Alcohol addiction, also called alcoholism, is a chronic medical condition characterized by an inability to control alcohol consumption despite its negative consequences. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), alcohol use disorder (AUD) can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe depending on the number of symptoms present. People with alcohol use disorder may experience strong urges or cravings for alcohol, develop a physical dependence, and show withdrawal symptoms when they attempt to stop drinking.
Understanding alcohol and how it affects brain function is critical. Consuming alcohol, especially in large quantities, alters mood, impairs judgment, and interferes with coordination. Chronic alcohol misuse leads to alcohol dependence, where the body adapts to the presence of alcohol and requires it to function normally.
Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction
Recognizing alcohol-related problems early can help prevent long-term health consequences. Common signs of alcohol addiction include:
- Drinking alcohol in larger amounts or over a longer period than intended
- Unsuccessful attempts to reduce alcohol consumption or stop drinking
- Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from alcohol
- Craving alcohol intensely
- Continued alcohol use despite negative feelings or personal difficulties
- Giving up activities once enjoyed due to drinking behavior
Alcohol misuse often includes binge drinking, defined as consuming five or more drinks for men or four or more drinks for women in about two hours. Excessive drinking and heavy drinking are associated with an increased risk of mental health problems, liver disease, high blood pressure, and even breast cancer.
Health Risks and Consequences of Alcohol Use
Excessive alcohol use has serious health consequences. High blood alcohol levels can lead to alcohol overdose, which may result in coma or death. Chronic alcohol use increases the likelihood of liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and cognitive impairment. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and the Centers for Disease Control, alcohol-related deaths remain a leading cause of preventable mortality in the United States.
Other risks include:
- Increased risk of injuries from accidents
- Alcohol-related violence
- Birth defects in pregnant individuals who drink excessively
- The development of co-occurring mental health conditions
Environmental factors, family history, and early age of first use are major risk factors for developing a substance use disorder involving alcohol.
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms and Detoxification
When someone with alcohol dependence stops drinking, they may experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms, ranging from moderate to severe. These include:
- Anxiety, sweating, and nausea
- Shaking or tremors
- Insomnia or nightmares
- Hallucinations or seizures in severe cases
Medical supervision is often required during alcohol detoxification to manage symptoms safely. Treatment may involve medications to decrease cravings and prevent complications.
Treating Alcohol Addiction at Halo Mental Health in Las Vegas
Halo Mental Health offers comprehensive treatment options for people struggling with alcohol addiction. Our approach integrates medical, psychological, and behavioral treatment methods to address both alcohol use and underlying mental health conditions.
Our services include:
- Individualized treatment planning
- Alcohol detoxification support with medical monitoring
- Evidence-based behavioral treatment such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Group and family therapy sessions
- Medication management to reduce cravings and prevent relapse
Outpatient Programs and Long-Term Recovery
Halo's outpatient treatment programs provide flexible, structured support for individuals transitioning out of detox or inpatient care. These programs are ideal for those who want to maintain work or family responsibilities while receiving professional help.
Our programs help clients:
- Control alcohol cravings
- Avoid further drinking and risky situations
- Address co-occurring mental disorders
- Strengthen coping strategies and resilience
Additional Factors in Alcohol Use and Recovery
Several key factors influence how alcohol affects each individual. Risk factors such as a family history of substance abuse, environmental stressors, and early initiation of alcohol use contribute to the likelihood of developing a disorder. Alcohol consumed regularly—especially eight or more drinks in a day—can result in alcohol-related problems including physical dependence and moderate withdrawal symptoms when stopping. Even moderate alcohol intake can escalate into chronic use over time.
While moderate drinking—defined as up to one drink per day for women and two for men—may be considered low-risk by some health agencies, the potential for escalation should not be overlooked. Alcoholic beverages impact brain chemistry, decision-making, and emotional regulation. It is essential to evaluate drinking behavior regularly and seek help when signs of disorder alcohol patterns emerge.
Why Choose Halo Mental Health for Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment
As a trusted provider of mental health and substance abuse treatment in Las Vegas, Halo Mental Health is committed to helping clients overcome alcohol problems with compassion and expertise. We recognize that alcohol addiction is a complex medical condition, and we treat it with the same level of care as other mental health issues.
Our team collaborates with each client to:
- Reduce alcohol consumption and prevent relapse
- Address the root causes of drinking behavior
- Support overall mental health and well-being
Get Help Today
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol misuse, excessive alcohol use, or alcohol dependence, the time to seek help is now. Contact Halo Mental Health in Las Vegas to begin your recovery journey with experienced professionals who understand the challenges of alcohol addiction.