Alcohol Addiction Treatment
Alcohol addiction—clinically referred to as alcohol use disorder (AUD)—is a chronic condition marked by an inability to limit or control drinking, even when it results in harmful consequences. While moderate alcohol use is often seen as socially acceptable or even benign, dependence can quietly develop over time, leading to significant physical, emotional, and social impacts.
At Evergreen Behavioral Health, we provide individualized, comprehensive care for alcohol addiction. Our programs are tailored to meet each person’s unique needs, helping them reclaim control and rebuild a healthy, fulfilling life. Read on to better understand alcohol, its addictive potential, and how we approach recovery.
Understanding Alcohol
While there are many forms of alcohol, the type found in beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails—ethyl alcohol or ethanol—is a psychoactive substance. Despite its widespread use, many people don’t consider alcohol a drug because it’s naturally produced through the fermentation of grains and fruits. However, like many prescription and illegal drugs, alcohol directly impacts the central nervous system.
Fermentation is a natural chemical process where yeast converts sugars in foods—such as grapes—into alcohol, like in the production of wine. Although natural, fermented products tend to be much stronger than other naturally occurring liquids like water or milk. That’s why excessive alcohol consumption leads to intoxication and prolonged misuse can result in addiction.
Substances affect the body in different ways, and alcohol is classified as a depressant. This means it slows down key functions of the central nervous system. Interestingly, alcohol can also act as a stimulant at lower doses, creating feelings of euphoria, sociability, and confidence. But increasing the amount consumed doesn’t increase these pleasurable effects.
Instead, because alcohol is a depressant, higher doses further suppress vital bodily functions, often leading to:
- Slurred speech
- Loss of coordination
- Unsteady movement
- Impaired sensory perception
- Slowed reaction times
In extreme cases—especially with rapid or excessive drinking—alcohol can cause drowsiness, difficulty breathing, coma, or even death.
Dangers of Alcohol Addiction
Although moderate alcohol use may appear socially acceptable or relatively harmless, dependence can slowly develop, resulting in serious and far-reaching consequences. Alcohol addiction doesn’t just impact physical health—it also affects mental and emotional well-being, personal relationships, and one’s overall social life. Gaining a full understanding of these effects is crucial to appreciating the severity of the disorder and the importance of getting professional help.
Physical Effects of Alcohol Addiction
The physical toll of alcohol addiction is often one of the first signs to emerge. Persistent and heavy drinking can cause significant damage to nearly every organ in the body. The liver, responsible for processing and breaking down alcohol, is particularly at risk. Over time, conditions such as fatty liver disease, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis may develop—and in extreme cases, liver failure can occur. The cardiovascular system is also vulnerable, with alcohol misuse linked to high blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, cardiomyopathy, and even increased risk of stroke.
Alcohol abuse further compromises the immune system, making individuals more prone to illness and infections. It disrupts the digestive system as well, causing ulcers, gastrointestinal inflammation, and nutritional deficiencies due to impaired nutrient absorption. Long-term use also increases the likelihood of developing several types of cancer, including cancers of the mouth, throat, liver, breast, and colon. Without intervention, these physical effects can become life-threatening.
Mental and Emotional Impact of Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol has a profound effect on brain function. As a depressant, it slows down neurological activity, and chronic consumption can alter the brain’s structure and chemistry. This may lead to cognitive difficulties such as memory loss, shortened attention span, and poor judgment. These effects can linger even after alcohol use has stopped, especially if the addiction has been ongoing for many years.
Emotionally, alcohol addiction often co-occurs with mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and sometimes bipolar disorder. Although some people use alcohol to self-medicate, its continued use tends to exacerbate these conditions over time. Mood swings, irritability, and overwhelming feelings of guilt or shame are common, and these emotional challenges often ripple into every aspect of a person’s life, straining both personal and professional relationships.
How Alcohol Addiction Affects Social Life
The social repercussions of alcohol addiction can be just as damaging as the physical and emotional ones. As addiction deepens, individuals may begin to isolate themselves, withdraw from family and friends, and lose interest in previously enjoyed activities. Their ability to meet obligations at work, home, or school often declines. Trust issues, conflict, and emotional distance can strain or destroy close relationships, leading to increased loneliness and further alcohol use.
Alcohol addiction may also lead to serious legal and financial troubles. Incidents such as driving under the influence, engaging in disorderly conduct, or being involved in violent episodes can result in legal consequences and criminal charges. Losing a job due to poor performance or chronic absenteeism is another common outcome, often resulting in financial hardship. These cascading effects can deeply impact not just the individual, but everyone in their support network.
Different Drinking Habits
Alcohol consumption is generally categorized into four primary types: moderate, binge, heavy, and abusive drinking. People who drink moderately typically maintain control over the frequency and quantity of their alcohol intake. In contrast, those who engage in binge, heavy, or problematic drinking often struggle with control, which increases their risk of developing a dependency. In cases of alcohol abuse, individuals usually have lost all control over how much and how often they drink. Let’s take a closer look at each category.
