Alternatives to Pain Medication for Chronic Pain Relief
Reports suggest that over 50 million Americans live with lingering pain caused by migraines, past traumas, or conditions such as
Alternatives to Pain Medication for Chronic Pain Relief-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
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Reports suggest that over 50 million Americans live with lingering pain caused by migraines, past traumas, or conditions such as osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and many others. The standard treatment typically includes NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines) and opioids. However, they can do more harm than good in the latter case. Luckily, alternatives to pain medication for chronic pain relief exist in the form of nonpharmacological therapies and techniques. Every one of them helps reduce persistent discomfort and, thus, enables patients to learn to enjoy life all over again!
Scientifically-Backed Alternatives to Pain Medication for Chronic Pain Relief
Until recently, chronic pain was seen solely as a symptom, not an illness. Fortunately, that has changed, and nowadays, medical professionals recognize how important treating it as an actual condition is. However, lingering pain treatment often includes medication that, when used frequently, leads to addiction. That’s why many have begun turning to alternative treatments instead of taking the typical medicated approach. Today, we introduce you precisely to those non-standard pain management strategies. Ones that are 100% backed by science!
#1 Managing Chronic Pain by Practicing Mindfulness
Mindfulness is more than just a fad; it has existed for some time. This form of meditation, with its roots in Eastern cultures, is gaining traction in Western medicine as a way to alleviate symptoms of various illnesses. Reducing stress, chronic pain, and even depressive and anxious episodes are just a few advantages associated with learning to tune into your body, connect with the environment, and help your mind unwind. Positive emotions and self-awareness are two added benefits.
But how exactly does mindfulness ”cure” chronic pain? Well, it doesn’t cure it per se. It does, however, change one’s perception of pain, reduce their pain threshold, and, thus, help one cope with it better. That begs the question, if mindfulness can alleviate long-term discomfort, what’s to say it is nothing but a psychological manifestation? Well, science says it isn’t. That exact science, or rather MRI scans, proves that mindfulness alters the neural response to pain. It appears to be particularly effective in treating pain related to fibromyalgia, inflammatory bowel diseases, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Mindfulness-based programs most typically include a group environment and an instructor. However, some people may experiment with practicing it using books or audio recordings. On top of group classes during which joint discussion is encouraged, writing exercises to foster self-awareness are often conducted.
#2 Acupuncture
Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine, practiced for hundreds of years. During an acupuncture session, tiny needles puncture the skin at certain spots to activate or change the flow of chi — energy which helps maintain normal bodily functions. In Western medicine, however, these needles stimulate the nervous system to produce more or fewer chemicals, depending on what is needed to recuperate.
Multiple studies that researched the effectiveness of acupuncture for chronic pain treatment revealed that the therapy is highly beneficial. They have also shown that its effects last over time and are not prescribed to placebo. Furthermore, this ancient Chinese practice is considered one of the safest alternatives to pain medication for chronic pain relief. And while it’s commonly used to treat back pain, joint discomfort, and migraines, acupuncture has also provided lasting relief in those suffering from more serious medical conditions. Crohn’s disease, endometriosis, and ulcerative colitis are only a few examples.
#3 Physical Therapy
Physical therapy, or PT as many would call it, is a form of active treatment that can help patients regain strength, improve mobility, and lower discomfort. A physical therapist is responsible for conducting such treatment, which revolves around exercise, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, massage, and others. All of these work together to disrupt pain signals, increase blood flow, and stimulate the production of endorphins, thus minimizing pain.
Physical therapy primarily deals with pain caused by injury, which may occur from overly exerting yourself physically. Many would agree that prevention is the best form of treatment, which is why asking for help with physically demanding tasks like lawn care or moving can be beneficial. However, you can count on PT for pain relief if an injury occurs.
On top of alleviating trauma-induced chronic pain, physical therapy can also relieve that resulting from hip and knee osteoarthritis, back problems, and sciatica. It can also make those afraid to move to feel more at ease and safe with exercises, thus helping them physically and mentally.
#4 Chiropractic Adjustment
Many individuals swear by chiropractic adjustment. This hands-on therapy entails spinal manipulation and, in some instances, manipulation of other body parts to improve range of motion, alignment, and physical function. According to practitioners, fixing the spinal alignment is important as it lessens the strain on the central nervous system. This, in turn, boosts the body’s ability to repair itself, which results in lower pain.
