What is the First Step Toward Getting Treatment for Alcohol Addiction?

The first step toward getting treatment for alcohol addiction is recognizing that there is a problem. This moment of awareness, whether sparked by health issues, strained relationships, or personal reflection, marks the beginning of the recovery journey. Without this recognition, seeking meaningful treatment or support becomes unlikely, making it a vital foundation for change. An estimated 413,000 people in South Carolina (about 9.4% of the population) have alcohol use disorder according to The South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services.

Signs that someone needs help for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) include drinking more or longer than intended, failed attempts to cut back, withdrawal symptoms, neglecting responsibilities, and continued use despite negative consequences. These indicators signal that professional support is likely needed.

After deciding to seek treatment, the next step is to connect with a healthcare provider or addiction specialist. They guide individuals through options such as detox, therapy, and support groups. From that point forward, recovery becomes a structured path, one that begins with a single, honest decision to seek change.

What Is the First Step to Getting Alcohol Addiction Treatment?

The first step to getting alcohol addiction treatment is acknowledging that there is a problem. This means recognizing how alcohol use is negatively affecting your health, relationships, responsibilities, or emotional well-being. 

There are approximately 2,586 alcohol-related deaths per year in South Carolina, with a death rate of 13.9 per 100,000, higher than the national average according to the National Center for Drug Use Statistics. Without this awareness, it is difficult to take meaningful action toward recovery. Once a person accepts the need for help, they become open to seeking support, exploring treatment options, and beginning the path toward lasting change.

How to Acknowledge there is a Problem with Alcohol?

To acknowledge the need for alcohol addiction treatment involves honest self-reflection and a willingness to confront the impact alcohol has on your life.

Recognizing the problem includes:

• Noticing patterns: Recognizing when drinking becomes routine, excessive, or hard to control.
  
• Listening to feedback: Taking seriously the concerns expressed by loved ones or coworkers.
  
• Evaluating consequences: Reflecting on any negative outcomes—such as health issues, missed work, legal trouble, or damaged relationships.
  
• Identifying emotional triggers: Being aware of using alcohol to cope with stress, anxiety, or sadness.
  
• Comparing behavior to intentions: Realizing that promises to “cut back” are repeatedly broken.

How Does Denial Prevent Recovery from Alcoholism?

Denial prevents recovery from alcoholism by distorting a person’s perception of their drinking and its consequences. Psychologically, denial serves as a defense mechanism, allowing individuals to avoid guilt, shame, or the fear of change. This self-deception fuels cognitive dissonance, where someone’s behavior (excessive drinking) conflicts with their belief that they are in control. DAODAS estimates that approximately 451,000 individuals in South Carolina are impacted by substance-related problems requiring immediate intervention and treatment, but the number receiving services is much lower, highlighting a significant treatment gap.

As a result, treatment is delayed because the person does not acknowledge the severity of the problem. According to data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 95% of people with alcohol use disorder (AUD) do not believe they need treatment, illustrating how deeply denial obstructs the recovery process.

What Are the Signs That You Need Help for Alcohol Addiction?

The signs that you need help for alcohol addiction include drinking more than intended, unsuccessful attempts to cut down, cravings, neglecting responsibilities, relationship problems and withdrawal symptoms. According to the DSM-5, Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is defined by a pattern of alcohol use that leads to significant impairment or distress. If you’re unsure whether your drinking qualifies as problematic, watch for these key signs:

• Drinking more or for longer than intended
  
• Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop
  
• Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from drinking
  
• Craving alcohol or feeling a strong urge to drink
  
• Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school
  
• Continuing to drink despite it causing problems in relationships
  
• Giving up activities you once enjoyed because of drinking
  
• Using alcohol in risky situations (e.g., driving)
  
• Needing more alcohol to get the same effect (tolerance)
  
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like shaking, nausea, or anxiety when not drinking

South Carolina averages one death from excessive alcohol use for every 1,979 adults aged 18 and older, equating to 6.44 deaths per 10,000 adults according to “Alcohol Abuse Statistics” by NCDAS. Approximately 70.8% of these deaths are among males, and 82.7% occur in adults aged 35 years and older.

What Questions Should You Ask Yourself About Your Drinking Habits?

The questions you should ask yourself about your drinking habits include reasons why you drink. Self-assessment is a powerful first step toward acknowledging a problem with alcohol. Asking yourself honest questions reveals whether your drinking habits are affecting your well-being. If you’re unsure, consider taking a formal alcohol addiction test like the AUDIT or CAGE questionnaire. Ask yourself:

• Do I drink to cope with stress, sadness, or anxiety?
  
• Have I tried to cut down or stop drinking but couldn’t?
  
• Do I hide or lie about how much I drink?
  
• Has alcohol ever caused problems with family, friends, or work?
  
• Do I need more alcohol than I used to feel its effects?
  
• Have I ever blacked out or forgotten things while drinking?
  
• Do I feel guilty or regretful after drinking?

Answering “yes” to multiple questions suggests it is time to seek help.

Who Can Help You Take the First Step in Alcohol Addiction Treatment?

