Tools for recovery of AUD.

Using tools to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD) is crucial for several reasons:
  1. Comprehensive Support: Tools such as therapy, medication, and support groups provide a multifaceted approach to treatment, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of AUD.
  2. Personalized Treatment: These tools allow for individualized treatment plans tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of each person, enhancing the effectiveness of the intervention.
  3. Improved Outcomes: Evidence-based tools, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and medications like naltrexone and acamprosate, have been proven to increase the likelihood of successful recovery and sustained abstinence.
  4. Relapse Prevention: Tools such as relapse prevention training and continuous support systems help individuals develop coping strategies and resilience, reducing the risk of relapse.
  5. Holistic Care: Combining tools from different domains (medical, psychological, social) ensures a holistic approach, addressing co-occurring disorders, improving overall well-being, and fostering a supportive recovery environment.
Overall, using a variety of tools enhances the efficacy of treatment for alcohol use disorder, providing comprehensive and sustained support for individuals on their path to recovery.
Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT) 
Here's a link to a free 26 week curse and complete description of DBT - https://dialecticalbehaviortherapy.com/mindfulness/observing/​
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy designed to help individuals manage intense emotions and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Originally created by psychologist Marsha M. Linehan to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT has since been adapted for various other mental health issues, including substance use disorders and depression.
Key Components:
  1. Individual Therapy: Personalized sessions focused on addressing specific issues and applying DBT skills.
  2. Group Skills Training: Group sessions teaching skills in mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance.
  3. Phone Coaching: Real-time support from therapists to apply skills during crises.
  4. Therapist Consultation Team: Support system for therapists to ensure effective treatment.
Core Principles:
  • Dialectics: Balancing acceptance and change to help clients manage and improve their emotional and behavioral responses.
  • Behavioral Strategies: Identifying and modifying negative behavior patterns.
Goals:
  • Improve emotional regulation
  • Enhance interpersonal relationships
  • Increase distress tolerance
  • Foster mindfulness
DBT is effective in reducing self-destructive behaviors and improving overall mental health by teaching practical, actionable skills.
Are you constantly navigating through a maze of overwhelming thoughts? Dealing with anxiety over daily decisions? Or perhaps seeking a way to live more fully, beyond the shadows of worry and uncertainty? It's a common human experience to face such mental challenges, but when they start to dominate your life, finding effective strategies to manage them becomes essential.
Introducing the "CBT + DBT + ACT Workbook" by Emily Jefferson, a comprehensive guide designed to empower you to navigate through these mental hurdles with grace and resilience. This collection is more than just a series of books; it's a journey towards a more balanced and fulfilling life.
**DOWNLOAD:: CBT + DBT + ACT Workbook -- Your Guide to a Balanced Mind and a Fulfilling Life*
Quitzilla: Bad Habit Tracker ​
Apple - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/quitzilla-bad-habit-tracker/id1533076568
Google Play - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.despdev.quitzilla&hl=en_US&gl=US 
Medications for AUD - Available from Monument - https://joinmonument.com/  - Online nonjudgmental AUD individual and group therapy an dmedications. 
Approved medications for Alcohol Use Disorder
Mayo Clinic - Naltrexone - https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/naltrexone-oral-route/description/drg-20068408

​Mayo Clinic - Acamprosate - www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/acamprosate-oral-route/description/drg-20066802
Acamprosate helps balance the neurotransmitter called Gaba - What is the main role of GABA? Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an amino acid that functions as the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter for the central nervous system (CNS). It functions to reduce neuronal excitability by inhibiting nerve transmission. The chemicals in alcohol actually reduce the production of GABA in the brain and throughout the body. When people do not have enough GABA to regulate their emotions, they often experience more mental health issues such as stress, depression, and paranoia.

​Mayo Clinic - Disulfiram - ​https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/disulfiram-oral-route/description/drg-20063488

Urge Surfing


https://www.therapistaid.com/therapy-worksheet/urge-surfing-handout

​Urge surfing is a technique for managing one’s own unwanted behaviors. Rather than giving in to an urge, a person learns to ride it out, like a surfer riding a wave. After a short time, the urge will pass on its own.