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If you or a loved one are struggling to stop using drugs or alcohol, our team of addiction experts can help you get sober a learn the skills for lifelong recovery.

Recognizing the Signs of Alcohol Dependence

a person sits in a chair near a window with their fingers arched as they wonder about alcohol dependence

Given the popularity of alcohol in the United States, it’s almost uncommon to find someone over 21 who avoids drinking. People’s relationship towards alcohol exists on a scale, with the aforementioned abstinent types on one end and a progressively increasing affinity for alcohol on the other. The difficulty many people who consume alcohol find themselves in is a subtle, almost gravitational pull to drink more.

Alcohol dependence is not the endpoint of the scale, but it does indicate that one’s relationship with alcohol has grown problematic. People dependent on alcohol begin to have trouble functioning without it or without intermittent amounts throughout the day. This can take many forms, all of which are highly disruptive to living their lives. At California Centers for Recovery, we understand the depths that alcohol dependence can lead people to. Our alcohol detox center in Los Angeles is outfitted with round-the-clock care, luxury living facilities, and the support you need to recover. Call us today at 877.328.5682, or reach out online.

Physical vs. Psychological Dependence

A person can become dependent in two ways: physically and psychologically. First, physical dependence is one of the body. Alcohol’s sedative effect is a result of chemicals in the brain being altered or redirected. This chemical, GABA, is a neurotransmitter regularly produced by the brain without alcohol’s intervention. When the body is subjected to consistent alcohol, it can alter GABA’s production and properties. Once accustomed to this new standard of alcohol, the brain will start to expect alcohol as a sort of supplement. Individuals attempting to quit drinking will start to experience withdrawal symptoms as a result, commonly including:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Sweating
  • Shaky hands
  • Vomiting
  • Insomnia
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Depression
  • Anxiety

Psychological dependence, which rarely exists without some amount of physical dependence to match, is an addiction of emotion. Many people with a substance use disorder use drugs as a coping mechanism, a means of escape, or some crutch for a problem in their lives. When that crutch is taken away, it can be psychologically disastrous to try to stand again. Many people are aware of the damage of continued alcohol consumption but feel that they have to compromise to ward off a potentially worse problem.

Getting Over Alcohol Dependence

Being dependent on alcohol can turn drinking into a default state. The body doesn’t function well without it, and long stretches without alcohol can take a huge mental toll. Many people who have been drinking for a long time have tried quitting, maybe after a particularly bad hangover or at the turn of a new year. The problem with the cold turkey approach is that it neglects the whiplash that occurs in the body and mind after failure to drink more.

What options are there left? Well, asking for help is always a place to start. In any internal battle, especially in cases of addiction, people are not always their own best judge of action. Having someone to hold you accountable during your recovery helps keep your trajectory in check.

Treat Alcohol Dependence at California Centers for Recovery

Help doesn’t just have to be from a friend, family member, or partner. It can be any combination of the three or combined with the aid of an alcohol detox center. At California Centers for Recovery, we offer the highest possible quality services to help you get back on your feet, as well as provide persistent service to each of your needs. You can break your addiction with the right tools. Let our team equip you with the skills and treatment needed to overcome withdrawal and beat alcohol dependence for good.

Reach out to our team in Los Angeles, California, today by calling 877.328.5682 or by filling out our online form.