It is not a secret that many people get introduced to alcohol at a young age. Whether it is by a friend or a family member, a staggering percentage of people begin drinking before the legal age. At Bayview Recovery, we often witness the aftermath of alcohol and young adults first hand. Because it is widely available, alcohol is one of the most common gateway drugs. Young adults who drink often become dependent on alcohol, and some move on to even more dangerous substances. Fortunately, you do not have to overcome substance abuse disorders on your own.
Effects of Alcohol
Those with alcohol abuse disorder may also experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. Often, mental health disorders cause people to turn to alcohol, and young adults are particularly vulnerable due to their lack of impulse control.
Alcoholism leads to emotional, mental, and physical side effects such as:
- Heart problems
- Liver damage
- Nerve damage
- Cognitive impairment
- High blood pressure
If you have become dependent on alcohol, you should seek professional help to overcome your addiction. Quitting on your own can carry serious health threats due to withdrawal symptoms. Our medication-assisted detox program serves as the first step in your recovery process. Additionally, Bayview Recovery also offers numerous choices for residential or outpatient treatment.
Alcohol and Young Adults
More than 20% of young adults ages 12 to 17 used alcohol in 2018, and that number climbs to 73% for adults ages 18 to 25, according to the National Survey of Drug Use and Health. The high prevalence of alcohol and young adults underscores the need for intervention for these age groups. Fortunately, there are many great substance abuse treatment programs, such as those at Bayview Recovery, where young adults can work toward sobriety.
Signs of Alcoholism in Young Adults
Young adults may turn to alcohol to fit in with their peers or as an escape from stress at home, work, or school. Family members and friends often wonder how to tell when loved ones need help.
Although some people find a way to hide the symptoms of alcohol abuse from their friends and family, there are signs still present. Signs of alcoholism in young adults may include:
- Managing pressure: Drinking to cope with everyday pressures is a common sign of alcoholism in young adults.
- Obsession with drinking: Frequent, copious drinking is a common trend for alcohol and young adults with an addiction. Young people with alcohol abuse disorders crave alcohol and want to drink all the time. Help is available at our alcohol addiction rehab center.
- Changes in behavior: A change in behavior while drinking often indicates alcohol addiction. This includes aggressive behavior, belligerence, and unstable emotions.
Importance of Treatment
Alcohol and young adults create volatile situations. Alcoholism can ruin relationships and cause you to isolate yourself from those who care about you the most. When you finally decide to reach out for help, the experienced therapists at Bayview Recovery can help you design a customized recovery program that gives you your best chance at long-lasting sobriety.
For those with severe alcohol abuse disorders, our extended care addiction program provides long-term support in the form of accountability, education, and healing.
Alcohol Abuse Rehab Center in Tacoma, WA
Alcohol addiction and abuse does not have to take over your life. Get help today. In addition to alcohol addiction treatment, we also offer programs for other substance abuse issues such as:
- Heroin Addiction Rehab Center
- Cocaine Addiction Rehab Center
- Meth Addiction Rehab Center
- Methadone Addiction Rehab Center
After you decide to seek help, you may feel apprehensive. However, you can not let fear stand between you and the happy, productive life you deserve. Contact Bayview Recovery at 855.478.3650 for more information or to sign up for our recovery program today.