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Treatment for Three Decades and Counting

If you or a loved one is experiencing addiction, we’re here to help.

Dealing with Emotions During Alcohol Treatment

woman sits on the ground with her knees to her chest leaning on her arms and legs while struggling with alcohol and emotions

Individuals in alcohol addiction recovery may experience intense and unexpected emotions. Alcohol addiction often comes with powerful feelings of guilt and sadness. In addition, the individual may feel anger or shame for their actions during active alcohol use. These emotions can be so overwhelming that many people avoid seeking treatment for alcohol addiction entirely due to fear of how they will face their feelings.

This wide range of feelings can be disturbing, but it should be expected when working through alcohol addiction treatment. At Michael’s House, we know to help people through this challenging time. We understand that the feelings associated with alcohol addiction recovery can be overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that these emotions are normal and necessary for successful treatment. Call us today at 760.548.4032 to better understand the connection between alcohol and emotions.

Recognizing Emotional Triggers

Alcohol and emotions can be a tricky combination to manage. It is often helpful to recognize what triggers an extreme emotional response. One of the best ways to do this is to keep a journal. Throughout the day, jot down when you notice a strong or unexpected reaction to an event. For example, write it down if someone says something or you see something on television, and it elicits an unexpected emotional response.

If that’s impossible, take a moment at the end of the day to write down what you can remember. Describe how you felt immediately before, during, and after, taking special note of the changes. Did your skin feel hot? Did your heart race? Did your breathing change? Recognizing these changes will prepare you better, even if you can’t yet stem the emotions.

How to Deal with Emotions During Alcohol Treatment

One area you should focus on during alcohol addiction treatment is working through the issues that lead to strong emotions. Addressing these issues helps to protect you from relapse in the future. So as difficult as it may be, commit to resolving these challenging issues as much as possible. This time in alcohol rehab will serve you for the rest of your recovery.

Working through emotions during alcohol treatment requires patience and persistence. It’s essential to embrace the process of self-discovery and healing, which often involves confronting deeply held emotions and beliefs. Incorporating mindfulness exercises into your daily routine can help you become more aware of your feelings, allowing you to manage them more effectively.

Regular therapy sessions with a professional counselor can also provide invaluable assistance, offering a supportive space to voice your feelings and fears and gain insights into your triggers. Remember, overcoming alcohol addiction is not just about stopping drinking—it’s about understanding and managing your emotions to live a balanced, healthier life.

Advantages of Dealing with Alcoholism Through Addiction Treatment

Alcohol addiction treatment programs offer numerous benefits that can profoundly impact an individual’s recovery journey. These advantages are multifaceted, addressing wellness’s physical, emotional, and social aspects.

  • Physical health – Treatment centers provide medical supervision and resources to help manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure overall physical health.
  • Coping mechanisms – These programs equip individuals with effective coping strategies to deal with cravings, emotional triggers, and stress, reducing the risk of relapse.
  • Therapeutic support – Regular therapy sessions allow individuals to explore the root cause of their addiction, address underlying issues, and develop healthier emotional management strategies.
  • Peer support – Addiction treatment programs foster a supportive community of individuals on the path of recovery, offering an invaluable source of motivation and understanding.
  • Holistic healing – Many treatment centers also incorporate holistic therapies such as meditation, yoga, and art therapy to promote overall well-being and enhance the recovery experience.

Embarking on an addiction treatment program can be the first step toward a healthier, alcohol-free life, allowing individuals to regain their independence and enjoy a renewed sense of purpose.

Find Recovery with Michael’s House and Our Alcohol Addiction Treatment

It’s essential to keep in mind that alcohol use, particularly over a prolonged period, can alter the chemistry of the brain. As a result, your emotional responses, or lack of emotional responses, change as you continue to drink. The recovery process is how your entire body rebuilds itself to become healthy again. The great news is treatment is available. Please contact us today at 760.548.4032 to learn more about our alcohol and emotions and how our alcohol addiction treatment can offer support and healing.

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