How Psychiatrists Help You Overcome Alcohol Addiction Safely?
Alcohol addiction is a growing concern in today’s fast-paced world. Many people start drinking socially but slowly lose control over their habits, affecting their health, relationships, and work life. The good news is that recovery is possible with the right guidance and professional help. According to Dr. Pratibha Bezwada, a leading psychiatrist with over 19 years of experience, overcoming addiction is not about willpower alone it’s about understanding the root cause and receiving proper medical and emotional support.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with alcohol dependency, this article will help you understand how psychiatrists help individuals overcome alcohol addiction safely and regain a healthier, happier life.
Understanding Alcohol Addiction:
Alcohol addiction, also known as Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), is a condition where a person becomes physically and mentally dependent on alcohol. Over time, the brain adapts to alcohol, making it hard for the person to function without drinking.
Common signs of alcohol addiction include:
- Inability to stop drinking once started
- Needing more alcohol to feel the same effect
- Neglecting work, family, or health due to drinking
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, sweating, or nausea
- Feeling guilty or ashamed but unable to quit
Recognizing these signs early and seeking professional help can prevent long-term physical and mental damage.
Why You Should Seek Psychiatric Help for Alcohol Addiction?
Many people try to quit drinking on their own but relapse after a few days or weeks. This happens because alcohol addiction is not just a habit—it’s a mental and physical health disorder that affects the brain’s reward system.
A psychiatrist plays a vital role in treating alcohol addiction because they understand both the medical and emotional aspects of the condition. They can identify the underlying causes, such as depression, anxiety, or stress, and treat them alongside addiction. This makes recovery more effective and long-lasting.
How Psychiatrists Help You Overcome Alcohol Addiction Safely?
- Detailed Assessment and Diagnosis: The first step is understanding your situation. The psychiatrist will discuss your drinking habits, mental health history, and any emotional triggers. They may also assess for coexisting conditions like depression, anxiety, or trauma. This detailed assessment helps create a personalized recovery plan that addresses both physical dependence and emotional well-being.
- Medical Detoxification: Quitting alcohol suddenly can lead to dangerous withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, sweating, nausea, or even seizures. A psychiatrist ensures you undergo detox safely, often under medical supervision. During detox, medications may be prescribed to manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications. This process helps the body clear alcohol while keeping the patient comfortable and safe.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (If Needed): Some individuals may benefit from medicines that reduce alcohol cravings or block the pleasure effects of alcohol. These medications are used only under a psychiatrist’s supervision. Dr. Pratibha Bezwada uses evidence-based treatments to help patients reduce dependence gradually and build control over their urges.
- Counselling and Psychotherapy: Psychiatric counselling plays a major role in addiction recovery. Through therapy sessions, patients learn to identify the emotional and psychological triggers that lead to drinking. Therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) help patients change negative thought patterns, build coping skills, and handle stress in healthier ways. Counselling also improves motivation and self-esteem during recovery.
- Addressing Coexisting Mental Health Conditions: Many people with alcohol addiction also suffer from mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or trauma. Treating only addiction without addressing these underlying problems can lead to relapse.
Psychiatrists like Dr. Pratibha Bezwada treat both conditions together, ensuring complete healing of mind and body. - Family Counselling and Support: Addiction not only affects the person drinking but also impacts the entire family. Family counselling helps loved ones understand how to provide support without enabling addictive behaviour. It also strengthens relationships and builds a positive environment for long-term recovery.
- Relapse Prevention and Long-Term Care: Recovery doesn’t end after quitting alcohol. The risk of relapse is high in the early months. That’s why psychiatrists create long-term plans, including regular follow-ups, therapy sessions, and lifestyle guidance. Dr. Pratibha Bezwada encourages patients to stay connected through follow-up visits to monitor progress, handle challenges, and maintain sobriety confidently.
Benefits of Psychiatric Care for Alcohol Addiction:
Seeking help from a psychiatrist offers several advantages:
- Safe and supervised detox process
- Customized treatment plans for individual needs.
- Reduced risk of relapse through therapy and counselling.
- Better emotional control and improved mental health
- Support for family and relationships
- Holistic recovery, not just symptom management
This integrated approach helps patients not only quit alcohol but also rebuild confidence, focus, and self-worth.
Why Choose Dr. Pratibha Bezwada for Alcohol Addiction Treatment?
Dr. Pratibha Bezwada is a highly experienced and compassionate psychiatrist known for her holistic approach to addiction treatment. She has served in reputed organizations such as the NHS (UK), Vizag Steel, and the Indian Railways. At Livwell Happier Minds Mental Health Centre and Day Care in Pune, she provides evidence-based and patient-focused addiction recovery programs.
Her treatment approach combines medical care, psychotherapy, and lifestyle support. She also offers de-addiction counselling that empowers patients to rebuild their lives, strengthen their relationships, and maintain long-term recovery.
With her expertise and empathetic counselling, patients feel safe, understood, and motivated to heal at their own pace.
Conclusion:
Overcoming alcohol addiction is not easy, but it is absolutely possible with the right help. Seeking psychiatric care ensures you recover safely, both physically and emotionally.
If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol dependence, don’t wait for things to worsen. Reach out to Dr. Pratibha Bezwada, a trusted and experienced psychiatrist, for professional guidance and personalized treatment.
With expert support, patience, and commitment, you can take back control of your life and look forward to a healthier, happier future free from addiction.