However, there is one downside to using chiropractic therapy as one of the alternatives to pain medication for chronic pain relief. And that’s because only musculoskeletal ailments have been shown to benefit from the technique. Nevertheless, patients experiencing neck discomfort, scoliosis, headaches, and migraines report feeling better even after a single chiropractic session, with those dealing with lower back pain reporting the most significant relief. Furthermore, this therapy has also proven effective for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) and those experiencing osteoarthritis-induced hip and back pain.
The question is, where are chiropractic sessions held? Well, typically, in a professional setting or a medical office. And while even a single visit can help, typically, multiple ones are necessary. Thankfully, most insurance policies cover this type of treatment.
During a session, a chiropractor will perform adjustments on a patient that either sits or lies on a table. It’s common to experience symptoms such as muscle soreness or fatigue a few days after therapy. Patients may feel similar to how they would go after strenuous physical activity.
Last Notes
Alternatives to pain medication for chronic pain relief can make your life easier. Unfortunately, a pharmaceutical approach can be the only option in specific situations. However, taking drugs without a doctor’s approval isn’t wise. If abused, they can lead to a vicious cycle of addiction. One that you can only break through a rehabilitation program. However, when taken correctly, painkillers can be effective in reducing discomfort.
Alternatives to Pain Medication for Chronic Pain Relief-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
" } ["summary"]=> string(629) "Alternatives to Pain Medication for Chronic Pain Relief
Reports suggest that over 50 million Americans live with lingering pain caused by migraines, past traumas, or conditions such as
Alternatives to Pain Medication for Chronic Pain Relief-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
" ["atom_content"]=> string(8706) "Alternatives to Pain Medication for Chronic Pain Relief
Reports suggest that over 50 million Americans live with lingering pain caused by migraines, past traumas, or conditions such as osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and many others. The standard treatment typically includes NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines) and opioids. However, they can do more harm than good in the latter case. Luckily, alternatives to pain medication for chronic pain relief exist in the form of nonpharmacological therapies and techniques. Every one of them helps reduce persistent discomfort and, thus, enables patients to learn to enjoy life all over again!
Scientifically-Backed Alternatives to Pain Medication for Chronic Pain Relief
Until recently, chronic pain was seen solely as a symptom, not an illness. Fortunately, that has changed, and nowadays, medical professionals recognize how important treating it as an actual condition is. However, lingering pain treatment often includes medication that, when used frequently, leads to addiction. That’s why many have begun turning to alternative treatments instead of taking the typical medicated approach. Today, we introduce you precisely to those non-standard pain management strategies. Ones that are 100% backed by science!
#1 Managing Chronic Pain by Practicing Mindfulness
Mindfulness is more than just a fad; it has existed for some time. This form of meditation, with its roots in Eastern cultures, is gaining traction in Western medicine as a way to alleviate symptoms of various illnesses. Reducing stress, chronic pain, and even depressive and anxious episodes are just a few advantages associated with learning to tune into your body, connect with the environment, and help your mind unwind. Positive emotions and self-awareness are two added benefits.
But how exactly does mindfulness ”cure” chronic pain? Well, it doesn’t cure it per se. It does, however, change one’s perception of pain, reduce their pain threshold, and, thus, help one cope with it better. That begs the question, if mindfulness can alleviate long-term discomfort, what’s to say it is nothing but a psychological manifestation? Well, science says it isn’t. That exact science, or rather MRI scans, proves that mindfulness alters the neural response to pain. It appears to be particularly effective in treating pain related to fibromyalgia, inflammatory bowel diseases, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Mindfulness-based programs most typically include a group environment and an instructor. However, some people may experiment with practicing it using books or audio recordings. On top of group classes during which joint discussion is encouraged, writing exercises to foster self-awareness are often conducted.
#2 Acupuncture
Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine, practiced for hundreds of years. During an acupuncture session, tiny needles puncture the skin at certain spots to activate or change the flow of chi — energy which helps maintain normal bodily functions. In Western medicine, however, these needles stimulate the nervous system to produce more or fewer chemicals, depending on what is needed to recuperate.
Multiple studies that researched the effectiveness of acupuncture for chronic pain treatment revealed that the therapy is highly beneficial. They have also shown that its effects last over time and are not prescribed to placebo. Furthermore, this ancient Chinese practice is considered one of the safest alternatives to pain medication for chronic pain relief. And while it’s commonly used to treat back pain, joint discomfort, and migraines, acupuncture has also provided lasting relief in those suffering from more serious medical conditions. Crohn’s disease, endometriosis, and ulcerative colitis are only a few examples.
