Alcohol use and addiction are common in New Hampshire and the United States. Because alcohol is easy to get, legal, and a part of many people’s social lives, it can be easy to develop an alcohol addiction. For those struggling with unprocessed trauma or mental health conditions, social drinking can quickly turn into alcohol abuse and addiction. Just because alcohol is legal, it’s not any less dangerous than other addictive substances. Alcohol can have lasting effects on a person’s health. Alcohol addiction treatment is the best way to stop drinking and prevent health problems like alcohol dementia, organ failure, and death.
If you or someone in your life is struggling with alcohol addiction, there are alcohol addiction treatment programs in New Hampshire to help. A Better State provides trauma-informed dual diagnosis treatment for alcohol addiction and mental health. Reach us today at 781.412.1488 to learn about our programs, and let us answer your question about “What is alcohol dementia?”
Brain and Body Symptoms of Alcohol Dementia
Alcohol is a depressant. This means it slows down messages from the brain to the body. This can cause balance problems, slurred speech, and confusion. While many people may feel more energized and expressive when they drink when the alcohol wears off, it can make depression worse. Because alcohol is processed through the liver, drinking can cause liver damage and chemical changes in the brain.
Prolonged alcohol consumption can lead to alcohol dependence. This means the brain and body believe they need alcohol to survive. When someone reaches this stage of addiction, quitting cold turkey can be dangerous and deadly. Alcohol treatment programs are the safest way to prevent complications of prolonged drinking.
What Are the Signs of Alcohol Dementia?
Also called Alcohol-related dementia (ARD), prolonged alcohol abuse can lead to dementia over many years. Signs of alcohol dementia include:
- Cognitive difficulties
- Memory problems
- Shakey muscles
- Hallucinations
- Abnormal eye movement
- Inability to form new memories
- Double vision
Alcohol dementia is often caused by the way alcohol changes the brain and promotes nutrient deficiencies. Chronic drinking often leads to vitamin deficiencies and malnutrition. Studies show thymine, also known as vitamin B1, is often connected to alcohol addiction and alcohol-related dementia.
ARD is a progressive condition. It may begin with forgetfulness and worsen over time, especially if someone continues drinking and suffers from poor nutrition. Struggling to make plans, use language, or recognize objects can also be signs someone is suffering from alcohol dementia. ARD is a severe condition that requires medical treatment and can significantly shorten a person’s lifespan.
Prevent the Causes of Alcohol Dementia with Treatment
What is alcohol dementia? Alcohol dementia is caused by alcohol consumption and overall health. As the body processes alcohol, a person loses essential vitamins and minerals. Often, someone will struggle to maintain healthy nutrition and vitamin levels, putting them at risk for alcohol dementia. Unfortunately, alcohol dementia is not the only side effect of long-term alcohol abuse.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol, do not quit cold turkey. It is always safer to treat alcohol abuse with medical and psychological support. The team at A Better State is here to help you and your loved ones recover. Our trauma-informed treatment programs treat depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) alongside alcohol and drug addiction. A few of our evidence-based and alternative therapies include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Art therapy
- Yoga therapy
- Trauma therapy
- Mindfulness meditation therapy
Our holistic partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) and intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) provide flexible treatment for clients across New Hampshire. With daytime and evening programs, we’re ready to help you thrive.
Learn More About Alcohol Addiction Treatment at A Better State
If you are concerned about alcohol dementia, liver damage, or any other consequences of alcohol addiction, it may be time to seek treatment. At A Better State, our team of addiction specialists can create a personalized plan that addresses your unique needs and helps you achieve sobriety.
We offer various forms of therapy, including individual and group counseling, 12-step programs, and holistic methods such as yoga and meditation. Our beautiful facility provides the perfect environment for healing and recovery. If you are still wondering, “What is alcohol dementia?” Contact us now at 781.412.1488 to learn more about our addiction treatment programs.
