Leaving Alcohol Behind: A Guide to Quitting Drinking

The first step to treating addiction is to ask for help. This guide will discuss ways to quit drinking and explore addiction treatment.

Quitting drinking is not as simple as deciding to give up alcohol and never having a drink again. If you have become dependent on alcohol and you have an alcohol addiction, it can be incredibly challenging to leave alcohol behind. 

If you are concerned about a loved one or you’re worried that you are addicted to drinking, the first step is to acknowledge the problem and ask for help. In this guide, we’ll discuss ways to quit drinking and explore addiction treatment options. 

Identifying Signs of Alcohol Abuse

One of the most difficult parts of tackling alcohol abuse is fronting up to the fact that you’re not in control of your drinking habits and behaviors. There is a difference between drinking too much and alcohol abuse. 

Alcohol abuse can have devastating consequences for the individual and the people closest to them. To seek help and advice, it’s beneficial to be aware of the signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse. Some of the signs and symptoms include:

  • Craving alcohol and experiencing compulsions to drink
  • Continuing to consume alcohol despite being aware of the damage it is causing to your health, relationships, performance at work, or financial situation
  • Putting your safety and that of others at risk
  • Lying to others about your drinking habits
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you don’t drink
  • Drinking more to achieve the desired effects due to increased alcohol tolerance
  • Devoting more time and energy to alcohol
  • Using alcohol as a coping mechanism or a form of escapism over a prolonged period

How to Quit Drinking

Leaving Alcohol Behind: A Guide to Quitting Drinking

Everyone is different, and there are various paths people can take if they want to quit drinking. In some cases, it may be possible to leave alcohol behind by taking medication or using treatments and therapies prescribed or recommended by doctors. 

Some people may be able to give up with the support of their loved ones or groups that specialize in alcohol addiction support and recovery. In many cases, to tackle alcohol addiction in the long term, individuals require intensive support and expert treatment provided by a specialist addiction treatment center. 

Drug rehab and alcohol rehab facilities offer programs, such as inpatient and outpatient services, which are designed to help individuals to quit and prepare them for the future and the challenges it may pose.

The Robert Alexander Center for Recovery is a drug and alcohol rehab program based in Kentucky, which utilizes personalized, evidence-based treatment plans to facilitate long-term substance abuse recovery. 

We specialize in bespoke alcohol treatment plans, which cater to the needs of the individual, combining therapies and treatments to oversee safe detox and withdrawal and provide inpatient rehab and expert aftercare. Our experienced team is on hand from the first call to discharge.

We recognize that addiction affects everyone in different ways, and there is no magical, one-size-fits-all cure. We are here to support individuals and their loved ones to achieve long-term goals.

Conclusion

Quitting drinking is incredibly difficult if you are dependent on alcohol. There are multiple ways to give up or cut down, but for those who are addicted to alcohol, intensive treatment and recovery programs are often the best option. 

If you have any questions about alcohol treatment, or you’d like to find out more about drug treatment or the addiction treatment services we offer, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help.

All About Alcohol Addiction: A Comprehensive Resource Page

On this page, we’ll explain everything you need to know about alcohol addiction, such as what it is, its impacts, and more. Learn more today!

It can be enjoyable to have a glass of wine or a couple of beers after a long day of work. However, it’s always worth keeping in mind that, if you’re consuming too many drinks, then you could fall into alcohol addiction, which can have a significant and negative impact on your health, lifestyle, and overall well-being. 

Sadly, more people than ever before are falling into a cycle of alcohol abuse. Still, it’s important to remember that while alcohol addiction is problematic, there is a pathway to recovery. By seeking alcohol treatment from an addiction treatment center, you can put yourself on the road toward a better life. 

On this page, we’ll run through everything you need to know about alcohol addiction, including what it is, the impacts, and the benefits of going into alcohol rehab and receiving addiction treatment.

The Dangers of Alcohol Addiction

There’s not a lot that can go right from alcohol abuse, but there sure is a lot that can go wrong. A single night of overindulgence can lead to injuries that result from an alcohol-induced accident. Did you know that thousands of people die each year, due to injuries they have sustained via an alcohol-related accident?