#3 Physical Therapy
Physical therapy, or PT as many would call it, is a form of active treatment that can help patients regain strength, improve mobility, and lower discomfort. A physical therapist is responsible for conducting such treatment, which revolves around exercise, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, massage, and others. All of these work together to disrupt pain signals, increase blood flow, and stimulate the production of endorphins, thus minimizing pain.
Physical therapy primarily deals with pain caused by injury, which may occur from overly exerting yourself physically. Many would agree that prevention is the best form of treatment, which is why asking for help with physically demanding tasks like lawn care or moving can be beneficial. However, you can count on PT for pain relief if an injury occurs.
On top of alleviating trauma-induced chronic pain, physical therapy can also relieve that resulting from hip and knee osteoarthritis, back problems, and sciatica. It can also make those afraid to move to feel more at ease and safe with exercises, thus helping them physically and mentally.
#4 Chiropractic Adjustment
Many individuals swear by chiropractic adjustment. This hands-on therapy entails spinal manipulation and, in some instances, manipulation of other body parts to improve range of motion, alignment, and physical function. According to practitioners, fixing the spinal alignment is important as it lessens the strain on the central nervous system. This, in turn, boosts the body’s ability to repair itself, which results in lower pain.
However, there is one downside to using chiropractic therapy as one of the alternatives to pain medication for chronic pain relief. And that’s because only musculoskeletal ailments have been shown to benefit from the technique. Nevertheless, patients experiencing neck discomfort, scoliosis, headaches, and migraines report feeling better even after a single chiropractic session, with those dealing with lower back pain reporting the most significant relief. Furthermore, this therapy has also proven effective for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) and those experiencing osteoarthritis-induced hip and back pain.
The question is, where are chiropractic sessions held? Well, typically, in a professional setting or a medical office. And while even a single visit can help, typically, multiple ones are necessary. Thankfully, most insurance policies cover this type of treatment.
During a session, a chiropractor will perform adjustments on a patient that either sits or lies on a table. It’s common to experience symptoms such as muscle soreness or fatigue a few days after therapy. Patients may feel similar to how they would go after strenuous physical activity.
Last Notes
Alternatives to pain medication for chronic pain relief can make your life easier. Unfortunately, a pharmaceutical approach can be the only option in specific situations. However, taking drugs without a doctor’s approval isn’t wise. If abused, they can lead to a vicious cycle of addiction. One that you can only break through a rehabilitation program. However, when taken correctly, painkillers can be effective in reducing discomfort.
Alternatives to Pain Medication for Chronic Pain Relief-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
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Understanding the cycle of addiction is the great first step to understanding why addiction happens and how to break the pattern!
Understanding the Cycle of Addiction-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
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Understanding the cycle of addiction is the great first step to understanding why addiction happens and how to break the pattern!
Understanding the Cycle of Addiction-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
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What is Transfer Addiction?-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
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What is Transfer Addiction?-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
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For any trauma survivor, talking about the experience can be challenging. Really hard. Depending on the individual’s experience, although effective,
Embark on a Creative Journey to Overcome Trauma Through Art Therapy-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
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For any trauma survivor, talking about the experience can be challenging. Really hard. Depending on the individual’s experience, although effective,
Embark on a Creative Journey to Overcome Trauma Through Art Therapy-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
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Due to the widespread use and general social acceptance of drugs and alcohol, many people are confused regarding dependence vs.
Dependence vs. Addiction: What’s the Difference?-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
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Due to the widespread use and general social acceptance of drugs and alcohol, many people are confused regarding dependence vs.
Dependence vs. Addiction: What’s the Difference?-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
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It can be difficult to tell how some people will perceive your choice to enter a rehab facility. If you’re
How Does Going to Rehab Affect Legal Proceedings?-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
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It can be difficult to tell how some people will perceive your choice to enter a rehab facility. If you’re
How Does Going to Rehab Affect Legal Proceedings?-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
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Watching a loved one suffer and struggle with a substance use disorder is painful, especially if you’ve tried everything to
Can You Force Someone Into Rehab?-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
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Watching a loved one suffer and struggle with a substance use disorder is painful, especially if you’ve tried everything to
Can You Force Someone Into Rehab?-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
" ["atom_content"]=> string(1) "A" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1661278098) } [7]=> array(12) { ["title"]=> string(66) "Drug Use in Teens | Normal or Cause for Concern? | Latest Research" ["link"]=> string(45) "https://www.allinsolutions.com/teen-drug-use/" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(14) "David Piperato" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Fri, 22 Jul 2022 19:07:40 +0000" ["category"]=> string(15) "Substance Abuse" ["guid"]=> string(39) "https://www.allinsolutions.com/?p=10560" ["description"]=> string(624) "Drug Use in Teens | Normal or Cause for Concern? | Latest Research
Introduction to Teen Drug Use Teens go through a lot of change, both physically and mentally, as they begin their
Drug Use in Teens | Normal or Cause for Concern? | Latest Research-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
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Introduction to Teen Drug Use Teens go through a lot of change, both physically and mentally, as they begin their
Drug Use in Teens | Normal or Cause for Concern? | Latest Research-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
" ["atom_content"]=> string(1) "A" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1658516860) } [8]=> array(11) { ["title"]=> string(50) "Teen Alcohol Abuse: How Worried Should Parents Be?" ["link"]=> string(50) "https://www.allinsolutions.com/teen-alcohol-abuse/" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(14) "David Piperato" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Thu, 14 Jul 2022 20:54:00 +0000" ["category"]=> string(35) "Alcohol - AlcoholismSubstance Abuse" ["guid"]=> string(39) "https://www.allinsolutions.com/?p=10533" ["description"]=> string(604) "Teen Alcohol Abuse: How Worried Should Parents Be?
