Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a serious medical condition that affects millions of individuals and families across the country. For those struggling with alcohol dependence, professional help is essential to achieving long-term recovery. At Shanti Recovery & Wellness, we offer comprehensive alcohol addiction treatment in Portland, Oregon, providing evidence-based therapies and compassionate support customized to each individual’s needs.
Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder
Alcohol use disorder is a chronic condition characterized by an inability to control alcohol consumption despite negative consequences. It ranges from mild to severe and can lead to significant health, social, and emotional problems.
Many people with AUD continue drinking even when it causes problems at work, in relationships, or with their health. Over time, alcohol dependence can lead to physical and psychological addiction, making it difficult to quit without professional intervention.
Symptoms of AUD
Recognizing the signs is the initial step toward getting help. Common symptoms include:
- Strong cravings for alcohol
- Inability to limit or stop drinking
- Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from alcohol use
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Continuing to drink despite social or health problems
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking
- Developing a high tolerance, requiring more alcohol to feel its effects
Why It Matters?
Identifying these symptoms early can prevent serious health and social consequences. If you or a loved one exhibits these signs, seeking alcohol addiction treatment can provide the necessary tools to regain control.
What Is Considered One Drink?
Understanding standard drink sizes can help individuals monitor their alcohol intake. In the U.S., one standard drink is 12 oz. of beer (5% alcohol content), 5 oz. of wine (12% alcohol content), and 1.5 oz. of distilled spirits (40% alcohol content).
Many people underestimate how much they are consuming, especially with mixed drinks or craft beers with higher alcohol content.
When to Seek Help
If drinking starts to interfere with daily life, relationships, or overall well-being, it’s time to pursue professional help. Consider reaching out to a doctor or addiction specialist if you:
- Feel unable to cut back on drinking
- Experience withdrawal symptoms such as shaking, sweating, or nausea when not drinking
- Have been told by friends or family that your drinking is a problem
- Continue drinking despite negative consequences
Seeking alcohol use disorder treatment in Portland early can prevent further health complications and improve recovery outcomes.
Causes of AUD
Several factors contribute to the development of AUD, including:
- Genetics: A family history of alcoholism increases the risk.
- Psychological Factors: Anxiety, depression, and trauma can lead to self-medication with alcohol.
- Social and Environmental Factors: Peer pressure, early exposure to drinking, and high-stress environments contribute to alcohol misuse.
Understanding these causes can help individuals take proactive steps toward recovery.
Risk Factors
Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing alcohol use disorder, such as:
- Drinking at an early age
- A history of mental health disorders
- High levels of stress or trauma
- Frequent binge drinking
- Social environments that encourage excessive alcohol use
If you or someone you love is at risk, alcohol addiction treatment in Portland, Oregon can provide the necessary support for lasting recovery.
Complications of Alcohol Use Disorder
Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of accidents, injuries, risky behaviors, and violence, leading to serious safety concerns. Impaired judgment can result in car crashes, falls, legal problems, and dangerous situations that put both the individual and others at risk.
Long-term alcohol use also takes a severe toll on health, causing liver disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, and neurological damage. It can also lead to cognitive impairment, depression, and anxiety, further worsening overall well-being. Without intervention, these complications can be life-threatening, making professional treatment crucial for recovery.
Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
At Shanti Recovery & Wellness, we provide personalized alcohol use disorder treatment in Portland, using evidence-based methods to support lasting recovery. Our treatment options include:
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
MAT helps individuals manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings using FDA-approved medications such as Naltrexone and Vivitrol.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy
TMS is a non-invasive treatment used to address depression and other mental health problems that often co-occur with AUD.
Psychotherapy and Counseling
Our therapy services include:
- Individual therapy for personalized support
- Group therapy to promote a sense of community
- Family counseling to repair relationships
Adolescent & Pediatric Psychiatry
For younger individuals struggling with alcohol use, we offer specialized psychiatric care to address underlying problems.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
In addition to professional treatment, making healthy lifestyle changes can strengthen recovery and reduce the risk of relapse. Avoiding triggers, such as stressful situations or social settings that encourage drinking, helps prevent setbacks. Regular exercise reduces stress and boosts mood, while mindfulness techniques, like meditation or deep breathing, promote emotional resilience. Building a strong support system of friends, family, or recovery groups provides encouragement and accountability throughout the journey.
Coping and Support
Long-term sobriety requires ongoing support. Joining a support group, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), provides community and shared experiences. Working with a therapist can help address emotional triggers and develop healthy coping strategies. Leaning on family and friends for encouragement strengthens commitment to sobriety. With the right resources and alcohol addiction treatment in Portland, Oregon, lasting recovery is within reach.
Why Choose Shanti for Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment?
At our center, we take a holistic, personalized approach to treatment, ensuring that every individual receives the care they need for lasting sobriety. Here’s why we stand out:
- Comprehensive Care: Offering medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with Naltrexone and Vivitrol to manage cravings and withdrawal.
- Expert Therapy Services: Individual, group, and family therapy to address emotional and psychological aspects of addiction.
- Specialized Mental Health Support: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and psychiatric care for co-occurring disorders.
- Community-Focused: A locally owned center dedicated to accessible, high-quality treatment.
- Holistic and Personalized Approach: Customized treatment plans specific to each individual’s recovery journey.
If you or a loved one needs alcohol addiction treatment, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Start Your Recovery With Alcohol Addiction Treatment in Portland, Oregon
Struggling with alcohol dependence can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Shanti Recovery & Wellness, we provide compassionate, evidence-based alcohol addiction treatment in Portland, Oregon, developed to help you regain control and build a healthier future.
Take the first step toward lasting sobriety today. Contact us to learn more about our treatment programs and begin your journey to recovery.
