Alcoholism Treatment: A Model of Abstinence-Oriented Care

Alcohol is the United States' foremost drug of abuse. Although a significant portion of the population continues to identify alcoholism with moral weakness, society embraces treatment as the primary mode of dealing with this disease. Treatment stressing ongoing abstinence from alcohol is the most universally accepted method of therapy. Following initial intervention and referral, treatment of the alcoholic includes detoxification; intensive early treatment, using either outpatient or inpatient treatment settings; and long-term support for recovery. Aftercare programs often require continuing attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, recovery support groups, and psychotherapy. In addition, recovering individuals may receive continued health care supervision from a physician knowledgeable about alcoholism. Family therapy is stressed as a component of recovery.