Alcoholism is a deadly and dangerous disease, and those who suffer from it only begin to recover when they stop drinking.  But in many cases, the cessation of drinking is not enough because the alcohol itself is not the main culprit.  Often, alcohol abuse and drug addiction begin with imbalances in the brain that cause anxiety, insomnia, and feelings of discomfort that individuals seek to soothe through the use of alcohol and drugs. Unless these imbalances are addressed through healthier means, it is difficult for most addicts and alcoholics to maintain a sober lifestyle—even if they do stop drinking for some time. Many alcohol rehab centers have begun to incorporate alternative treatments for alcohol addiction and alcoholism into their programs because they provide positive impacts on the brain and decrease the likelihood of relapse. Here are four:  

1. Neurotherapy

Also known as neurofeedback or EEG biofeedback, neurotherapy uses digital technology to measure brain waves and present real-time information to the individual in order to enable conscious control of brain activity. Many alcohol addicts drink to self-medicate and calm the fast brain waves causing anxiety, insomnia, worry, self-consciousness, and other negative feelings. Some alcohol rehab centers include neurotherapy in their programs because it helps retrain the brain to be calm, focused, and relaxed without the use of alcohol. Research studies show that integrating neurofeedback therapy into alcohol treatment lowers rates of relapse.  

2. Mindfulness meditation

Negative emotions, stress, and cravings are among the top causes of addiction relapse. One reason for this is that addicts and alcoholics use drugs and alcohol to seek escape from uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. Mindfulness meditation involves the “non-judgmental awareness of the present moment,” which has proven useful in alcoholism treatment by providing a soothing relaxation response, increased awareness of triggers, and a diminished reactivity to stress—all of which decrease the likelihood of relapse.  

3. Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles into specific points on the body, particularly on the ear. By stimulating these points, acupuncture helps to regulate stress, fear and anxiety; balance brain activity and hormone levels; and repair cells and eliminate toxins. In the treatment of alcohol addiction, it is believed that acupuncture helps to reduce cravings, diminish withdrawal symptoms, and improve mood.

4. NAD therapy

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) therapy is an intravenous biological medicine treatment that provides a high dose of a metabolic coenzyme over the course of several days. NAD therapy rapidly repairs cells and addresses the chemical damage in the brain caused by alcohol abuse.  It helps to restore healthy brain function, ease alcohol withdrawal symptoms, and reduce cravings. Harvard Medicine calls NAD therapy “the crown jewel of detox, rapid cleanse and restoration therapies.”

Freedom from alcohol addiction & alcoholism is with clinical trials

Alcoholism and alcohol addiction wreak havoc on the body, the spirit, and relationships with others. If you or someone you know suffers from alcoholism, help is available—and freedom is possible. Alcohol support groups, alcohol treatment studies, and alcohol rehab programs all aim to help people get sober and live healthy lives. Reach out for help today. Give us a call at (858) 784-7867.