In recent years there have been a lot of progressive changes in the way that we approach alcoholism and treat the illness. Research about addiction provides experts new ideas about what causes alcoholism and the best methods for helping people recover. Scientific advancements in alcoholism are shedding light on how we can use new techniques to reduce the level of alcoholism in the U.S.
Following are 5 Scientific Advancements
1. Medication and Vaccines
Researchers are studying and experimenting with new types of medications and vaccines that may reduce the effects of alcohol so that people are less likely to binge drink. Anti-alcohol drugs like Revia and Vivitrol are showing potential as an effective treatment for alcoholism and symptoms of alcoholism.
2. Using Technology for Treatment
Studies are now revealing that the use of digital tools can be helpful in alcoholism recoveries such as online support groups, recovery apps, and internet-based interventions. Technology can provide a useful supplement to regular treatment for addiction.
3. Health and Alcohol Consumption
It was long believed that small amounts of alcohol could beneficial to your health and help you live longer. New studies have proven that this is a myth and any amount of alcohol consumption is actually harmful to your health.
4. Studying the Brain and Alcohol
Researchers have found that certain areas of the brain are linked to alcohol consumption especially with high connectivity in the reward center. This may help provide insight into how people may be more inclined to drink due to the structure of their brain.
5. Genetic Links in Alcoholism and Mental Illness
New studies are revealing that the same genetic factors associated with mental illness can also be linked to alcoholism. People with this genetic susceptibility may struggle more with co-occurring disorders that contribute to their substance abuse.
As scientific research continues, addiction treatment and our understanding of alcoholism along with symptoms of alcoholism will only keep growing and evolving to help people more effectively.
