The Advantages Of CBT Against Alcohol Dependence

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be a highly effective treatment for alcohol dependence, with its ability to help patients identify triggers, alter thought patterns, develop coping skills, and establish strategies to prevent a relapse. For those unfamiliar, CBT is a form of psychotherapy that has proven effective in treating alcohol and drug abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and severe mental issues. If you or someone you know is grappling with addiction, it could be worth learning more about CBT and alcohol dependence.

Research shows CBT can be highly effective in reducing and treating addiction. The goal-oriented and structured aspect of the therapy means the process is generally short-term, ranging from 12 to 16 therapy sessions. However, its effects can be long-lasting. CBT has many advantages that help fight against substance abuse. Meanwhile, WhiteSands Treatment’s facilities across Florida offer a range of therapy programs to help anyone seeking treatment.

Can CBT Be Used For Alcohol?

There are multiple ways CBT can be used to treat someone suffering from alcohol addiction. A professional therapist has several approaches to choose from in their approach.

1. Assessment and Goal Setting: CBT generally begins with assessing the patient’s drinking patterns, triggers, and personal goals. From there, a therapist will work with the patient to set specific and achievable goals that aid in reducing or abstaining from alcohol use. 
2. Identifying Triggers: This process helps past users identify the precise thoughts, emotions, and situations that trigger the urge to drink. Recognizing these provocations is a crucial step in developing effective coping mechanisms. 
3. Cognitive Restructuring: Patients will learn to identify and challenge negative thought patterns related to alcohol use. Unraveling past rationalizations for drinking or negative conceptions about sobriety can promote a healthier mindset going forward. 
4. Skill Building and Developing Coping Strategies: A critical aspect of CBT is teaching patients practical skills for managing cravings and high-risk situations. Techniques that promote relaxation, problem-solving, and self-care are an excellent way to build a patient’s resilience. 
5. Behavioral Interventions: Therapists may engage the client in behavioral experiments to test the most effective actions against triggers and cravings. This could involve exposure therapy such as practicing saying no to drinks during social gatherings or role-playing typically challenging situations. 
6. Relapse Prevention: CBT involves taking a realistic approach to treatment and considering the risk of a relapse. Clients are taught to identify warning signs and will work with their therapist to develop a contingency plan to deal with them. 
7. Motivational Techniques: Motivation is crucial in overcoming any addiction. CBT can help patients explore their reasons for wanting to quit alcohol, strengthening their commitment to recovery. 
8. Building Support Systems: CBT helps patients recognize and seek support systems. These can take many forms, from friends to family or local support groups. A solid support system can massively increase the chances of avoiding alcohol for good.  
9. Celebrating Progress: Addressing new milestones and celebrating successes helps clients maintain accountability and motivation. 

 

Research has shown CBT can be effective in treating dependence on alcohol and a range of other substances, both on its own and alongside other treatment strategies. WhiteSands treatment can help you, or someone you love, get started with CBT if you recognize the characteristics of alcohol dependence.

 

What Is the Success Rate of CBT for Addiction?

According to Verywell Mind, about 60% of people treated with CBT for substance addiction maintain sobriety for at least a year. The rates can also increase significantly based on the specific dependency. 

A study published on PubMed Central used CBT to treat people grappling with internet addiction. The strategy saw more than 95% of patients successfully manage symptoms by the end of twelve weeks, and 78% maintained their recovery for at least six months after treatment. 

CBT’s tailored and methodical approach allows clients to look inwardly and dig deep into the root of their addiction. The process values education above all else, enabling patients with the tools they need to face future temptations. 

 

Can a Person Change Their Drinking Habits?

Breaking a habit isn’t always easy, but it’s always possible. Changing a person’s drinking habits is no different. The process often involves self-reflection, setting clear goals, and developing strategies to manage triggers. 

Here are some steps that can help a person overcome any habit, especially one related to alcohol misuse. 

• Avoid Tempting Situations: The beginning is always the hardest and most crucial time to avoid temptation. This will require looking inwardly and recognizing patterns to understand your triggers. For instance, if you usually drink while watching movies, it might be best to engage in more active hobbies like sports, at least temporarily. 
• Replace Unhealthy Behaviors with Healthy Ones: One of the best ways to kick any habit is to replace it with a healthier one. So, if you want to stop biting your nails but need to keep your hands busy, try out one of the many fun fidget toys available. As for kicking alcohol, you could try drinking a sugar-free soda in its place during tempting situations, at least temporarily. 
• Mentally Prepare: If you can’t avoid a triggering situation, mentally prepare beforehand. Create an action plan and practice ways to combat any unwanted impulses. 
• Seek Support: Asking friends, family, and even co-workers to support your efforts can hold you accountable and put extra safeguards in place. 
• Celebrate Small Milestones: Treat yourself when you hit new milestones. This practice can increase motivation and help you maintain sobriety. 

 

CBT is a worthwhile tool that can guide people through this process. WhiteSands Treatment can help you find the right therapist for your needs, ready to educate you on CBT and alcohol dependence and set you up for success. 

 

 

What Are the Stages of the Drinking Pattern?

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism frames a drinking pattern in three stages: 

1. Binge/Intoxication Stage: This stage offers the user incentives to keep drinking and form pathological habits. 

• During this phase, people experience euphoria from alcohol and reduced anxiety. 
• Repeated use of this reward system will strengthen a person’s dependence on alcohol. 

1. Negative Affect/Withdrawal Stage: Reward deficits and increased anxiety ensue. 

• Stopping alcohol will result in withdrawal symptoms such as agitation and emotional pain. 
• These feelings encourage the user to no longer drink for the pleasurable effects but to avoid a low.   

1. Preoccupation/Anticipation Stage: Cravings and fixation begin. 

• The person becomes obsessive about finding alcohol.
• The prefrontal cortex of the brain, which is responsible for managing tasks, becomes compromised as the person prioritizes alcohol above most other things.

Understanding the stages can be the first step in spotting the early signs of alcohol abuse. 

 

How to Help Someone Research CBT and Alcohol Dependence

Alcohol addiction can be incredibly challenging for the user and their loved ones. As a result, it’s often best to enlist the professionals. A treatment network like WhiteSands Treatment can guide patients through the entire process, offering a medical detox, rehab facilities, and a range of tailored therapies. Our network of treatment centers offers cognitive-behavioral therapy in Florida, and we’re ready to educate you on CBT and alcohol dependence. We have three inpatient locations and 16 outpatient facilities in the region. In addition to CBT, WhiteSands Treatment provides family therapy, dual diagnosis treatment, and sober living. Call us at 877-855-3470 to start your new journey today. 

 

External Sources 

• Verywell Mind — Can CBT Treat Alcoholism and Drug Addiction?
• PubMed Central — Treatment Outcomes Using CBT-IA
• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism — Alcohol’s Effects on Health

 

If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.