For alcoholics with otherwise good health, proper treatment, social support and motivation, the likelihood of recovery is good.
But the cold, hard fact is that treating alcoholism can begin only when the person admits his or her alcohol problem exists, agrees to stop drinking and gets help.
Here are some guidelines for action:
- If you suspect that a partner or loved one is an alcoholic, talk to your physician or contact a reputable alcohol treatment program for advice on how to deal with him or her.
- If you consistently drink too much, acknowledge the problem and, if possible, resolve to stop drinking on your own.
- Join a self-help group. The best known is Alcoholics Anonymous.
- Explore alternative programs like Rational Recovery or Women for Sobriety.
- Look into Al-Anon Family Groups, a support program for the parents, children and spouses of alcoholics.
- Start exercising regularly — it releases chemicals in the brain that produce a sense of well-being.