There can be many more consequences of alcohol addiction, too. For example, it can cause a person to underperform at work, impact their financial standing, and impact the health of their personal relationships. 

If you’re experiencing alcohol addiction, then it’s important to seek help from a drug rehab clinic as soon as possible, to ensure it doesn’t impact your life any more than it needs to. 

What Causes Alcohol Addiction?

Anyone can experience alcohol addiction. There’s no single profile that leads to the abuse of alcohol. However, there are certain things that make it more likely. Many people use alcohol as a way to handle the stress associated with their work life. 

Others seek out alcohol because they have underlying mental health issues; the alcohol serves as self-medication, but in fact, it ends up making the problem worse. Some people end up relying on alcohol too much purely because of lifestyle factors (for example, they spend a lot of time with a friend group that drinks heavily).

Regardless of the cause of alcohol addiction, there is always help available. A reputable and experienced drug treatment clinic has the tools and expertise you need to help move past your alcohol abuse issues once and for all.

Signs of Alcohol Addiction

As we said earlier: anyone can fall into alcohol addiction. The key thing is to be aware of the signs that you (or a loved one) may have a problem. 

There’s no magic bullet that everyone should be looking for — rather, the signs of alcohol addiction will be particular to you, and will depend on your own experience and lifestyle. Some signs that you may have a problem with alcohol include:

  • Your alcohol intake is beginning to impact your performance at work
  • Your alcohol intake is impacting your finances
  • You find yourself finding ways to drink at unusual times or in unusual settings
  • Your personal hygiene and general standard of life is decreasing
  • There is a family history of alcohol addiction. 

Alcohol Addiction Treatment 

If you suspect that you may have a problem with alcohol, then it’s important to take action. That you have the problem isn’t what’s important: what counts is how you respond to the problem. 

There are a host of effective alcohol addiction treatments available. Here at the Robert Alexander Center, we offer a range of treatments and will work with you to help you to select the one that’s right for you.

Your treatment may be inpatient or outpatient, short-term or long-term. Many people try to overcome their alcohol addiction on their own, but studies have shown that a person is much more likely to overcome their issues if they do so with professional and organized support. 

Contact the Robert Alexander Center Today

If you think that you may have an alcohol addiction and you’re ready to begin your journey towards a better you, then get in contact with us at the Robert Alexander Center today. We offer a range of services that will help you. 

Our customer-first focus ensures that you’ll be comfortable working with us from day one — and you can have confidence that we’ll be by your side right along your journey, too. Contact us today to get the supporting framework you need to say goodbye to alcohol and get your life back on track.

Seasonal Depression And Alcohol Addiction: 5 Tips To Avoid Triggers

Seasonal Depression And Alcohol Addiction: 5 Tips To Avoid Triggers

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that affects some people around the same time each year e.g. at the start of fall or winter. This type of seasonal depression often goes away once the season changes.

There are various reasons explaining why seasonal depression happens including:

  • Change in melatonin levels which in turn negatively impacts an individual’s mood and sleep pattern.
  • Change in the circadian rhythm caused by reduced sunlight disrupts a person’s internal clock making them moody and lethargic.
  • A drop in serotonin levels affects an individual’s mood, appetite and sleep leading to depression.

Seasonal Depression and Alcohol Abuse

The symptoms of seasonal depression can be unpleasant, driving individuals to take alcohol in an attempt to feel better. Additionally, the winter season comes with plenty of holidays, celebrations and parties which often involve alcohol, encouraging people to drink more. Unfortunately, alcohol is a depressant and after the initial high wears off, the person often feels worse with increased gloominess, anxiety and depression. This only worsens the situation for those struggling with seasonal depression.

The key to dealing with SAD is learning how to avoid triggers by improving one’s lifestyle as well as by seeking appropriate treatment.

