Regardless of the motivations, the reasons, the causes – genetic, environmental, or otherwise – there will eventually come a time when the addict reaches a breaking point. That level is dependent upon the individual of course, as each alcoholic is different and should be treated that way.
Some alcoholics who have been drinking heavily for sustained periods of time are different than those who binge drink occasionally, as are those whose personality changes during the first drink. The variations are vast and again no two are one hundred percent alike.
For some, if they are a heavy continuous drinker, the body has become physically acquainted with alcohol and an abrupt stop could trigger a reaction causing severe damage to their system – possibly even death. It is advised these addicts are committed to an alcohol drug treatment program to undergo a medically managed detox.
First things first though. Once the addict has decided to seek some sort of help, the first step is to see a doctor and set a date to stop in the near future. Although some can stop drinking on their own, there are others, as noted above, who will need help during the process of withdrawal. A doctor can help the addict make that decision, medically managed or otherwise.
Once the addict has decided to quit, there are a number of benefits, many more than listed, that will follow:
- Reduction in family concerns and relationship problems.
- Ability to increase productivity at work, school, and home.
- Reduction of legal problems that have sometimes resulted in alcohol abuse.
- Reduction of physical health problems, such as liver damage.
Whether on their own or through an alcohol and drug treatment program, the most important part here is to get sober. None of the above will ever come to fruition if the recovering addict does not have a clear mind and body, both physically and spiritually. Cleaning up the wreckage of their past is vital to starting over with a clean slate.