoms, control cravings, and help you stay sober for longer.
Conclusion
Addiction is a serious life-threatening condition that can get out of hand without proper help. The first step to conquering alcoholism is to admit the problem and seek proper help before doing anything.
A professional may put you on Medication-Assisted Treatment to make your condition manageable. This transition won’t be easy, but changing your life for the better is the best choice anyone can make. Starting this journey can help you become a better person for your own sake.
It’s easy to lose track of your medication when you’re busy all day. To keep you on track, download MedManage, a medicine tracker that will remind you throughout the day. Remembering, storing, and sharing your medication status is easier with our cloud-based management system to help you along the journey. Create an account today!