There are many treatments for alcoholism. Some are effective. But most are not not. And being well-known is completely unrelated to which work and which don’t.
Here’s a list of common treatments for alcoholism.
Each heading is a link.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been a therapy for thousands of years in China. It’s rather new in the West. However, it’s now popular there as well. That includes of it for alcoholism. For this reason, it’s often offered as an option.
Behavioral Treatment
A large number of doctors in the U.S. believe that alcoholism is a behavior pattern. Therefore, they suggest behavioral treatment for it.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy for alcoholism is very effective. It focuses on beliefs and thinking. That’s because thoughts cause feelings and behaviors. This treatment has proven to be effective.
Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine is one of the oldest and most widespread forms of treatment for drinking problems. In fact, there are many plant origins of modern meds.
Holistic Treatment
Holistic treatment attempts to heal the whole person (mind, body and spirit). To do so, it focuses on treating the person rather than the alcoholism itself.
Homeopathy.
Homeopathy is based on the theory that “like cures like.” Homeopaths treat patients by first identifying their symptoms. They then give them very highly diluted doses of substances. Those substances, in large doses, create those symptoms. It acts as a placebo.
Hypnosis.
Hypnotists lead alcoholics into a trance-like state. Hypnotists believe alcoholics can become better at problem solving. Thus, they see it as therapy.
Meds.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved three medicines for treating alcoholism.
Meditation.
Meditation for alcoholism has a long tradition. It has been practiced for thousands of years. It’s long been associated with Eastern religion and philosophy.
Naturopathic Medicine.
Naturopathic medicine for alcoholism is a holistic approach to health. It might include diet and nutrition, homeopathy, acupuncture, and herbal medicine. Also hydrotherapy, exercise, spinal manipulation, and massage. In addition, its may use electric currents, ultrasound, and light.
Nutritional Therapy.
There is strong evidence that alcoholism can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Alcoholics are often deficient in vitamins A, B1, B3, C, D, E, and K. They also tend to be lacking in the minerals calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Therefore, using nutritional therapy for alcoholism has a logical basis.
Orthomolecular Treatment.
Orthomolecular treatment is often called megavitamin therapy. It’s based on the belief that insufficient vitamins, minerals and other substances cause diseases. “Ortho” is from the Greek word meaning “correct.”
Sinclair Method.
The Sinclair Method of alcoholism treatment is unique. It enables most alcoholics to drink in moderation. The technique uses naltrexone. As a result, they don’t get pleasure from drinking.
Spiritual Help.
Spiritual help for alcoholism is widely used. It’s central to Alcoholics Anonymous. It’s also often used in other approaches to healing.
Resources: Treatments for Alcoholism
Web Pages
Understanding Alcoholism: Its Nature, Causes & Possible Cure.
Is Alcoholism a Progressive Disease?
Is Alcoholism an Allergy to Alcohol?
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM).
Readings on Treatments for Alcoholism
Benzie, I. Herbal Medicine. Boca Raton, FL: CRC, 2011.
Dasgupta, A. Prescription or Poison? The Benefits and Dangers of Herbal Remedies. Alameda, CA: Hunter, 2010.
Galanter, M., et al. Assessment of spirituality and its relevance to addiction treatment. J Sub Abuse Treat, 2007, 33, 257–264. P. 263,
Hoffer, A. and Saul, A. The Vitamin Cure for Alcoholism. North Bergen, NJ : Basic Health, 2013.
Hoffer, A. and Saul, A. Orthomolecular Medicine for Everyone. North Bergen, NJ: Basic Health, 2013.
NCCAM. Homeopathy. NCCAM Pub. # D439, 2013.
NIAAA. Alcohol and Nutrition. Rockville, MD: NIAAA Alert No. 22, p. 1