Alcoholism
Alcoholism is a chronic addiction disorder in which a person becomes dependent on alcohol. Individuals with this condition are unable to control how much they drink and often experience serious consequences as a result of their alcohol consumption. Some people may not be characterized as alcoholics, but can suffer from alcohol abuse, meaning that they drink excessively but are not fully dependent on alcohol. Both conditions are considered serious and require long-term treatment in order to resume a normal, fully functioning lifestyle.
Causes of Alcoholism
Both alcoholism and alcohol abuse can develop over time as a result of several different factors. Some patients may be genetically predisposed to developing these conditions, including those with a family history of alcohol problems. Many people may develop alcoholism as a result of high stress and anxiety levels, low self-esteem, or depression. Additional risk factors for developing alcoholism may include:
- Steady and increased drinking over time
- People who begin drinking at an early age
- Social and cultural factors
- Certain mental health disorders such as bipolar disorder
- Mixing alcohol and medication
Symptoms of Alcoholism
Many people with alcoholism deny that they have a drinking problem. Friends and family may be aware of certain signs of this condition, however not everyone with a drinking problem is necessarily an alcoholic. Signs of alcoholism or alcohol abuse may include:
- Drinking alone
- Uncontrollable drinking
- Frequently blacking out
- Feeling a need to drink
- Loss of interest in other activities or hobbies
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking
- Hiding drinking or drinking secretly
- Keeping alcohol at work or in the car
- Becoming intoxicated to feel good
Alcoholism can cause problems in personal relationships, with employment or finances and can affect every aspect of a person’s life.
Complications of Alcoholism
In addition to the personal and social ramifications of alcoholism, alcohol can affect a person’s judgment causing poor choices to be made. People suffering from alcoholism may be involved in motor vehicle accidents, domestic disputes, and have an increased likelihood of committing violent crimes. Alcoholism may also cause a variety of health- related problems including:
- Liver disease
- Heart problems
- Digestive problems
- Sexual dysfunction
- Weakened immune system
- Diabetes complications
- Increased cancer risk
- Neurological problems
- Birth defects if alcohol is used during pregnancy
Treatment of Alcoholism
Treatment for alcoholism varies, but the common goals are to help the individual stop abusing alcohol, maintain an alcohol-free lifestyle, and sustain a productive family and professional life. The first step in successful treatment of alcoholism often begins when the individual admits that they have a problem and need help. Treatments may differ based on the individual, and the depend on different factors including; the dependence on alcohol, physical health and medical history, age and lifestyle. Common treatment options for alcoholism may include:
- Counseling
- Aversion therapy
- Detoxification
- Intervention
- Medication
- Spiritual practice
These treatments may be administered at an inpatient or outpatient facility, and may be short or long-term. In addition, alcoholism commonly occurs along with other mental health disorders, so treatment for these underlying conditions may be a part of the treatment process. It is important for patients with alcoholism to have a strong support system through friends and family or self-help groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. Recovering from alcoholism is a life-long commitment that requires strength and determination.
Additional Resources
Featured Services
Medication
Management
Psychiatric medications are invaluable in achieving recovery from mental illness and safe treatment of symptoms. Our practice offers comprehensive medication management delivered by board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. Our clinicians utilize a holistic approach that incorporates in depth knowledge of how pre-existing medical conditions can influence and trigger psychiatric symptoms. The decision to begin medication management is a combined effort between the Provider and the individual patient.
Therapist
Referrals
Our board certified Nurse Practitioners work with a select group of well experienced Licensed Therapists in the Las Vegas area. Depending on the patient’s symptoms and goals, the patient and the Provider will determine if therapy could offer solutions to the current situation. Therapy can include individual, group or family for adults and children. Finding the right Licensed Therapist for your individual needs is very important. The Therapy referrals available at Mighty Mental Health will ensure that every available tool is being utilized to help reach each patient’s goal.
ADHD Testing and
Treatment
Our office offers both in office and online ADHD Testing for both children and adults. Our board certified Nurse Practitioners are trained to administer the tests and discuss the results with the patients and family. Testing is a great tool for Providers to use to help determine the best treatment plan for all patients. Our office uses the state of the art software created by QbCheck to help diagnose and track our ADHD patients.
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2685 South Rainbow Blvd
Suite 206
Las Vegas, NV 89146
- 702-479-1600
- Fax 702-479-1993
- OFFICE HOURS
- By Appointment Only
- Mon: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Tues: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Wed: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Thurs: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Fri: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Sat: 10:00am - 3:00pm
- Sun: Closed