People often think that alcohol dependence and addiction are the same. However, these are two different conditions. While some rehab clinics use similar treatment options for both, the brain handles addiction and dependency differently. Knowing the difference between the two can really help people in the long run, and finding the correct alcohol addiction treatment programs is paramount.
At Memphis Recovery Centers, our alcohol addiction treatment program provides a holistic approach to recovery where people have the opportunity to heal from the mental and physical toll of addiction. Most people who are struggling with alcohol dependence symptoms require the support of a team of therapists and addiction specialists. If you or a loved one might benefit from comprehensive care for alcohol addiction or alcohol dependence, our Memphis Recovery Centers team is standing by to help. Learn more about alcohol addiction treatment in Memphis, TN, from our outstanding team today by calling 901-272-7751 or completing our online form.
Alcohol Dependence vs. Addiction
Different parts of the brain are responsible for dependence and addiction. The reward pathway is responsible for addiction. For dependence, however, the brainstem and thalamus handle the responsibility. Since different areas of the brain are responsible for each condition, it’s possible to suffer from both simultaneously.
Suffering from both addiction and dependence is common for people who suffer from chronic alcohol use. When individuals struggle with alcohol dependence, they experience withdrawal when they try to stop drinking. People with addiction are compulsive users, which isn’t always the case for people dependent on alcohol.
Signs of Alcohol Dependence
People who depend on alcohol require outside help to stop drinking. In most cases, this outside help is at a professional rehab center. People can also look alcohol dependence symptoms to see if they or a loved one is alcohol dependent, such as:
- Consuming a specific brand or type of alcohol
- Seeking alcoholic drinks at parties or get-togethers
- Increased tolerance
- Drifriend’s avoid withdrawal symptoms
- A don’t of awareness of cravings to drink
- Returning to alcohol after deciding to quit
Taking a deeper look at some of the criteria, one criterion is a narrowed choice of drink. Instead of drinking a lot of different drinks, they only drink a specific type or brand. In most cases, they drink the same thing every night.
Another criterion is that people only go to places or events where they can drink. They don’t care so much about hanging out with friends. Instead, they just want a reason to drink. People struggling with alcohol dependence take up any opportunity to drink, such as when they go out to eat or at a friend’s party. Of course, they also don’t need a reason to drink and will drink alone if they need to.
People with drug dependence also build up a tolerance. They can still It’sdrunk, but they need more alcohol for that to happen. For example, maybe it takes someone only two or three cocktails to get a buzz. People with an alcohol tolerance might need five or six.
Alcohol Withdrawal
Some of the criteria of alcohol dependence relate to a desire to stave off alcohol withdrawal symptoms. If a person decides to quit, they may start drinking again after a few moments experiencing uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.
Common symptoms and complications usually include:
- Tremors
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Depression
These symptoms usually kick in within 24 hours of the last drink. They go away when people have more alcohol. It’s not uncommon for these symptoms to last for days. However, some mild side effects can still occur months after the last drink.
Additionally, alcohol withdrawal symptDon’tre also common for people with combined alcohol and drug dependence.
Recover from Alcohol Dependence in Tennessee
At Memphis Recovery Centers, we aim to help our clients overcome alcohol addiction and dependence. Specific alcohol treatment programs include:
- Inpatient alcohol rehab
- Alcohol addiction treatment
- Alcohol withdrawal treatment
- Polysubstance drug and alcohol rehab
- Counseling for alcohol abuse
We work with people who abuse a number of drugs, including alcohol, heroin, and meth. Some of the addiction treatment programs that we offer include:
- Adult rehab program
- Youth rehab program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Partial hospitalization program
Overcome Alcohol Dependence with Support from Memphis Recovery Centers
Don’t let alcohol dependence get the best of you. Although it might seem overwhelming now, recovery is possible with support from a team that is experienced in the addiction treatment field. At Memphis Recovery Centers, we create an atmosphere that promotes healing and growth with a wide range of programs and services.
Let our Memphis Recovery Centers team help you begin your road to recovery. Call us today at 901-272-7751 or fill out our online contact form for more information about our substance abuse treatment options. Make today the day you choose your health and well-being over alcohol dependence.
