We’ve discussed the need for treating the alcoholic, as well as getting help for the rest of the family. But what kind of treatment is best? What help is available? Just as there are many choices in dealing with any medical problem, from a headache to heart disease, alcoholics and their families can choose from many forms of treatment.

Inpatient Treatment
This approach requires the alcoholic to remain in a treatment center for a certain period of time (usually 30 to 90 days). During this time, the patient participates in individual and group therapy, education about the nature of addiction, and workshops or lectures on coping skills and strategies to promote sobriety and prevent relapse. Medications may be dispensed, if necessary. Most programs also introduce patients to the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous.

Outpatient Treatment
As an Outpatient, the alcoholic attends the treatment facility on a regular schedule to participate in therapy groups, abstinence education and relapse avoidance workshops, 12 Step meetings and other activities similar to those offered in Inpatient treatment. The length and frequency of these visits will vary—not only from one program to another, but from patient to patient.

Detox
It may also be necessary for the alcoholic to undergo “detox.” Depending on the severity of the alcoholic’s physical condition, detoxification allows the residue of years of alcohol abuse to work its way out of the patient’s system, while medication is prescribed to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Detox itself is not a “recovery” program—in the sense of helping the alcoholic abstain from drinking. It simply allows the alcoholic’s mind and body to be prepared to participate in the treatment process.

Aftercare Programs
In many ways, aftercare programs are similar to Outpatient treatment. Aftercare allows the recovering alcoholic to return to the treatment facility regularly to maintain the desire (as well as the skills) to remain sober.

Patients are encouraged to remain in contact with their counselors and other patients, who can lend support during difficult stages of early sobriety. Aftercare programs also offer workshops and lectures on issues of sobriety and recovery.

Some facilities offer concurrent treatment programs for family members. Doctors and other health professionals will work with the family of the alcoholic to help them identify patterns of codependent behavior, as well as “roles” that each family member plays. Through counseling, family members learn more productive and supportive ways to interact, so they can respond to the newly sober alcoholic with appropriate love and care.
 
To find a treatment program that can help the alcoholic in your family—and the rest of the family, as well—please call (800) 344-9591. You’ll speak with an understanding person who knows how to help your entire family get on the road to recovery.