Alcohol Addiction Treatment in Novato, California

Alcohol Addiction Treatment Center in Novato, Marin County, CA

Alcohol abuse is a major issue affecting individuals and communities across the state of California. As one of the most commonly used substances in the United States, alcohol can have devastating effects on an individual’s physical and mental health, relationships, and overall well-being.

If you’re seeking alcohol rehab in Northern California and the surrounding areas, Golden Gate Recovery is here for you. We offer addiction and mental health treatment programs for men, including outpatient, partial hospitalization, sober living, and therapy services.

What is Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)?

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), also known as alcoholism, is a chronic brain disease characterized by the compulsive use of alcohol, despite negative consequences. It is considered a disorder because it affects an individual’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being, and can lead to severe health problems.

Alcohol addiction can manifest in different ways, ranging from mild to severe. Some individuals may have a mild form of alcoholism, where they engage in binge drinking or heavy drinking on occasion but do not experience significant impairment in their daily functioning. On the other hand, others may have a severe AUD, where they are unable to control their alcohol consumption and continue to drink excessively despite adverse effects on their relationships, work, and overall health.

The development of an alcohol use disorder is influenced by various factors such as genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and psychological factors. People with a family history of alcohol abuse are at a higher risk of developing the disorder. Stressful life events or trauma can also contribute.

With the help of our alcohol rehab in California, individuals with alcoholism can manage their condition and lead a healthier and more fulfilling life. Learn how our alcohol rehab in California in conjunction with addiction therapy services can help you or a loved one achieve sobriety.

Risk Factors for Alcohol Abuse

• Gender: Males are more likely to abuse alcohol than females.
• Genetics/family history of substance abuse: People with a family history of alcohol abuse are more likely to have issues with alcoholism. For example, having a parent who has an alcohol use disorder (AUD).
• Mental illness/dual diagnosis: Suffering from mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia.
• Peer pressure/society: People dealing with peer pressure or societal pressure

In addition to these known risk factors, other circumstances may also elevate the risk of alcohol use disorder:

• Being a young adult who experiences peer pressure.
• Having low self-esteem.
• Enduring high levels of stress and trauma.

How Many Drinks a Day is Considered Alcohol Abuse?

Knowing how to measure alcohol intake is important in calculating the acceptable number of drinks. A normal amount of drinks is the following:

• 5 ounces of distilled spirits (Example: Rum or whiskey).
• 5 ounces of wine.
• 12 ounces of beer

Although the precise cause of alcohol use disorder remains uncertain, several factors can potentially increase the likelihood of developing this condition. It’s considered alcohol abuse is diagnosed when someone:

• Engages in binge drinking, which involves consuming more than five drinks per day at least once a week.
• Drinking 14 drinks or more weekly.
• Males: Consumes 4 or more drinks, or more than 15 drinks per week.
• Females: Consumes 3 or more drinks, or more than 12 per week.
• If older than 65, drinking more than 3-7 drinks weekly or daily.

Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of individuals around the world and can have devastating consequences on an individual’s physical, mental, and emotional health. The signs and symptoms of alcohol addiction can vary from person to person, but some common indicators may suggest the presence of a drinking problem.