Last Updated:
October 29th, 2024
For many people, alcohol addiction is an inescapable consequence of casual drinking. For those who have underlying physical and mental ailments, it can act as a false crutch; one which may seem helpful, but ends up doing far more harm than good. In the UK, alcohol consumption is a significant contributor to liver disease, with a 77% share in alcohol-specific deaths, and alcohol-related conditions account for thousands of hospital admissions annually.
If you don’t seek help for a prominent alcohol addiction, you risk the development of these further complications. It may feel difficult to go and have a discussion with your doctor about something so personal, but if you do feel like you may be developing a dependency on alcohol, it’s highly recommended that you seek out medical advice.
Since we realise how difficult this can be, we’re going to walk you through how, why and where you or a loved one can get professional help, and what you can do to prepare for such a conversation.
Why and when should I talk?
Alcohol use disorder (AUD), usually starts innocently. It may be a casual drink with friends, family or a partner that turns into using alcohol in less social settings as a form of self-medication to treat untended emotional or physical traumas or issues.
It’s not until we talk about these concerns with someone who actually understands the medical consequences behind them, that we start to become self-aware enough to comprehend the damage that is being done on all fronts.
You may notice several behavioural patterns that start to emerge on the onset of an alcohol addiction. If you start noticing these in yourself or someone you know, it may well be time to consider a trip to your local GP:
- Trembling
- Nausea
- Withdrawal when alcohol isn’t consumed
Moreover, addiction negatively impacts relationships, work, and life quality. You might notice increased irritability, mood swings, or strained relationships as alcohol use starts to dominate your daily routine.
Preparing for the conversation
Let’s be clear: you should not worry when walking into a conversation about alcohol addiction, personal though it may be. When dealing with such emotional weight, feelings of embarrassment, guilt, or fear are extremely common. While it’s completely normal to feel shame when it comes to these emotions, it’s important to be aware that you’re walking into an environment where openness about such feelings is not only acceptable, but necessary. Honesty and openness can be your best friends here. Not only are they helpful, they are also the gateway to personal development and growth.
That being said, it is easier for some to be open and vulnerable than it is for others. Courage is a muscle, and the bravery to speak openly about your troubles is the most significant step you can take in the recovery process. It is what allows you to open the door to genuine success.
A small tip for preparing yourself mentally– be affirmed by the idea that seeking help and opening up is the only way to reclaim control over your life. Accept and understand that many others have faced similar challenges, and your doctor is equipped with the experience to support you through the process.
It’s also crucial to gather key information before your appointment. Keeping a record of your drinking habits—such as the frequency, the amount consumed, and potential triggers—will provide your doctor with vital insights into your situation. Additionally, note any physical symptoms (like insomnia, shaking, or nausea) and mental health concerns (such as anxiety or depression) that may be linked to alcohol use. Honesty is essential, so be prepared to discuss past attempts to reduce or quit drinking and how alcohol is currently affecting your daily life.
What can I expect during a consultation?
Conversations will most likely begin with a series of questions intended to assess the extent and severity of your alcohol use, usually:
- How much and how often you drink
- When you started drinking
- Whether you’ve experienced any health issues
- Whether you’ve attempted to quit in the past
The purpose here is simply to gauge how powerful a hold alcohol has on your life.
The doctor may also conduct a physical examination or recommend tests to assess the physical effects of alcohol, such as liver function tests. Additionally, they might explore any mental health concerns, like anxiety or depression, which can often accompany alcohol addiction.
Based on the assessment, the next steps may include treatment recommendations. These can involve therapy (such as dialectical-behavioural therapy), medication to manage cravings or withdrawal symptoms, and referrals to specialists like addiction counsellors. The doctor may also suggest NHS-supported services such as local alcohol support groups or rehabilitation programs, including medically assisted detoxification for severe cases. If necessary, they’ll help you navigate options for ongoing support.
Try not to fear judgement from doctors; they are trained specifically to handle conversations like these and guide you steadily towards sustainable recovery.
Handling troubling emotions
Managing these feelings like fear, guilt and embarrassment involves taking small steps, such as discussing your concerns with a supportive friend or family member before your appointment. If you feel comfortable, you can also bring them along to the consultation. This kind of support can alleviate some of the anxiety you might feel, allowing you to approach the conversation with more confidence. Ultimately, seeking help is a courageous and positive step toward recovery. You are not alone in this journey, and with the right support, things can get better.
Follow-up appointments
Follow-up appointments are another way of saying regular check-ins. They provide continuous support and are a great way of tracking progress over time. Since recovery is actually a long-term journey and absolutely not a quick-fix solution to any addiction, these regular check-ins are for you to monitor the effectiveness of treatment, including any prescribed medications, counselling or other interventions. The doctor will naturally adjust treatment plans according to the progress of the individual in question, offering new strategies or referrals as needed.
In addition, it must also be stated that follow-up appointments offer accountability. It can be easy to imagine ourselves bearing the brunt of our own struggle with intense determination and discipline, but the reality is often much harsher. Addiction is not like regular self-improvement. It is an internal war; one that requires external aid. By regularly revisiting the goals set during treatment with a medical professional, patients can maintain their focus and receive ongoing encouragement, which is essential when it comes to avoiding relapse.
How personalised care can help
Professional help can be found either through the NHS or by going private.
The NHS provides free support for individuals with alcohol addiction. Key services include assessments, counselling, detox programs, and referrals to local support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). NHS care is typically outpatient-based, which suits individuals with milder addictions or those with strong support systems. However, for severe cases requiring more intensive care, the NHS can refer patients to inpatient rehab centres. NHS services also include ongoing therapy and aftercare, with resources available through helplines and online tools.
Private rehabs like UKAT specialise in private, tailored addiction treatment, offering more intensive options for those needing immediate or residential care. They provide various services such as medically supervised detox, one-to-one therapy, group counselling, and long-term aftercare. UKAT’s residential rehab programs create a structured, supportive environment that can significantly enhance recovery, especially for individuals with severe addiction or complex needs.
(Click here to see works cited)
- WebMD (n.d.) *When to see a doctor about drinking*. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/when-to-see-doctor-about-drinking (Accessed: 10 September 2024).
- Willis-Knighton Health System (n.d.) *Talking to your doctor about alcohol*. Available at: https://www.wkhs.com/health-resources/wk-health-library/medical-procedures-tests-care-and-management/general-healthcare/talking-to-your-doctor-about-alcohol (Accessed: 10 September 2024).
- Alcohol and Drug Foundation (n.d.) *Talk to your doctor about alcohol and drug use*. Available at: https://adf.org.au/talking-about-drugs/seeking-help/talk-to-doctor-aod-use/ (Accessed: 10 September 2024).
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (n.d.) *Alcohol use: conversation starters*. Available at: https://health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/mental-health-and-relationships/alcohol-use-conversation-starters (Accessed: 10 September 2024).