Alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances in the world. Part of this is due to how society has come to accept and celebrate alcohol use. People drink to celebrate when they achieve something, help facilitate mourning when they lose something, and ease their nerves when socializing. People adopt lighthearted monikers like “wine mom” or “vodka aunt” to describe their alcohol use. Often, none of these actions cause anyone to blink an eye. It’s common to consider alcohol use as something everyone engages in, and alcohol addiction is rarely at the front of your mind when drinking, even when it should be. The reality is that alcohol use disorder is very serious, and an alcohol addiction treatment program can help many people regain control of their lives.
Oceanfront Recovery’s alcohol addiction treatment services are a great option for anyone in the Laguna Beach area that wants to address their alcohol use and find sobriety. We have a variety of treatment options that can fit any lifestyle. From executive rehab to an inpatient stay, there is an option that fits you. Alcohol addiction can have lasting effects on your physical and mental health, and waiting to seek treatment can only make things worse. For more information about our services or facilities, contact us today by visiting us online or calling 877.296.7477.
What Are the Stages of Alcoholism?
Many people engage in moderate drinking or social drinking. This isn’t inherently a problem, and some can imbibe alcohol responsibly. Unfortunately, the line between drinking in moderation and developing alcohol use disorder isn’t always clear. You may be slipping into an alcohol addiction without even realizing it. Drinking in moderation is considered the first stage of alcoholism. Here are the stages in full:
- Experimental or moderate drinking: This stage is common and doesn’t always progress further. Young people who have just begun using alcohol or who drink socially with friends may fall into this category, but the risks of alcohol addiction are very present.
- Increased drinking: You may notice that you previously drank heavily on occasion, but now you may find yourself drinking every weekend or looking for more excuses to get drunk. Binge drinking, or consuming four or more drinks within two hours, may fall here too.
- Problem drinking: This is where alcohol begins to affect your life and well-being massively. You may skip work or other responsibilities to allow yourself more time to drink or recover from a night of drinking. You may find yourself becoming more depressed or anxious.
- Alcohol addiction: This is where a chemical dependency forms. You will have an intense attachment to drinking, and you may feel sick after going too long without a drink. You also likely have a much higher tolerance to alcohol.
Alcohol Use Disorder and You
Alcohol addiction can have a wide variety of negative effects on your health. When drinking becomes an inexorable part of your daily routine, your other commitments, responsibilities, and values will become a back seat to the alcohol. You may develop mental health issues and physical conditions, including liver or heart problems. When alcohol is your priority, you may not notice the other things in your life falling by the wayside. This is when you desperately need professional help.
Find Alcohol Addiction Treatment at Oceanfront Recovery
Oceanfront Recovery in Laguna Beach is well-versed in helping people with alcohol addiction. Your next drink doesn’t need to keep running your life. Our professional and compassionate staff will equip you with the necessary tools to achieve sobriety and make it last. If you think you would benefit from an individualized alcohol abuse treatment program, reach out to us today by calling 877.296.7477.
