Alcoholism ruins relationships, shatters dreams, wastes talent and leaves Chicago residents physically and psychologically enslaved. If left untreated it will completely destroy a person’s quality of life long before it actually kills him.
Psychological Effects of Alcoholism in Chicago
Alcoholism, also called alcohol dependency disorder, physically changes the brain. The high brought on by intoxication directly impacts the pleasure, or reward center of the brain, the same area designed to reinforce behaviors, control impulses, and manage stress, anxiety and memories. The temporary relief that intoxication brings is enough for the brain to crave it desperately. Every psychological tool available will be called upon in order to keep the supply of alcohol flowing. Many Chicago alcoholics report the following problems:
- Denial of any problem
- Self-delusion about the ability to manage alcohol use
- Justification for continued abuse
- Severe anxiety about quitting
- Depression
Because these symptoms can seem unrelated to a specific act, they function in the background of the brain, often directing behavior much more powerfully than rational thought.
Physical Effects of Alcoholism in Chicago
Alcohol addiction also has serious physical effects. Neural pathways in the brain become chemically re-wired around the disease, changing the way the brain functions and makes decisions. Excessive alcohol consumption causes spikes in the release of dopamine in the brain. In time the brain will stop producing its own natural supply of “feel good” chemicals, relying on alcohol to feel normal. Once this physical addiction has been established Chicago addicts will experience severe physical symptoms of withdrawal if and when they quit drinking. Some of these symptoms of physical addiction include the following:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever and chills
- Flu-like symptoms
- Muscle and joint pain
- Skin crawls
- Intense mental anxiety
In most cases the symptoms of withdrawal last from several days to about a week. Once the Chicago addict’s brain reestablishes its natural chemical balance the symptoms will subside. The psychological effects, however, last much longer and can be much more challenging to overcome.
How to Overcome Alcoholism
Many alcoholics have successfully endured the misery of withdrawal only to succumb to the psychological hooks of the disease. After one or more failed attempts to stay clean, many Chicago addicts give up trying. The truth is that lasting recovery almost always requires specialized, professional treatment. Modern addiction experts have developed a wide array of therapies that offer real hope to even the most advanced alcoholics. The most effective treatment programs offer the following tools:
- Group and individual counseling
- Dual Diagnosis treatment of co-occurring psychological disorders
- 12-step programs
- Spiritual care
- Introduction to healthy new coping skills and relaxation techniques
- Education about the effects of addiction and recovery
- Opportunities to heal through serving others
Chicago Residents Can End the Effects of Alcoholism
If you live in Chicago are looking for help ending the effects of alcoholism, we are here for you. Our toll-free helpline is open 24 hours a day and our alcoholism experts are ready to answer any questions you may have. We can help you find the best treatment program for your unique needs and can even confirm insurance coverage. Don’t let another day go by before you start the process of getting free from alcoholism. Call today.
