It is painful to watch a parent who is addicted to alcohol. Depending on the duration of their addiction, you may notice a variety of behavioral changes and physical health ailments that begin to develop due to the alcohol. Getting help from a professional treatment program can play a vital role in the recovery process and it may even save the life of your parent.
The Impact of Alcohol on the Body
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism states that alcohol can have a detrimental impact on your health when you drink too much, even if it is only on one occasion.
The health concerns that may arise include:
- Irregular heart beats
- Stroke
- High blood pressure
- Cirrhosis of the liver
- Fatty liver
- Alcoholic hepatitis
- Several forms of cancer, including mouth, throat and liver cancer
Heavy drinking on a single occasion can put your parent at risk for a variety of health concerns. When an addiction to alcohol develops, the likelihood of facing severe health concerns associated with alcohol abuse can increase.
Research the Treatment Options
Encouraging your parent to enter a treatment program will require an understanding of the health concerns they may be facing and the treatment options that are available. Since every individual is different, the treatment programs that are most appropriate for your parent may not always be the first program that you discover.
A Very Tough Issue to Deal With
Contact treatment facilities to ask questions about the treatment process. Ideally, you want to select a program that offers personalized treatment that is based on the needs of the individual.
Since alcohol addiction is a complex condition that may be caused by several factors, a personalized treatment program can assist your parent through the entire process of recovery.
Intervening for Your Loved One
Arrange a time for you and other loved ones of your parent to set up an intervention and discuss the situation in a calm setting. It is likely that your parent may deny having a problem or may not realize the dangers associated with alcohol addiction.
Stay calm through the process and point out your concerns.
Get Professional Help
Seek professional assistance before you intervene so that it is possible to arrange for a professional to help with the preparations and intervention. Your goal during an intervention is to encourage your parent to enter a treatment program. Psych Central states that a honest conversation is the first step to helping your parent get the treatment he or she needs.
An alcohol addiction is dangerous for your parent and any loved ones who interact with your parent on a regular basis. It is important to recognize the impact alcohol may have on your parent’s behavior and take measures to help your parent seek professional treatment.