Alcohol Addiction Psychiatrist in Creve Coeur, Independence and Columbia, MO

Common signs of alcoholism include:

• Poor coordination
• Slurred speech
• Impaired thinking
• Memory impairment
• Desire to stop drinking, yet use continues
• Diverting energy in order to drink
• Being secretive about the extent of alcohol abuse
• Engaging in risky behavior, including drunk driving
• Being in denial about alcohol abuse
• Becoming distressed without access to alcohol

Withdrawal symptoms of alcohol abuse, which may begin as soon as two hours after the last drink and can last for weeks, will emerge when a person stops drinking or significantly reduces the amount of intake. Symptoms can include:

• Shaking
• Anxiety
• The desire for a drink
• Delirium tremens (DTs) a severe symptom, includes:
• Confusion
• Fever
• Rapid heartbeat

As some withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening, detoxification from alcohol should be monitored by a medical professional specializing in addiction treatment.

Alcohol use disorder, commonly abbreviated as AUD, is a medical condition that involves excessive alcohol consumption that causes distress or harm to the individual or others close to them. The condition can range from mild to severe and the diagnosis is based on confirmation of two or more of the following questions, applicable to the past year:

• Drinking more or longer than intended
• Any attempt to stop drinking was unsuccessful
• Spending lots of time drinking or recovering
• Experiencing a strong urge to drink
• Drinking causes problems in personal & professional life
• Continuing drinking even though it causes problems
• Forgoing activities that were previously enjoyable
• Experiencing a higher risk of self-harm (drinking and driving, swimming under the influence, operating heavy machinery, engaging in risky sexual behaviors, wandering into dangerous areas)
• Continuing drinking despite its negative health effects
• Experiencing blackouts
• Experiencing tolerance (needing to drink more alcohol to experience the same level of intoxication)
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms, such as:
• Trouble sleeping
• Shakiness
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Restlessness
• Nausea
• Sweating

Yes, Success Health System treats alcohol use disorder (AUD); we implement several different treatments and therapies to help our patients overcome AUD. Our approach includes personalized counseling, therapy, and support groups tailored to each patient’s needs. We also provide medical management, including medications that may help reduce cravings and prevent relapse. Our goal is to help individuals regain control over their lives, improve their relationships, and support their long-term recovery through a comprehensive, compassionate approach to treatment.

If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol use disorder, come to Success Health System for professional help. The addiction specialists at Success Health System are experienced in treating alcohol use disorder and can help you live a substance-free life. Contact us today for more information or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Creve Coeur MO, Independence MO, and Columbia MO. We serve patients from Creve Coeur MO, Independence MO, Columbia MO, Overland MO, Bridgeton MO, Blue Springs MO, Kansas City MO, Midway MO, and surrounding areas.