Are There Alcohol Rehab Centers in Florida?

Alcohol is one of the most commonly used and abused substances in the entire world, with over 85% of people above the age of 18 drinking alcohol at some point in their life. Not only that, but roughly one in four people in that same age group report binge drinking within the past 30 days.

With over 14.5 million people suffering from an alcohol use disorder in the United States, it is no surprise that alcohol is responsible for over 140,000 deaths annually. Globally, alcohol is responsible for over three million deaths annually.

In moderation, alcohol isn’t much to be concerned about. Unfortunately, too many people abuse this substance, and it often results in changed behavior, unwanted circumstances, and unhealthy consequences. The good news is alcohol rehab centers in Florida are ready and willing to help.

Is Alcohol Addictive?

While alcohol use is generally okay in moderation, it’s extremely easy to become addicted to it, and that’s when problems often arise. In fact, there are three main stages to alcohol addiction, and it operates like a never-ending cycle – making it difficult for people to come out of addiction.

Let’s take a closer look at each stage of alcohol addiction:

Binge/Intoxication Stage – during this stage, the addict experiences the euphoric feeling that comes with alcohol use. It’s where habits and behaviors related to alcohol are reinforced and duplicated. It almost incentivizes continued use.
Negative Effect/Withdrawal Stage – during this stage, the addict has stopped drinking alcohol (could be for a day, could be for a month), and they start to experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms are one of the biggest reasons why people relapse.
Preoccupation/Anticipation Stage – during this stage, the individual is ready to drink again after a period of abstinence. The withdrawal becomes too hard to bear, and instead of seeking alcohol for the euphoric feeling, they drink to escape withdrawal symptoms.

As the addict continues using and abusing alcohol, their brain will change chemically and structurally. This makes relapse much more likely and treatment much more difficult, but it doesn’t mean all hope is lost. No matter how severe the addiction, you can one day overcome it.

What are the Signs of Alcoholism?

Since most individuals understand how alcohol abuse can affect their life – as well as the lives of those around them – they often do their best to keep it a secret. Eventually, the signs of alcohol abuse and alcohol addiction will shine through – and it’s the family’s job to notice them.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common signs of alcoholism that you should keep an eye out for in your loved ones:

Slowed movements and reaction times
Blackouts and periods of severe memory loss
Difficulty walking properly and poor coordination
Impaired judgment and taking risks often
Not worrying about the consequences of their actions
Slurred speech or poor memory
Impaired vision, headaches, and upset stomach

If you notice any of these signs in a loved one or yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There are countless alcohol rehabs in Florida that are ready and willing to help you overcome addiction – a Florida alcohol rehab center can even help the family through the addiction.

What are the Long-Term Effects of Alcohol Abuse?

Getting treatment for alcohol abuse and alcohol addiction is extremely important to ensuring the individual lives a happy, healthy, and meaningful life post-addiction. Unfortunately, many people see their addiction left untreated and are forced to live with the unwanted consequences.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common long-term effects of alcohol abuse:

Loss of control over alcohol use
Showing a lack of interest in things they used to enjoy
Wanting to stop drinking, but not being able to
Drinking when you’re not supposed to (such as while driving)
Giving in to temptations and cravings for alcohol
Withdrawal symptoms when not drinking alcohol
Injury, self-harm, and even death
Relationship, financial, social, and career problems
Permanent damage to the brain or body
Other health conditions, such as liver disease
Mental health conditions, such as depression

With so many different treatment options available – including outpatient and inpatient alcohol rehab, therapy, medication, 12-step programs, etc. – alcohol addicts deserve a real opportunity at living a drug- and substance-free life. Maybe a Florida alcohol rehab is exactly what you need!