Moderate Drinking
According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2015–2020, issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, moderate drinking is defined as:
- Up to one drink per day for women
- Up to two drinks per day for men
A “standard drink” contains approximately 14 grams of pure alcohol. Common equivalents include:
- 12 oz. of beer (4.5–6% alcohol)
- 5 oz. of wine (12% alcohol)
- 1.5 oz. of distilled spirits or liquor (40% alcohol)
- 7 oz. of malt liquor (7% alcohol)
Binge Drinking
Binge drinking involves consuming large quantities of alcohol in a short period of time. Both the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) define it as a drinking pattern that raises blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 0.08% or higher. To put that in perspective:
- Women reach this level by drinking four or more drinks within two hours
- Men reach it with five or more drinks in the same timeframe
When alcohol is consumed too quickly, the body cannot metabolize it fast enough, resulting in a rapid increase in BAC. This can lead to alcohol poisoning, a potentially life-threatening condition. Binge drinking is the most prevalent, expensive, and fatal form of excessive alcohol consumption in the U.S.
Heavy Drinking
Heavy drinking refers to consuming alcohol in quantities that significantly exceed moderate levels. According to the NIAAA:
- Men: More than four drinks per day or 14 drinks per week
- Women: More than three drinks per day or seven drinks per week
While not all heavy drinkers experience immediate alcohol-related issues, consistent consumption at these levels increases the likelihood of developing physical, emotional, and behavioral problems. Research shows that around 25% of heavy drinkers develop an alcohol use disorder, and about 50% of those who regularly exceed daily and weekly limits develop a dependency.
Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol abuse, also known as alcohol misuse, is a serious and progressive issue. It typically involves frequent excessive drinking that disrupts daily routines, relationships, and responsibilities. Individuals who abuse alcohol often struggle at work, in social settings, and at home. Despite the negative impact, they may feel unable to stop. In many cases, they continue drinking to cope with these consequences, which only worsens the cycle and increases the risk of developing alcoholism.
Distinguishing between binge, heavy, and abusive drinking isn’t always straightforward. While there’s no universal formula for diagnosing alcohol misuse, there are many behavioral and physical warning signs that can indicate a problem. Identifying these patterns early is essential in preventing addiction and encouraging individuals to seek help.
Signs of Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol addiction impacts individuals in various ways, and its warning signs can appear across different aspects of life. These signs are generally categorized into physical, behavioral, and psychological symptoms. Recognizing these early warning signals is crucial in identifying when casual drinking may have escalated into addiction—whether it’s in yourself or someone close to you. Early detection plays a vital role in seeking effective help and treatment.
Physical Signs of Alcohol Addiction
As alcohol dependence sets in, the body begins to exhibit noticeable physical symptoms. One of the earliest red flags is increased tolerance—the need to drink more alcohol to achieve the same effects. This signals that the body is becoming physically dependent on alcohol.
If alcohol use is reduced or stopped, withdrawal symptoms can develop quickly. These may include:
- Shaking or tremors
- Heavy sweating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headaches
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
In more severe cases, withdrawal can lead to seizures or a life-threatening condition known as delirium tremens (DTs), which requires immediate medical intervention.
Alcohol also interferes with the central nervous system, which can cause poor coordination, slurred speech, and slowed reflexes—all of which make routine tasks more difficult and dangerous.
As the addiction progresses, individuals may also experience unintended weight loss and neglect of personal hygiene. This decline in self-care often results in a noticeably disheveled or unhealthy appearance.
Behavioral Signs of Alcohol Addiction
Changes in behavior are often the most apparent indicators of alcohol addiction. A common sign is drinking more than intended or continuing to drink longer than planned, despite efforts to cut back. Repeated, unsuccessful attempts to stop drinking often reflect a loss of control.
Alcohol addiction can severely disrupt daily responsibilities. Individuals may:
- Miss work or school
- Fall behind on tasks
- Neglect obligations at home
A growing portion of time is often dedicated to drinking, thinking about alcohol, or recovering from its effects—leaving little room for other priorities or interests. This pattern gradually overtakes the person’s schedule, leading to social withdrawal and reduced engagement in daily life.
Psychological Signs of Alcohol Addiction
The psychological effects of alcohol addiction are deeply disruptive. Persistent cravings and urges to drink—despite negative consequences—are a hallmark of addiction.
Mood instability is common, with individuals often experiencing:
- Sudden irritability or anger
- Aggression
- Emotional outbursts
These emotional shifts can damage both personal and professional relationships.
Since alcohol is a depressant, it can worsen existing mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. Many people turn to alcohol to cope, but frequent use typically deepens emotional struggles, creating a vicious cycle of self-medication.
Chronic drinking also affects memory and cognitive function. Blackouts—gaps in memory where the individual cannot recall events—highlight the significant impact of alcohol on the brain. These episodes reflect serious impairment in mental clarity and decision-making.