The people who help you take the first step in alcohol addiction treatment include supportive family members, close friends, healthcare professionals, and trained addiction counselors. These individuals guide you in recognizing the problem, exploring treatment options, and beginning the recovery process with confidence.

The people who help with taking the first step:

• Family members: Offer emotional support, voice concerns, and assist with finding treatment options.
  
• Friends: Provide honest feedback and encouragement while reinforcing accountability.
  
• Primary care providers: Evaluate your health, screen for alcohol use disorder (AUD), and connect you with treatment resources.
  
• Addiction counselors: Assess your situation and create a structured, individualized treatment plan.
  
• Peer support groups: Offer connection, structure, and encouragement through shared experiences.
  
• Mental health professionals: Address underlying mental health concerns that contribute to alcohol use.

How To Choose the Right Alcohol Addiction Treatment Program?

To choose the right alcohol addiction treatment program, assess the severity of the addiction, personal health needs, support systems, and daily responsibilities. Selecting the most effective alcohol addiction treatment program depends on understanding available options and what environment offers the best chance for sustained recovery.

Common alcohol addiction treatment options:

• Inpatient rehab: Full-time residential care with medical supervision and structured therapy. Typically recommended for moderate to severe AUD.
  
• Outpatient programs: Flexible treatment schedules that allow individuals to maintain work or family commitments. Best suited for mild to moderate AUD with a strong support system.
  
• Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP): Daytime treatment offering intensive therapy without overnight stays.
  
• Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP): Fewer hours than PHP but more structure than traditional outpatient care.
  
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Combines medications like naltrexone with counseling to reduce cravings and prevent relapse.
  
• Therapy-based programs: Focus on behavioral therapies such as CBT or Motivational Interviewing to address root causes of addiction.

How long does it typically take to move from recognizing a drinking problem to starting treatment?

The time between acknowledging a drinking problem and initiating treatment varies widely among individuals. Factors such as personal readiness, support systems, and access to resources play significant roles. While some seek help promptly after recognition, others delay due to denial or fear. It’s crucial to understand that early intervention leads to better outcomes. If you or someone you know is contemplating treatment, reaching out to professionals or support groups will expedite the process and provide necessary guidance.​

Is a professional intervention necessary to begin alcohol addiction treatment?

No, a professional intervention is not required but it is instrumental in motivating someone to seek help. An intervention involves a structured conversation, facilitated by a trained specialist, where loved ones express concerns and encourage the individual to pursue treatment. This approach is particularly effective when the person is in denial about their addiction. However, some individuals recognize their need for help without an intervention and take the initiative to seek treatment independently. The key is to ensure that support and resources are available when the individual is ready to take that step.​

What self-assessment tools can help determine if I have a drinking problem?

The self-assessment tools that can help determine if you have a drinking problem include the CAGE Questionnaire, AUDIT and the AUDIT-C. These self-assessment tools are detailed below:

• CAGE Questionnaire: A brief, four-question tool focusing on key indicators of alcohol misuse.​CAGE questionnaire correctly identifies 85% of people with alcohol problems (sensitivity) and correctly rules out 89% of people without alcohol problems (specificity), making it a reliable and efficient screening tool for alcohol misuse according to “Screening for alcohol abuse using the CAGE questionnaire” published by the American Journal of Medicine.
  
• AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test): A comprehensive 10-question assessment developed by the World Health Organization to identify hazardous drinking.​
  
• AUDIT-C: A shorter version of the AUDIT, concentrating on alcohol consumption frequency and quantity.​

These tools are designed to prompt reflection on drinking habits and indicate whether professional evaluation is warranted. If your responses suggest potential issues, consulting a healthcare provider is advisable.​

How does self-reflection contribute to initiating recovery from alcohol addiction?

Self-reflection contributes to initiating recovery from alcohol addiction l component because it examines one’s behaviors, motivations, and the consequences of drinking, individuals gain insight into the underlying causes of their addiction. This introspection fosters self-awareness, helping to identify triggers and patterns that perpetuate substance use. Engaging in practices like journaling, meditation, or therapy enhances this process, laying the foundation for meaningful change and commitment to recovery.​

What emotional barriers might prevent someone from seeking alcohol addiction treatment?

The emotional barriers that prevent someone from seeking alcohol addiction treatment include shame, guilt, fear and denial. Several emotional factors hinder individuals from pursuing treatment:​

• Shame and Guilt: Feelings of embarrassment or remorse about one’s drinking behavior deter seeking help.​
  
• Fear of Judgment: Concern about being labeled or stigmatized prevents open discussions about addiction.​
  
• Denial: An inability or unwillingness to acknowledge the severity of the problem and delay treatment.​
  
• Hopelessness: Believing that change is unattainable diminishes motivation to seek assistance.

Among young adults aged 18–25 in South Carolina, the annual average prevalence of past-year AUD was 11.5% (about 59,000 people) during 2014–2017, which is higher than the regional average (9.2%) and similar to the national average (11.0%) according to the “Behavioral Health Barometer” published by SAMHSA.