Alcohol is an integral part of our society, despite the risk of addiction and harm it can cause. It is at every social event, sports game, restaurant, bar, and outdoor event all across America. Many people who recover from drug addiction wonder, can you drink alcohol in recovery from drugs? It is a complicated question to answer and is different for each person. If you are in a drug addiction treatment program, you should abstain from alcohol during treatment and for 6-12 months after to limit the risk of relapse.
At Swift River, we understand how many people recovering from drug addiction may worry about what will happen if they drink alcohol. Our treatment programs work to build patients’ confidence and self-control in managing their cravings so they can confidently say no to their drug of choice. To learn more about whether recovering drug addicts should drink alcohol, reach out to our knowledgeable team today by calling 413.570.9698 for more information.
Can You Drink Alcohol in Recovery from Drugs?
Can recovering drug addicts drink alcohol? There is a growing debate on whether men and women who recover from drug addiction can drink alcohol and still avoid drugs. As they return to their lives after treatment and hang out with friends, the chances of being around alcohol at some point are pretty high. They may worry that by taking one drink, they will have cravings for their drug of choice or begin to abuse alcohol as a substitute.
Some men and women are able to have a drink with friends or during business meetings without causing any cravings for opioids, meth, or other drugs. They can safely consume alcohol without fear of relapse. Those with an underlying mental health disorder are more likely to relapse or abuse alcohol for its euphoric effects. Men and women struggling with depression, anxiety, or PTSD don’t care where the relief comes from as long as it happens.
At Swift River, we support men and women from all walks of life who are struggling with drug addiction. Our programs teach patients how to manage their symptoms and cravings and build their confidence in staying sober long after they graduate from their recovery program.
What Makes Someone More Susceptible to Addiction?
Addiction is a mental health disorder with internal and external factors that can make someone more susceptible to addiction than others. While some people seem immune to addiction, others can form uncontrollable cravings just after one use.
Here are some of the reasons that can make someone more susceptible to addiction:
- A person with a history of addiction in their family will have a genetic disposition to addiction and will feel more intense cravings. They have more opioid cells receptor and will have a harder time resisting their cravings even after a few times.
- Men and women who experience emotional, physical, and sexual abuse are more likely to form an addiction to drugs. The abuse can come from parents, siblings, spouses, friends, school bullies, and co-workers.
- The COVID-19 pandemic caught a lot of people off-guard, and drug addiction cases spiked. Pandemics and other natural disasters, wartime, and political upheaval can lead to depression, anxiety, and addiction.
- Members of the LGBTQIA+ community have a high rate of addiction due to the confusion and stigma of not conforming to gender or sexual norms.
Can you drink alcohol in recovery from drugs? This is a question many people ask in recovery from drug addiction. The answer is different for every person. One important fact to remember is drinking alcohol can lead some people to crave drugs they have previously abused.
Get Effective Addiction Treatment at Swift River – Massachusetts
At Swift River, we boost patients’ confidence in managing their cravings no matter their situation. Many former patients can safely have a drink and not risk any relapse. We employ a wide range of evidence-backed behavioral and holistic therapies for a whole-person treatment experience. These therapies include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Motivational interviewing
- Creative writing
- Group and individual therapy
- Family therapy
If you or a loved one is struggling with drug addiction, pick up the phone and call 413.570.9698 today to discover all of the benefits of our addiction treatment facility, or fill out our online form and let us get back to you.