5 Tips to Avoid Triggers

Get moving

Seasonal Depression And Alcohol Addiction: 5 Tips To Avoid Triggers

Getting at least 30 minutes of exercise daily can boost your serotonin and mood. Exercising outdoors when the weather allows is a great way to get some sunlight and it’ll make you feel better.

Get as much sun as you can

Increasing your exposure to natural light has been shown to have a positive effect on your mood. So open up the blinds, go for a walk outside and find other ways to increase your vitamin D from the sun.

Try phototherapy

When there isn’t any natural sunlight available, a light box can come in handy. This is a device that emits light designed to mimic sunlight and it’s recommended that those struggling with seasonal depression sit in front of one for about 20-30 minutes after waking up.

Make time for socializing

Another great way to cheer you up while keeping your mind off alcohol is by spending time with your family and loved ones. Instead of isolating yourself indoors when the weather becomes cold, find some enjoyable group activities to engage in.

Seek treatment

If you’re dealing with seasonal depression and alcohol addiction, we at the Robert Alexander Center for Recovery can help. We have various addiction treatment programs to help people struggling with a dual diagnosis starting with a detox program and then following with either intensive outpatient treatment or an outpatient treatment program. We also have a family therapy program for families that have been affected by alcoholism

We at the Robert Alexander Center for Recovery in Kentucky care about you and are ready to help you recover from alcohol addiction. Get in touch with us today.

Can You Safely Detox From Alcohol Addiction At Home?

When it comes to alcohol addiction, detoxing from the substance can be a very difficult process. This is why many people choose to undergo detox at a rehab center. However, there are some people who choose to detox from alcohol at home. 

Is this a safe option?

Need a Strong Support System

The first thing to consider is whether or not you have a strong support system. If you detox at home, it is important to have friends or family members who can help you through the process. They can provide emotional support and help you stay on track. 

On the other hand, if you detox at a rehab center, you will be surrounded by professionals who can help you through the process. You will also have access to medical care if needed. 

So, which option is best for you? It really depends on your individual situation. If you feel like you would benefit from the support of friends and family, then detoxing at home may be the best option for you. However, if you feel like you need more professional help, then detoxing at a rehab center may be the better choice.

Consider the Length of Time

Another factor to consider is the length of time it will take to detox. Detoxing from alcohol can be a very long and difficult process. If you are considering detoxing at home, you need to make sure that you have the time and patience to see it through. 

On the other hand, if you detox at a rehab center, they will typically have a set length of time for the detox process. This can be helpful if you are worried about taking too long or not being able to stick with it. 

So, which option is best for you? It really depends on your individual situation. If you feel like you can commit to a long and difficult detox process, then detoxing at home may be the best option for you. However, if you feel like you need a set length of time, then detoxing at a rehab center may be the better choice.

Consider the Risks

You need to consider the risks involved with both options. Detoxing from alcohol can be a very dangerous process. If you detox at home, there is always the risk that something could go wrong. 

You could have a medical emergency, or you could relapse and start drinking again. On the other hand, if you detox at a rehab center, they will have staff on hand to help you through any difficult situations. They will also be able to provide you with medical care if needed. 

Which option is best for you? It really depends on your individual situation. If you feel like you can handle the risks involved with detoxing at home, then that may be the best option for you. However, if you feel like you need more support, then detoxing at a rehab center may be the better choice.

Consider Your Goals

Finally, you need to consider your goals for detoxing from alcohol. If you detox at home, it is important to set realistic goals. For example, you may want to set a goal of not drinking for a certain period of time, or you may want to set a goal of drinking less each day. 

On the other hand, if you detox at a rehab center, they will typically have their own goals for you. These goals may be different from what you would set for yourself. So, which option is best for you? 

It really depends on your individual situation. If you feel like you can commit to your own goals, then detoxing at home may be the best option for you. However, if you feel like you need more structure, then detoxing at a rehab center may be the better choice.

Can You Safely Detox From Alcohol Addiction At Home?

The short answer is: maybe. Making the decision to detox from alcohol is a very difficult one. There are many factors to consider before making a decision. However, if you take the time to consider all of these factors, you will be able to make the best decision for your individual situation. 