Parents of teens know how challenging it is to protect their children from danger while allowing them to maintain a
Teen Alcohol Abuse: How Worried Should Parents Be?-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
" ["content"]=> array(1) { ["encoded"]=> string(6938) "Teen Alcohol Abuse: How Worried Should Parents Be?
Parents of teens know how challenging it is to protect their children from danger while allowing them to maintain a healthy sense of autonomy. This balance between allowing them to make (and hopefully learn from) their own mistakes and guiding them toward a successful future often leaves parents questioning their decisions. One of the most common of these questions: how worried should I be about my teen drinking? Fortunately, there is some new research that explores the relationship between teen alcohol abuse and alcohol use disorders later in life.
Underage Drinking Statistics
To accurately assess how troublesome a teenager’s alcohol use is, it is important to put the potential problem in context. According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 40% of those between 12 and 20 years of age report drinking at least once, and almost 20% reported drinking within the past month.
And, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, when young people drink they tend to binge drink. In fact, 90% of all drinks consumed by people between the ages of 12 and 20 are consumed through binge drinking (drinking large amounts of alcohol in a single sitting).
While there are certainly many dangers associated with underage drinking, including alcohol poisoning, motor vehicle accidents, assaults (and sexual assaults), an impact on brain development, and more, the statistics do show that alcohol use among teens is not uncommon. High school students and young adults drink for a number of reasons, some of which may involve peer pressure. But as it relates to problems with addiction and alcoholism, how do parents know if they should be worried?
CMU Study: Drinking Alone Foreshadows AUD in Adolescents and Young Adults
According to a Carnegie Mellon study that investigated the correlation between drinking patterns in adolescence and young adulthood and alcohol use disorder (alcoholism) later in life, drinking alone is a strong indicator of future problems. Kasey Cresswell, lead author of the study says, “Most young people who drink do it with others in social settings, but a substantial minority of young people are drinking alone. Solitary drinking is a unique and robust risk factor for future alcohol use disorder. Even after we account for well-known risk factors, like binge drinking, frequency of alcohol use, socioeconomic status and gender, we see a strong signal that drinking alone as a young person predicts drinking problems in adulthood.”
So, just how bad is drinking alone? The study found that those who reported drinking alone at age 18 were 35% more likely to show symptoms of alcohol use disorder (AUD) at age 35 compared to social-only drinkers. The effect was even stronger in young adults. Those who reported drinking alone between ages 23-24 were 60% more likely to have a problem with alcohol at age 35 than their counterparts who drank only in social settings.
The study also found that adolescent females who drank alone appeared to be at particular risk for developing future alcohol problems in adulthood.
Florida Alcohol Treatment Experts Respond
When asked about the results of the study, Albert Zingariello, LCSW, and clinical director at All In Solutions Counseling Center stated, “These results support what we have seen for years in treating adults with addictions. It is often the behavior that surrounds the use of drugs and alcohol that is the greatest indication of a potential problem. When young people are using drugs or alcohol in isolation, it should be a big warning sign that the role intoxicants play in their lives is unhealthy and unlikely to resolve without intervention.”
There are of course many other factors that contribute to problems with alcohol in adulthood, including the age at which a person starts drinking and the presence of family members with drinking problems. Studies have shown that those who start drinking at an especially young age are more prone to addiction. And of course, genetics and family environment play a role.
