Changes

A number of treatments are available for alcoholism, including detoxification, [[psychotherapy]], self-help groups, and medications.

A number of treatments are available for alcoholism, including detoxification, [[psychotherapy]], self-help groups, and medications.

'''Detoxification'' is an abrupt cessation of drinking, often accompanied by medications such as [[benzodiazepine]]s to minimize withdrawal symptoms.  Detoxification helps a person to cope with the physiological effects of chronic heavy drinking, but does not help with issues such as urges to drink or underlying reasons for alcohol dependence.  Consequently, additional treatment is usually required for a successful outcome.

'''Detoxification''' is an abrupt cessation of drinking, often accompanied by medications such as [[benzodiazepine]]s to minimize withdrawal symptoms.  Detoxification helps a person to cope with the physiological effects of chronic heavy drinking, but does not help with issues such as urges to drink or underlying reasons for alcohol dependence.  Consequently, additional treatment is usually required for a successful outcome.

'''Psychotherapy''' for alcohol dependence can occur in individual or group format.  This treatment helps an individual to be aware of underlying issues that may have led or contributed to alcoholism (e.g., depression).  Psychotherapy also provides an individual with skills to help prevent relapse, such as avoiding situations in which not drinking would be difficult.

'''Psychotherapy''' for alcohol dependence can occur in individual or group format.  This treatment helps an individual to be aware of underlying issues that may have led or contributed to alcoholism (e.g., depression).  Psychotherapy also provides an individual with skills to help prevent relapse, such as avoiding situations in which not drinking would be difficult.