Alcohol Abuse Treatment
and Recovery
Supportive, evidence-based care for alcohol use disorders
Book an Appointment Call UsWhat is Alcohol Abuse?
Alcohol abuse is a significant public health concern that impacts millions of people across the United States. Excessive alcohol consumption is linked to serious health consequences and contributes to approximately 1 in 10 adult deaths among working-age adults.
At Health & Psychiatry, Dr. Sajan and her experienced team provide compassionate, evidence-based medical treatment and therapeutic care to help you or your loved ones break free from the cycle of alcohol abuse and addiction.
Understanding
Alcohol Abuse vs. Addiction
Alcohol Abuse refers to the excessive or inappropriate use of alcohol. It is possible to drink excessively without being addicted, but abuse significantly increases the risk of developing addiction over time.
Alcohol Addiction (also called alcohol use disorder or alcoholism) occurs when a person:
Addiction occurs when a person loses control over their alcohol use, experiences intense cravings, and fails to recognize the negative impact on their relationships and daily life.
- Loses control over their alcohol use
- Experiences intense cravings
- Fails to recognize the negative impact on relationships and daily life
- Cannot stop drinking despite wanting to
How Addiction Develops
Classified as a chronic brain disease, addiction causes physical changes in the brain's neurons. These changes alter the brain's reward system, compelling individuals to seek alcohol despite harmful consequences.
Addiction is a progressive condition. Over time, tolerance builds, requiring greater amounts of alcohol to achieve the same effects, which further deepens dependency and makes it increasingly difficult to stop without professional help.
Book an Appointment Call UsRecognizing the Signs of Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol abuse often involves hiding drinking from family and friends, struggling to quit despite wanting to, and episodes of binge drinking. Understanding the warning signs can help you or a loved one seek treatment sooner.
Impaired Control
Experiencing strong cravings or an uncontrollable urge to drink, even when you intend to abstain.
Social and Occupational Problems
Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home due to alcohol use. Relationships may suffer as drinking takes priority.
Risky Use
Consuming alcohol in dangerous situations (such as before driving) or continuing to drink despite being aware of physical or psychological harm.
Physical Dependence
Developing increased tolerance (needing more alcohol to feel the same effects) and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, such as tremors, anxiety, nausea, or sweating.
If you or a loved one is showing signs of alcohol abuse, Health & Psychiatry is ready to provide comprehensive treatment and support. Early intervention can prevent the progression to severe addiction and reduce health risks.
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The Connection Between
Alcohol Abuse and Mental Health
Alcohol abuse and mental health conditions are deeply interconnected. Studies show that nearly half of individuals with mental illness will also develop a substance use disorder, including alcohol abuse, at some point in their lives. The reverse is also true: individuals with alcohol use disorders frequently experience co-occurring mental health conditions.
Why This Matters for Treatment
When alcohol abuse and mental health issues occur together, they can intensify each other, making both conditions more difficult to treat. This relationship creates a cycle:
- Worsening depression or anxiety
- Heightened stress and emotional instability
- Increased reliance on alcohol as a coping mechanism
- Progression from abuse to addiction
Individuals facing both challenges are also at increased risk of developing further substance dependencies.
Understanding this link is essential for effective treatment.
At Health & Psychiatry, we take a comprehensive approach that addresses both the emotional and physical aspects of alcohol use and mental health through integrated care.
Regain Control with Alcohol Abuse
Treatment at Health & Psychiatry
Treating alcohol abuse involves a combination of medically supervised detoxification, medication-assisted treatment, and evidence-based therapy. This integrated approach addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
Medically Supervised Detoxification
If your alcohol use is severe, treatment may begin with detoxification, a medically managed process in which your body safely eliminates alcohol. This phase requires careful monitoring because alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous and, in some cases, life-threatening.
During detox:
- Reduce cravings and prevent dangerous withdrawal symptoms
- Vital signs are monitored continuously
- Medical supervision ensures safety and comfort
- The process is tailored to your individual needs and withdrawal risk level
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Medication-assisted treatment is highly effective in supporting long-term recovery. MAT helps:
- Stabilize brain chemistry affected by chronic alcohol use
- Prevent relapse
- Manage co-occurring mental health symptoms
- Improve overall functioning and quality of life
Medications may include FDA-approved options such as naltrexone, acamprosate, or disulfiram, depending on your specific needs.
Evidence-Based Therapy
While medications address the physical aspects of addiction, therapy addresses the emotional, behavioral, and social factors that contribute to alcohol abuse. Therapeutic approaches may include:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Identifying and changing thought patterns that lead to drinking
- Motivational Enhancement Therapy – Strengthening personal motivation for change
- Family Therapy – Rebuilding relationships and creating a supportive home environment
- Group Therapy – Connecting with others in recovery for mutual support
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
You don't have to face alcohol abuse alone.
Whether you're struggling or concerned about a loved one, our alcohol abuse psychiatrists are here to provide the confidential, non-judgmental support you need.
Schedule your Consultation Call our OfficeWhy Choose Health & Psychiatry
Same day and late evening appointments
No referral required
Emergency visit availability
Wide range of insurance plans accepted
Convenient locations throughout Florida
Telepsychiatry:
Expert Care From Anywhere
Access expert personality disorder therapy from the comfort and privacy of your own home through secure, HIPAA-compliant video appointments.
You can meet with one of our licensed providers, including our experienced Alcohol Abuse psychiatrist, using your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Benefits of Telepsychiatry for Alcohol Abuse Treatment:
- Receive care from the comfort of your home
- Eliminate travel time and transportation barriers
- Flexible scheduling around work and family commitments
- Maintain continuity of care even when traveling
- Access to the same expert providers and personalized treatment
What to Bring
1. Driver's License
2. Insurance ID Card
3. Prescription Bottles
Your Insurance Likely Covers Your Care
We accept most major insurance plans. Let's verify your coverage before your first visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
However, abuse isn't just about quantity, it's also about the impact on your life.
If you find yourself drinking to cope with stress or emotions, experiencing negative consequences from drinking, or feeling unable to cut back despite wanting to, these are warning signs of alcohol abuse.
Even if you don't drink every day, binge drinking (consuming large amounts in a short period) is also considered abuse. Dr. Sajan and her team at Health & Psychiatry can help you understand your drinking patterns and develop healthier habits.
Social influences such as peer pressure or growing up around heavy drinking can also cause alcohol abuse. Sometimes, people turn to alcohol as a way to cope with emotional pain or difficult life situations. Understanding what’s driving your drinking is the first step toward getting the right help.
Surrounding yourself with supportive people and staying aware of the risks of alcohol can also make a big difference. If you ever feel like you are drinking to cope with emotions or pressure, it is important to seek help early.
Taking proactive steps now can protect your health and prevent long-term problems.
Dependence means your body has adapted to alcohol, leading to tolerance and withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop. You might feel like you need to drink just to function or feel "normal."
Recognizing the difference is important because both require different levels of support and treatment.
During detox, healthcare providers monitor vital signs, administer medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications, provide nutritional support and hydration, and ensure your safety and comfort throughout the process.
Alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous and even life-threatening in severe cases, which is why medical supervision is essential. Symptoms may include tremors, anxiety, nausea, sweating, rapid heart rate, and, in severe cases, seizures or delirium tremens.
Never attempt to detox from alcohol on your own if you've been drinking heavily. Always seek medical supervision.