Detoxing from alcohol can be a very difficult and dangerous process, but it is important to remember that there are resources available to help you through it. If you feel like you need more support, then detoxing at a rehab center may be the best option for you. However, if you feel like you can handle the risks and commit to your goals, then detoxing at home may be the best option for you.

Detoxing from alcohol can be a very difficult and dangerous process, but it is important to remember that there are resources available to help you through it. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, the Robert Alexander Center for Recovery can help.


We offer a variety of programs and services designed to help our clients achieve their goals. Call us today to learn more about our program and how we can help you achieve your goals.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy For Alcohol Addiction Treatment

It is no secret that addiction is a serious problem. It not only takes a toll on the addict but also on those around them. Families are torn apart, friends are lost, and jobs are put in jeopardy.

While there are many different types of addiction, one of the most difficult to overcome is alcoholism. This is because alcohol is so readily available and socially acceptable. It can be easy to fall into a pattern of drinking too much without realizing it.

That’s where dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) comes in. DBT is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that helps people learn new skills to cope with difficult situations. It can be an effective treatment for alcoholism, as well as other types of addiction.

DBT teaches people to be more mindful of their thoughts and actions. It also helps them to develop healthier coping mechanisms for dealing with stress and other triggers.

One of the most important aspects of DBT is learning how to regulate emotions. This is because many people turn to alcohol in order to self-medicate when they’re feeling down or stressed out.

The DBT Process

DBT is typically conducted in a group setting, though individual therapy may also be used.

The first step is to learn about the stages of change. This helps people to understand where they’re at in their journey and what they need to do to move forward.

Next, people are taught skills in four areas: mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance.

  • Mindfulness skills help people to be more aware of their thoughts and feelings in the present moment. This can help them to better control their reactions to triggers.
  • Interpersonal effectiveness skills help people to communicate more effectively and set boundaries with others. This is important for maintaining relationships while sober.
  • Emotional regulation skills help people to manage their emotions in a healthy way. This can prevent them from turning to alcohol as a way to cope with difficult emotions.
  • Distress tolerance skills help people to deal with difficult situations in a healthy way. This can prevent them from turning to alcohol as a way to escape from problems.

After learning these skills, people are given homework assignments to practice what they’ve learned. They may also be asked to participate in role-playing exercises in order to better understand how to apply the skills in real-life situations.

By learning how to better deal with emotions, DBT can help people to reduce their reliance on alcohol. This, in turn, can help to prevent relapse and make sobriety more sustainable in the long term.

DBT is usually conducted over the course of several months, though the length of treatment may vary depending on the individual’s needs.

Is DBT Right for You?

If you’re struggling with alcoholism, you may be wondering if DBT is right for you. The best way to find out is to talk to a qualified mental health professional.

They can assess your situation and determine whether DBT would be an appropriate treatment for you. They can also provide you with more information about how DBT works and what you can expect from treatment.

What about Detox?

If you’re struggling with alcoholism, you may need to go through detox before starting DBT. Detox is a process of ridding your body of the alcohol in your system.

This can be done on your own at home, but it’s often best to detox under the supervision of a doctor or other qualified professional. This is because detox can be dangerous and even life-threatening if not done properly.

After you’ve detoxed, you can then begin working on the skills taught in DBT. This will help you to better cope with triggers and reduce your reliance on alcohol.

Outpatient vs. Intensive Outpatient Treatment

DBT is typically conducted in an outpatient setting, which means you can attend treatment while continuing to live at home and work or go to school.

Outpatient treatment usually consists of weekly group therapy sessions and weekly individual therapy sessions. You may also be given homework assignments to practice the skills you’re learning in treatment.

Intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) is similar to outpatient treatment, but it’s more intense. IOP usually consists of 3-5 group therapy sessions per week and 3-5 individual therapy sessions per week.

Like outpatient treatment, you’ll also be given homework assignments to practice the skills you’re learning in treatment.

