Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
Regarding age, race, gender, region, or socioeconomic status, alcoholism (alcohol use disorder, or AUD) is an illness that affects everyone equally. Anyone is susceptible to the disease. The lives of those around someone with an alcohol use disorder are negatively impacted. Furthermore, alcohol abuse plays a role in around 88,000 fatalities in the United States annually. Alcohol use disorder is a persistent, chronic, and potentially lethal illness that often co-occurs with other mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and bipolar disorder. But is alcohol use disorder itself a mental disorder? This is a nuanced issue, and the answer will vary depending on whom you ask. It would be a mistake to limit our knowledge of alcohol use disorder to its physical manifestations; after all, the condition has far-reaching effects on a person’s mental and behavioral health.
To acquire the aid, you or a loved one needs to overcome alcoholism, it is essential to have a good understanding of the disease. Houston, Texas County, is home to Mallard Lake Detox Center, where we provide comprehensive alcohol and drug rehab programs. Read on to learn more about the mental health disorders that often accompany alcohol addiction.
Is Alcohol Use Disorder a Mental Illness?
Alcohol use disorder is a mental condition; nevertheless, there is more nuance to the response than just “yes” or “no.” Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is recognized as a medical illness in the DSM-5, the most recent version of the APA’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Before the most recent edition, the APA classified drinking problems as two separate disorders: alcohol abuse and alcohol addiction. The most recent revision rolled both terms into a single category called “alcohol use disorder”.
Warning Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder
Alcohol use disorder is considered a mental illness because of the severe alterations in brain chemistry that occur after heavy and chronic alcohol use without medical intervention. When one drinks alcohol, the brain produces endorphins, a neurotransmitter for positive feelings and behaviors prompted by rewards. In the long run, the brain continually anticipates those pleasant sensations, responding severely and leading to withdrawal whenever the brain is denied. This is why chronic heavy alcohol consumption can permanently change brain chemistry. So, we witness a friend or loved one who seems to be behaving like an “irresponsible jerk” or making other questionable decisions but they are simply responding to alcohol’s neurobiological impacts. Breaking the pattern can be challenging for those who have already been dependent. As a result, you or a loved one need all-encompassing care.
Get The Best Help with Your Alcohol Addiction and Dependence in Houston, Texas
Your health insurance coverage can cover alcohol rehab expenses since it is mandated by law to cover treatment for addictions and mental illnesses. Most major insurance companies recognize Mallard Lake Detox Center as a top addiction treatment center, and we’ll gladly assist you in learning what services are covered by your policy. We also provide convenient payment plans for those with outstanding out-of-pocket medical expenses after insurance coverage.
Don’t put off obtaining help for alcoholism if you or somebody you care about needs it. We appreciate hearing from new customers like yourself, and Mallard Lake opens its doors daily.
