For well over half a century we have poured billions of dollars into a failed attempt at understanding alcoholism. What’s its nature, causes, and cure? Each promised breakthrough to understanding alcoholism has failed miserably. There isn’t even agreement on defining alcoholism. Nor is there agreement on whether or not it is a disease. Even doctors… [+]
Alcoholism General Information
Understanding Alcoholism
Non 12 Step Programs and Rehabs
Almost one quarter of all alcohol and drug rehabilitation facilities in the U.S. are non 12 step programs. These are the findings of a recent survey by the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA). People who prefer a non 12 step program or rehab have a great diversity from which to choose. Here… [+]
Alcohol Detox (Alcohol Detoxification)
Alcohol detoxification is commonly called alcohol detox. It is the process of stabilizing alcoholics who have stopped drinking. This is to prevent them from going into alcohol withdrawal. That could potentially cause death. Alcohol withdrawal can lead to a variety of symptoms. They generally start within eight hours after the last drink but can occur much later. They… [+]
Controlling Your Drinking
Controlling Your Drinking: Tools to Make Moderation Work for You is a practical guide for drinkers who want to reduce their consumption and drink in moderation. Research by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) and others shows that many people, including alcoholics, can and do learn to moderate their drinking. See Alcoholics Can Recover from Alcoholism &… [+]
Cognitive Behavioral Education & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral education (CBE) should not be mistaken for Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or vice versa. Unfortunately, their names are similar. Worse, their acronyms, CBE and CBT, sound almost identical. This confuses the public. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a highly evidence-based therapeutic approach widely used for alcoholism and drug addiction. This technique has also long… [+]
Choosing a Rehab for Alcohol Problems
Choosing a rehab for alcohol or drug problems is a very personal decision. It’s best to take your time and investigate carefully. [boxed_insert] I. Rehab Essentials II. Rehab Really Necessary? [/boxed_insert] However, here are some things that should never be ignored. I. Rehab Essentials A. Accreditation The most important indicator of quality is accreditation… [+]
Signs of a Drinking Problem (Possible Alcohol Problem)
Here are 12 signs of a drinking problem. It’s wise to be aware of these signs. Look for them in yourself or your loved ones. But first, don’t panic. If you think you or a loved one might have a drinking problem, here is good news. Many people have a problem with their drinking, but… [+]
Rehab Accreditation is Important
Rehab accreditation is important — very important. Accreditation shows that an alcohol or drug rehab meets important standards. These are standards of both safety and quality. Rehab accreditation is also important because it promotes continued improvement in the quality of care provided. Accredited rehabs are good and theycontinue to get even better. The Joint Commission… [+]
Licensed Alcohol Counselor: Accept Nothing Less
You should have a licensed alcohol counselor You wouldn’t seek medical help from an unlicensed doctor. Why use an unlicensed alcohol counselor? Make sure to have a licensed alcohol counselor. Too much is at stake to do otherwise. I. Many Counselors Unlicensed Unfortunately, many alcohol counselors are not licensed. Some alcohol and drug programs have… [+]
Alcohol Treatment Programs & Rehabs
Alcohol Treatment Programs are often More about Money than Helping People Alcohol treatment programs are an enormous and highly profitable. It brings in billions of dollars to its owners each year. But it’s also very, very competitive. Each bed filled brings into a company many thousands of dollars. To lure customers (clients, patients, or “guests”),… [+]