Alcohol addiction (alcoholism)

What is alcohol addiction?

Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder, is an illness characterised by the inability to control drinking despite the negative consequences it causes to health, family and work. It does not depend on willpower or character: it is a pattern that affects the brain and changes the way a person thinks, feels and makes decisions.

Unlike other substances, alcohol is a legal drug, socially accepted and present at almost every celebration. This means the addiction can go unnoticed for a long time, both by the person who suffers from it and by those around them. Many people live with the problem for years before recognising that they need help.

The good news is that alcoholism can be treated. With the right support it is possible to recover your wellbeing, rebuild relationships and, above all, lose the desire to drink completely.

Symptoms and warning signs of alcoholism

Recognising the problem is the first step towards recovery. Alcohol addiction does not always show itself through obvious drunkenness; it often advances silently. Some of the most common signs are:

• Needing to drink ever greater amounts to feel the same effect (tolerance).
• Withdrawal symptoms such as trembling, sweating, anxiety or insomnia when you stop drinking.
• Failed attempts to cut down or give up drinking.
• Spending a great deal of time drinking or recovering from its effects.
• Drinking alone, in secret or at unusual times.

When alcohol begins to take a central place in your life and comes before family, work or health, it is time to seek professional help.

Causes of alcohol addiction

Alcoholism does not have a single cause; instead it arises from the combination of several factors. There is a biological and genetic component that makes some people more vulnerable. To this are added psychological factors, such as using alcohol to calm anxiety, sadness or stress.

The social and family environment also plays a part: growing up in a setting where drinking is common, peer pressure or situations of emotional suffering can all encourage dependence to develop. At Reconectar we understand that behind every addiction there is a unique story, which is why treatment is always individual and personalised.

Consequences of alcohol use

Prolonged alcohol use affects every area of life. Physically it can cause liver damage, cardiovascular problems, digestive disorders and a greater risk of several types of cancer. Psychologically it is associated with depression, anxiety, memory impairment and sleep problems.

The consequences are also social and family-related: relationship conflicts, growing distance from children, work and financial problems, and progressive isolation. Alcoholism causes deep suffering not only for the person who drinks, but for everyone close to them.

Alcoholism treatment at Reconectar

At Reconectar we treat alcoholism with an outpatient approach that combines the Minnesota Model with cognitive therapy. This means the person can recover without being admitted to any centre, keeping up their daily life, their work and their relationships while they progress through the process.

Treatment is individual and personalised. We work on the beliefs and emotions that sustain the desire to drink, so that abstinence stops being a constant effort and becomes a natural choice. The entire process takes place in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria with complete confidentiality.

What you can expect from the process

• A free initial assessment with no obligation.
• Individual sessions adapted to your pace and your situation.
• Tools to prevent relapse and manage your emotions.
• Support for the family too, when needed.

How to ask for help to stop drinking

Taking the first step is the hardest part, but also the bravest. You do not need to have hit rock bottom to ask for help: the sooner treatment begins, the easier recovery is. If you or someone close to you is struggling with alcohol, getting in touch with us commits you to nothing. We listen to your case and explain how we can help you get your life back.