But, for parents concerned about their teens drinking alcohol, the important thing to know is that if they are drinking alone, it may be time to step in. Other studies by Cresswell show that drinking in isolation is a sign that an individual is using alcohol as a way to cope with negative emotions. This kind of behavior, abusing alcohol as a coping mechanism, has consistently been linked to the development of alcoholism.
If you have questions about teen alcohol abuse or would like to seek help for yourself or a loved one don’t hesitate to reach out to All In Solutions Counseling Center. Experienced treatment center staff are available 24/7 to assist you and your family.
Teen Alcohol Abuse: How Worried Should Parents Be?-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
" } ["summary"]=> string(604) "Teen Alcohol Abuse: How Worried Should Parents Be?
Parents of teens know how challenging it is to protect their children from danger while allowing them to maintain a
Teen Alcohol Abuse: How Worried Should Parents Be?-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
" ["atom_content"]=> string(6938) "Teen Alcohol Abuse: How Worried Should Parents Be?
Parents of teens know how challenging it is to protect their children from danger while allowing them to maintain a healthy sense of autonomy. This balance between allowing them to make (and hopefully learn from) their own mistakes and guiding them toward a successful future often leaves parents questioning their decisions. One of the most common of these questions: how worried should I be about my teen drinking? Fortunately, there is some new research that explores the relationship between teen alcohol abuse and alcohol use disorders later in life.
Underage Drinking Statistics
To accurately assess how troublesome a teenager’s alcohol use is, it is important to put the potential problem in context. According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 40% of those between 12 and 20 years of age report drinking at least once, and almost 20% reported drinking within the past month.
And, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, when young people drink they tend to binge drink. In fact, 90% of all drinks consumed by people between the ages of 12 and 20 are consumed through binge drinking (drinking large amounts of alcohol in a single sitting).
While there are certainly many dangers associated with underage drinking, including alcohol poisoning, motor vehicle accidents, assaults (and sexual assaults), an impact on brain development, and more, the statistics do show that alcohol use among teens is not uncommon. High school students and young adults drink for a number of reasons, some of which may involve peer pressure. But as it relates to problems with addiction and alcoholism, how do parents know if they should be worried?
CMU Study: Drinking Alone Foreshadows AUD in Adolescents and Young Adults
According to a Carnegie Mellon study that investigated the correlation between drinking patterns in adolescence and young adulthood and alcohol use disorder (alcoholism) later in life, drinking alone is a strong indicator of future problems. Kasey Cresswell, lead author of the study says, “Most young people who drink do it with others in social settings, but a substantial minority of young people are drinking alone. Solitary drinking is a unique and robust risk factor for future alcohol use disorder. Even after we account for well-known risk factors, like binge drinking, frequency of alcohol use, socioeconomic status and gender, we see a strong signal that drinking alone as a young person predicts drinking problems in adulthood.”
So, just how bad is drinking alone? The study found that those who reported drinking alone at age 18 were 35% more likely to show symptoms of alcohol use disorder (AUD) at age 35 compared to social-only drinkers. The effect was even stronger in young adults. Those who reported drinking alone between ages 23-24 were 60% more likely to have a problem with alcohol at age 35 than their counterparts who drank only in social settings.
The study also found that adolescent females who drank alone appeared to be at particular risk for developing future alcohol problems in adulthood.
Florida Alcohol Treatment Experts Respond
When asked about the results of the study, Albert Zingariello, LCSW, and clinical director at All In Solutions Counseling Center stated, “These results support what we have seen for years in treating adults with addictions. It is often the behavior that surrounds the use of drugs and alcohol that is the greatest indication of a potential problem. When young people are using drugs or alcohol in isolation, it should be a big warning sign that the role intoxicants play in their lives is unhealthy and unlikely to resolve without intervention.”
There are of course many other factors that contribute to problems with alcohol in adulthood, including the age at which a person starts drinking and the presence of family members with drinking problems. Studies have shown that those who start drinking at an especially young age are more prone to addiction. And of course, genetics and family environment play a role.
But, for parents concerned about their teens drinking alcohol, the important thing to know is that if they are drinking alone, it may be time to step in. Other studies by Cresswell show that drinking in isolation is a sign that an individual is using alcohol as a way to cope with negative emotions. This kind of behavior, abusing alcohol as a coping mechanism, has consistently been linked to the development of alcoholism.
If you have questions about teen alcohol abuse or would like to seek help for yourself or a loved one don’t hesitate to reach out to All In Solutions Counseling Center. Experienced treatment center staff are available 24/7 to assist you and your family.
Teen Alcohol Abuse: How Worried Should Parents Be?-All In Solutions-All In Solutions - A Solutions Based Behavioral Healthcare Group
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