When dealing with alcohol addiction, a common question is whether alcoholics can ever drink in moderation. You might have asked this question regarding a loved one or even yourself. Many individuals, especially those who are aware of their addictive behaviors, struggle with abstaining from alcohol. This article aims to consider whether alcoholics can moderate their drinking and the unexpected risks for those who attempt to do so.
Is it possible for alcoholics to control their drinking?
When someone is dependent on alcohol, stopping altogether seems out of reach. This is why they consider the idea of maintaining a controlled or moderate habit of drinking. Many wonder if they can stop drinking heavily and return to a healthier relationship with alcohol. However, it is crucial to know that when someone has entered into alcohol addiction, it alters their brain, making it difficult to moderate drinking. Some might be able to manage a reduction of drinking behavior for a time. However, studies show that the majority of alcoholics who attempt moderation revert to problematic and destructive drinking patterns.
What is controlled drinking for alcoholics?
Controlled drinking is the idea that a person can limit the amount of alcohol they consume without losing control. Sometimes this looks like sticking to a set number of drinks per week or day. But for alcoholics, this is extremely challenging. Because of the effects of alcohol on the brain, reinforcing addictive behaviors, it makes it hard to maintain a healthy grasp of their intake. What an alcoholic might think is a reasonable amount to drink a day; someone else might consider it too much. Moderate alcohol consumption may seem like a way to maintain a social life or enjoy certain health benefits for the alcohol addict. But the reality is that the risk of relapse is very high.
How can alcoholics manage to drink moderately?
Treatment programs promoting moderation management exist. In these programs, individuals try to reduce their drinking problems without completely giving up alcohol. These programs must be coupled with a strong support system, careful monitoring of drinking habits, and a commitment to making significant lifestyle changes.
This kind of program may sound appealing, but the reality is that most alcoholics struggle with this approach. The reason is because this does not address the root cause of their relationship with alcohol. Rather the user’s attempt to control their drinking often leads to cyclical relapsing. Because alcoholics are typically alcohol dependent and have difficulty recognizing they have had enough to drink, and moderation only leads to excessive drinking, this method is ultimately hurtful.
What are the risks of alcoholics trying to drink in moderation?
The risks for alcoholics trying to drink in moderation are high. It is easy for an alcoholic to slip up into more problematic alcoholic episodes. The long-term effects of attempting moderate drinking can include increased tolerance, leading to higher consumption over time, and a sense of failure if control is lost.
For alcoholics, the line between moderate drinking and delving into their alcohol addiction is very thin. Individuals who try to moderate their drinking typically find themselves back in a cycle of dependence. This makes it exponentially more difficult for people to regain control.
How does moderation management work for alcoholics?
Moderation management programs seek to help individuals reduce their intake instead of quitting entirely. To do this, the program sets limits on the amount of alcohol consumed, tracks drinks per week, and creates strategies to avoid binge drinking. Therapy to address the underlying causes of alcohol addiction is offered as well. Nevertheless, it is still helpful to understand that success rates are generally lower for alcoholics who attempt moderation compared to those who choose complete abstinence.
Can alcoholics return to social drinking?
Unfortunately, most alcoholics will be advised not to return to social drinking. Because of their addiction, the compulsion to drink is often too strong, and many find they cannot drink without slipping back into their unhealthy habits; when the pressure to drink is high–like in social settings–the risk of relapse must be taken seriously.
What are the long-term effects of alcoholics drinking in moderation?
Even if an alcoholic manages to maintain moderate alcohol consumption for a time, the long-term effects are often negative. Even small amounts of alcohol can lead to cravings and a desire for more. Over time, since the body builds a tolerance, it makes it harder to control one’s drinking behavior.
Even in the short term, and especially for long-term users of alcohol, there can be numerous negative effects. The effects of alcohol on the brain can lead to increased anxiety and depression. The safest path forward for alcoholics is to avoid alcohol altogether. This is often the only way to prevent relapse and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Is abstinence the only option for alcoholics?
Not necessarily. While some alcoholics may have success with moderation, most need to abstain from alcohol. This is the safest and most viable option if the alcoholic is seeking success and overall betterment. Complete abstinence eliminates the risk of relapse. It also allows individuals to rebuild their lives without worrying they will fall back into old patterns.
Treatment for Alcoholism at Fifth Avenue Psychiatry
At Fifth Ave Psychiatry, we specialize in alcohol treatments that focus on outpatient care services for those seeking to defeat this struggle. We understand that everyone is in a different situation. We want to help you or anyone you know who is experiencing addiction.
Reach out to us today to begin your recovery journey.
Inquire at (212) 734-0506.