How to Treat Alcohol Addiction
The path to overcoming alcohol addiction begins with acknowledging the problem. While some individuals may try to stop drinking on their own, physical cravings and psychological dependence can make it incredibly challenging. Recognizing the need for professional help is a critical step toward achieving lasting recovery and a healthier, more stable life.
Detoxification
Detox marks the initial stage of treatment, centered on eliminating alcohol from the body and managing the physical effects of withdrawal. This process can be difficult, often involving symptoms such as:
- Shaking or tremors
- Nausea and vomiting
- Excessive sweating
- Heightened anxiety
- In severe cases, seizures
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) can be a powerful part of recovery, especially when used alongside counseling and behavioral support. These medications help reduce alcohol cravings, minimize withdrawal symptoms, and lower the risk of relapse.
Common medications include:
- Naltrexone – Diminishes the pleasurable effects of alcohol and helps curb the urge to drink.
- Acamprosate – Supports brain recovery by restoring chemical balance disrupted by long-term alcohol use.
- Disulfiram (Antabuse) – Triggers unpleasant physical reactions when alcohol is consumed, serving as a strong deterrent.
While medications can make recovery more manageable, they are most effective when paired with therapy, peer support, and comprehensive care.
Therapy and Counseling
Therapy is a cornerstone of alcohol addiction recovery, offering individuals the opportunity to explore the emotional and psychological drivers behind their drinking and to develop healthier, more effective coping strategies.
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with alcohol use. By understanding personal triggers and learning alternative responses, people can reduce cravings and build resilience against relapse.
- Motivational Interviewing (MI): This therapeutic approach focuses on enhancing a person’s internal motivation to change. Through guided, supportive conversations, individuals are encouraged to explore their values and reasons for quitting, helping to cultivate long-term commitment.
- Family and Group Therapy: Since alcohol addiction often strains personal relationships, therapy can also involve loved ones. Family therapy works to repair communication and heal emotional rifts, while group therapy fosters a sense of community and shared experience, offering support, accountability, and encouragement.
- Individual Therapy: Offers a private space to work through trauma, mental health conditions, or emotional struggles that contribute to substance use.
For many individuals, addiction is deeply intertwined with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, or past trauma. Addressing both simultaneously through integrated treatment is vital to long-term recovery. When combined with medications and lifestyle changes, therapy can restore emotional stability and lower the risk of relapse.
Support Groups and Peer Networks
Connecting with others who have faced similar struggles can be incredibly empowering. Peer support provides not only accountability but also emotional strength.
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): As one of the most recognized recovery programs, AA uses a 12-step model emphasizing spiritual growth, personal responsibility, and fellowship. Regular meetings and mentorship are central to the program.
- Non-12-Step Alternatives: Programs like SMART Recovery and LifeRing offer science-based, secular approaches to recovery. These focus on self-empowerment, cognitive tools, and personal development without a spiritual component.
- The Power of Peer Support: Engaging with others who understand the challenges of addiction reduces feelings of isolation and offers practical tips, encouragement, and a shared sense of purpose.
Building a Healthy Lifestyle
Sustained recovery goes beyond abstaining from alcohol—it requires creating a life that supports both physical and emotional well-being.
- Creating a Routine: A structured daily schedule that includes regular meals, physical activity, and rest helps stabilize emotions and promote healthy habits.
- Nutrition and Exercise: Regular exercise boosts mood and reduces cravings, while a nutrient-rich diet supports the body’s healing from the effects of alcohol.
- Stress Management: Healthy outlets such as yoga, meditation, creative hobbies, or journaling can help release tension and process emotions in a constructive way.
- Avoiding Triggers: Recognizing and avoiding people, places, or situations that prompt the urge to drink is a critical skill for maintaining sobriety.
Long-Term Recovery and Preventing Relapse
Recovery is an ongoing journey that requires intention, preparation, and support. Building strategies for long-term success is essential.
- Developing Coping Skills: Learning to manage stress, anxiety, and emotional discomfort without relying on alcohol is crucial. Techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, and cognitive restructuring can be powerful tools.
- Relapse Prevention Planning: Being aware of potential triggers and having a proactive strategy for navigating them can greatly reduce the risk of relapse.
- Maintaining a Support System: Staying connected to friends, family, recovery peers, or mentors provides strength, encouragement, and a reminder that no one has to face the journey alone.
Alcohol Addiction Treatment in Maine
If you or someone you care about is struggling with alcohol addiction, know that compassionate, professional help is available. Evergreen Behavioral Health offers flexible, outpatient programs at our office in Portland, Maine.
Our treatment center is open 24/7, and our programs are designed to support recovery while allowing clients to maintain work, school, and family obligations. We know that effective treatment must also be practical, which is why we focus on helping clients apply the tools and strategies learned in therapy to their everyday lives.
Call us at (888) 907-7290, email info@evergreenbh.com, or visit us in person at 707 Sable Oaks Drive in South Portland, ME (04106).
Don’t wait—your path to healing starts now.