Alcohol Treatment

What are alcohol dependence and addiction?

Alcohol addiction and dependence are often used interchangeably. They are two different processes that most usually occur together, but need different foci when considering treatment. Diablo Valley Drug and Alcohol Services team treats both at their inpatient and outpatient clinics:

Alcohol dependence

Alcohol dependence and its associated withdrawal can be debilitating, even life threatening. Dr Smeester, with his expertise in Addiction Medicine and Emergency Medicine, developed the only physican-run program for drug and alcohol rehabilitation in the area. Our inpatient detox unit Magnolia Recovery in Walnut Creek allows you to receive expert care in a luxurious setting, with private rooms and plenty of additional luxurious space, for your comfort and success. 

Because of reliance on alcohol, one may experience severe withdrawal symptoms when trying to get sober, including nausea, headaches, chills, and vomiting. This can even lead to critical illness. But this can be prevented in the right setting, in the right hands. You can rely on Magnolia Recovery to help you overcome this challenge. You will never regret the investment.

Alcohol addiction

Alcohol addiction and dependency can lead to devastating physical and mental health consequences. If you’re struggling with alcohol addiction, you may find yourself binge drinking when the opportunity presents itself, or drinking on a daily basis, even if only in the evenings, or another schedule. While you might not need alcohol to function at work or school, it can be very difficult to stop drinking once you've developed dependency.

Alcohol addiction can lead to alcohol poisoning, legal problems, relationship strains, and more.

What are my alcohol treatment options?

Diablo Valley Drug and Alcohol Services provides a broad range of alcohol treatment options, such as:

Detox

Alcohol detox is the first step in your treatment plan. Fortunately, you don’t have to go “cold turkey” to detox without relapsing. 

Inpatient- the most successful and comfortable way to stop drinking. At Magnolia Recovery we have expertise in withdrawal management (detox). This in a very private setting, with luxurious surroundings. When you have put this phase behind you then one can join our residential and outpatient programs. 

Vivitrol®

Vivitrol, or naltrexone for extended-release injectable suspension, is a non-addictive injection designed to minimize heavy drinking in alcohol-dependent patients. This powerful medication can help reduce your chances of relapsing after your alcohol detox, which promotes a smoother recovery. If you think you’re a good candidate for Vivitrol, you must detox first, avoid alcohol, and enroll in a counseling program for the treatment to be effective.

Intensive counseling

Intensive counseling is crucial for both your alcohol detox and recovery. Diablo Valley Drug and Alcohol Services provides both individual counseling and family therapy throughout your alcohol treatment to ensure you have the support you need to overcome your addiction.

How do I know if I need alcohol treatment?

It’s hard to know when to ask for help when you’re struggling with alcohol addiction or dependence. If you’re unsure whether you drink too much on a regular basis, ask yourself the following questions:

• Are your behaviors often harmful to yourself or others when you drink?
• Do you often blackout while drinking?
• Do you drink every day, or only occasionally?
• How often do you binge drink?
• Has a trusted friend or relative ever approached you about your drinking habits?

If you answered “yes” to one or more of these questions, call Diablo Valley Drug and Alcohol Services or book an appointment online.