Alcohol dementia is a form of dementia that occurs due to excessive drinking. This can affect the person’s memory and other cognitive functions. If you have been diagnosed with alcohol-related dementia and need treatment, there are many resource centers available to guide you in the direction of recovery. While dementia is not curable, the symptoms of alcohol-related dementia may be reduced if the person stops drinking.
Symptoms and Causes
Symptoms vary per individual, but generalized symptoms of alcoholic dementia include the following:
- Impaired learning ability
- Change in personality
- Memory loss
- Impaired focus
- Impaired judgment
- Impaired social skills
- Issues with balance
While it is unknown whether or not alcohol directly causes brain damage, nutritional issues consistent with heavy alcohol use are considered critical factors.
If you are battling alcohol dementia, residential addiction treatment may be beneficial in your recovery journey. Reach out to an addiction treatment center to discuss your treatment options.
Co-occurring Disorders
Alcohol-induced dementia is also known to be diagnosed with other mental health disorders. Some dual diagnosis treatment programs include mental health treatment options for the following:
- Depression disorder
- Anxiety disorder
- Bipolar disorder
- Other mood disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Recovery is a long journey, but it is a path worth taking. Contact a recovery center to begin your path toward recovery.
Recovery Programs for Alcohol Dementia
Treating alcohol dementia is mainly focused on treating alcohol addiction. Abstaining from drinking can help reduce, if not resolve, most of the symptoms of alcoholic dementia. Treatment options for substance abuse include inpatient rehab, intensive outpatient programs, cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, 12-step programs, sober living homes, support groups, etc. Inpatient rehab has proven to be highly effective in recovery. During treatment, the person can detox safely, learn coping skills and relapse prevention, all while under the round-the-clock care of a medical team. If you or a loved one need help to manage your diagnosis, contact a behavioral health professional to discuss the best course of action for your recovery. Recovery is hard, but it is possible.