Alcohol Addiction Treatment in New Jersey

Alcohol addiction can have a deep effect on individuals and families, which we understand at New Jersey Behavioral Health.

Alcohol addiction is a chronic disease. It’s also known as alcohol use disorder. Alcoholism is relatively common in the United States, as are problematic patterns of use like binge drinking. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), an estimated 29 million people ages 12 and older have an alcohol use disorder.[1]

People with alcohol use disorder, also known as alcohol addiction, aren’t able to control or stop drinking despite bad consequences. Alcohol addiction affects individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life. Overcoming it requires professional support and help.

Our New Jersey treatment center offers evidence-based programs to address individual needs when someone is struggling with alcohol addiction. We believe in a holistic approach to recovery. We treat the whole person, not just the symptoms of the disease itself. This includes addressing the mind, body and spirit.

Alcohol Addiction: Development, Signs and the Need for Treatment

Alcohol addiction or alcohol use disorder is progressive and chronic. This is true of other substance use disorders as well. You can’t control how much alcohol you consume even though it’s causing harmful consequences in different parts of your life.

Addiction involves a physical and mental dependence on alcohol. It can lead to health, social and legal problems.

Becoming addicted to alcohol usually develops over time. A drinking problem can escalate from social or occasional drinking to building tolerance and heavy drinking to get the same effects.

From there, as tolerance increases, dependence develops. When you’re dependent on alcohol, you may have withdrawal symptoms when you’re not drinking.

In people with alcoholism, drinking is prioritized over other aspects of life.

Some of the signs of an addiction can include:

  • Strong urges and cravings to drink.
  • Not be able to limit drinking once starting.
  • Neglecting responsibilities because of drinking.
  • Continued drinking even though it’s causing problems.

Professional alcohol addiction treatment is needed because it’s a complex disease.

Professional treatment for alcohol addiction offers a comprehensive and holistic approach, including evidence-based therapies, support and structure, and mental health care for co-occurring disorders.

Recognizing the red flags of addiction is the first step toward recovery.

Alcohol dependency and addiction are included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It can be diagnosed as mild, moderate or severe depending on how many symptoms are experienced.[2]

Consequences of the Effects of Alcohol

When someone engages in alcohol misuse or has an alcohol problem, there is a wide range of potential effects. These effects of alcohol can include:[3]

 

  • Liver disease.
  • Cardiovascular problems.
  • Digestive issues.
  • Neurological damage, including memory loss and cognitive impairments.
  • Weakened immune system.
  • Increased risk of injuries and accidents.
  • Mental health disorders.
  • Emotional instability.
  • Strained relationships.
  • Problems at school or work.
  • Legal problems.
  • Decreased quality of life.
  • Higher risk of premature death.
  • Alcohol withdrawal symptoms when not drinking.

Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder

At New Jersey Behavioral Health, we use a range of therapies as part of our alcohol addiction treatment programs. These can include:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): In CBT, you start by identifying negative thought patterns associated with drinking. From there, you can develop ways to change them. CBT focuses on developing coping strategies and improving your problem-solving skills. You also work toward challenging the distorted beliefs that are underlying contributors to your addiction.
  • Motivational interviewing (MI): This counseling technique can help improve your motivation to change. You become more empowered through MI by finding reasons personal to you to pursue recovery. MI helps encourage self-motivation and a commitment to change.
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): This includes mindfulness concepts and some cognitive-behavioral techniques. It’s especially helpful if you struggle with emotional regulation, which is common in addiction. You learn to effectively manage intense emotions that might otherwise lead to relapse.
  • 12-step facilitation therapy: Based on the principles and concepts of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), you work through the 12 steps of recovery. There’s an emphasis on spirituality, accepting personal responsibility and community support.
  • Family therapy: Treatment plans may involve participation from family members. Family therapy focuses on improving family dynamics and communication so you have a more supportive recovery environment.
  • Holistic therapies: These complement traditional evidence-based therapies and address your overall wellness. Holistic therapies promote healing, help reduce stress, improve relaxation, and encourage a balanced, healthy lifestyle.

Alcohol Addiction Treatment Programs at New Jersey Behavioral Health

We offer a set of structured but individualized treatment programs. Our levels of care and programs include:

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

A PHP is an intensive, comprehensive level of care. You receive daily treatment, including a high level of support and therapy, but you can return home in the evenings.

A PHP with us is ideal if you need a high level of care but don’t necessarily require around-the-clock supervision.

You can establish healthy routines and focus on recovery in a PHP. You go through individual counseling and group therapy sessions and participate in other programming, like educational workshops.

A PHP can be a first step in your treatment plan or a transitional phase if you’re moving from inpatient care.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

The IOP at New Jersey Behavioral Health balances flexible treatment with intensive therapy.

You can keep maintaining daily responsibilities. An IOP is ideal if you need more support than traditional outpatient rehab but less than a PHP or you’ve already completed a higher care level.

The schedule can accommodate commitments at home or work, and you receive several hours of therapy weekly.

IOPs emphasize developing coping skills, life skills and relapse prevention strategies. There’s also a sense of peer support in an IOP with the inclusion of group therapy.

Outpatient Program

A standard outpatient program is well-suited if you’ve completed a higher level of treatment or have a milder form of alcohol addiction. This less intensive form of alcohol addiction treatment focuses on maintaining recovery and preventing relapse.

During outpatient rehab, you have access to regular therapy to support long-term recovery goals and help manage any ongoing issues.

Outpatient care is often more affordable and accessible, allowing you to continue your daily activities.

Get Alcohol Addiction Treatment in New Jersey

Our experienced team conducts thorough assessments to determine the appropriate level of care for each person.

Whether you or your loved one are starting with a PHP, IOP or outpatient care, we tailor treatment to particular needs and goals.

New Jersey Behavioral Health is committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate programs.

You don’t have to face alcohol addiction alone. Our team is here to support you every step of the way so you can build a healthy, sober life. Contact us today to learn more about our alcohol addiction treatment programs in New Jersey.

References:

  1. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the United States: Age Groups and Demographic Characteristics
  2. Psychiatry Online: Overview of Alcohol Use Disorder
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Alcohol Use and Your Health

Get Help Now

Contact Us
Call Us Now For Help (732) 751-4750 Speak With a Mental Health Professional Now
Go to top