IOP is often recommended for people who are struggling with more severe alcoholism. It’s also recommended for people who have been through detox and are looking for a more intensive treatment option.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. DBT may be able to provide the tools you need to overcome addiction and build a healthier, happier life.

What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy For Alcohol Addiction Treatment

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that helps people change their thinking and behavior. CBT is a widely used and evidence-based treatment for many mental health conditions, including addiction.

CBT for addiction treatment focuses on helping people to:

  • Identify and manage triggers that can lead to drinking
  • Address negative thoughts and emotions that can lead to drinking
  • Develop coping and problem-solving skills
  • Improve communication and relationship skills

CBT can be done in individual or group settings, and it typically lasts for 12 weeks or more. Some people may need longer-term treatment, depending on the severity of their addiction.

The Process: How Does CBT Work for Addiction?

CBT for addiction treatment is usually a process of 12 weekly sessions. During each session, you will work with a therapist to:

  • Identify and understand your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that are related to your drinking
  • Challenge and change any negative or distorted thinking patterns
  • Practice using new coping and problem-solving skills
  • Set goals for changing your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors

CBT typically starts with an initial assessment to help the therapist better understand your unique situation. From there, the therapist will work with you to identify your goals for treatment. Together, you will develop a plan to help you reach those goals.

Each session will focus on a different topic, such as triggers, cravings, stress management, and communication skills. The therapist will provide you with tools and resources to help you practice using these new skills in your daily life.

As you progress in treatment, the therapist will help you slowly increase the difficulty of the skills you are learning. For example, you may start by practicing coping with triggers in a safe and controlled environment, such as in the therapist’s office. As you get better at using the skills you’ve learned, you will be able to practice them in more challenging situations, such as when you are out with friends or at a party.

The goal of CBT is to help you develop long-lasting skills that can help you manage your addiction and live a sober, healthy life.

Benefits of CBT for Addiction Treatment

CBT is an effective treatment for alcohol addiction and has been shown to help people reduce their drinking, abstain from drinking, and prevent relapse.

CBT can also help to:

  • Improve communication and relationship skills
  • Reduce stress and anxiety
  • Improve coping skills
  • Increase self-esteem and confidence
  • Enhance motivation to change

Research has shown that CBT is an effective treatment for alcohol addiction. In one study, people who received CBT were more likely to stay abstinent from alcohol at follow-up than those who did not receive CBT.

What is Detoxification?

Detoxification, also known as detox, is the first step in most addiction treatment programs. Detox is a process of letting your body rid itself of the drugs or alcohol you’ve been using.

While detox can be an important and necessary step in addiction treatment, it is not a treatment itself. Detox should always be done under the supervision of a medical professional, such as a doctor or nurse.

Detox can be uncomfortable and even dangerous, so it’s important to have someone there to help you through it. The symptoms of withdrawal can vary depending on the substance you’ve been using. 

The detox process can last for a few days to a week or more. Once you’ve detoxed from the substance, you will be able to start other forms of treatment, such as CBT.

What is Intensive Outpatient Treatment?

Intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) is a type of treatment that provides therapy and support while allowing you to live at home and continue with your daily life. IOP can be a good option for people who have completed detox and residential treatment but still need help to stay sober.

IOP usually consists of group and individual therapy sessions 3-5 days per week, for 3-5 hours per day. During these sessions, you will work with a therapist to:

  • Identify thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that are related to your drinking
  • Challenge and change any negative or distorted thinking patterns
  • Practice using new coping and problem-solving skills
  • Set goals for changing your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors
  • Develop a plan for maintaining sobriety after treatment

IOP can last for a few weeks to several months, depending on your needs.

After completing IOP, you may transition to a less intensive level of care, such as individual therapy or a 12-step program. Or you may be discharged from treatment altogether.

CBT is just one part of a comprehensive treatment plan for alcohol addiction. Treatment should also include medical detoxification and participation in a 12-step program or other support groups. With treatment, people with alcohol addiction can recover and live healthy, productive lives.