Relationships are the cornerstone of our lives, offering companionship, support, and love. However, they can also be complex and challenging, especially when influenced by external factors such as alcohol use disorder (AUD) and eating disorders (ED). Integrative Life Center offers comprehensive care through our dual diagnosis program. Co-occurring disorders like alcohol addiction and eating disorders often go hand in hand. Understanding the relationship between these disorders can help a person find their way to recovery. Through this journey, we aim to shed light on the challenges individuals face and provide insights for fostering healthier connections.
Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
AUD is a chronic relapsing brain disorder characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse consequences. It affects people from all walks of life and can significantly impact relationships. Individuals with AUD may experience communication breakdowns, trust issues, and difficulties with conflict resolution, leading to strain in their interpersonal connections. At our holistic alcohol rehab center, we’ve witnessed firsthand the impact of AUD on individuals and their relationships. Here are some of the criteria for alcohol use disorder we regularly observe:- Escalation in Quantity or Frequency: Consuming larger amounts of alcohol or drinking more frequently than before.
- Increased Tolerance: Developing a heightened tolerance, requiring larger amounts of alcohol to achieve the same effects.
- Loss of Control: Struggling to regulate or cut down on drinking, even when there is a genuine desire to do so.
- Shift in Priorities: Losing interest in activities that were once enjoyable, choosing to prioritize drinking instead.
- Secrecy and Concealment: Hiding the frequency or extent of alcohol consumption from friends and family, indicating a potential awareness of the issue.
Understanding Eating Disorders (ED)
Eating disorders include a range of conditions characterized by abnormal eating habits and a preoccupation with body weight and shape. Common types include:- Anorexia nervosa
- Bulimia nervosa
- Binge-eating disorder
Co-Occurrence: Alcohol Use Disorder and Eating Disorders
Research shows that the co-occurrence of eating disorders and alcoholism is not uncommon. Because these are two high impact disorders, symptoms and behaviors from both disorders may exacerbate each other. The compounding effects can create additional challenges in seeking help and navigating relationships, underscoring the importance of understanding and addressing both disorders holistically. We acknowledge the intricate interconnection between alcohol and eating disorders, recognizing the potential challenges this dual diagnosis presents to relationships. We utilize a comprehensive and integrated approach to address both AUD and EDs for more effective and holistic addiction treatment.Impact of Dual Diagnosis on Relationships
Dual diagnosis refers to the co-occurrence of alcohol use disorder and eating disorders, which can significantly impact various types of relationships. Here’s how different relationships may be affected by such a dual diagnosis:Romantic Relationships
Difficulties with trust can arise when one partner engages in secretive behaviors related to alcohol or disordered eating. Communication breakdowns may occur when one partner struggles with denial or refuses to seek help for their issues. Additionally, emotional intimacy can suffer as individuals prioritize their disorders over the relationship, leading to further strain and potential negative consequences.Familial Relationships
It’s natural for family members to feel frustrated and helpless while trying to support a loved one dealing with dual diagnosis. The concern for the individual’s health and well-being may lead to conflicts within the family. The dynamics of support among family members may become strained as they try to manage resources that are already stretched thin.Friendships
It can be challenging for friends to grasp the intricacies of dual diagnosis, which can lead to emotions of frustration or abandonment. Those with dual diagnosis may isolate themselves or participate in risky behaviors, which can affect their ability to engage in social activities. If boundaries are not established and respected, supportive friendships may become strained.Professional Relationships
Dual diagnosis can also have an impact on professional relationships. Individuals with dual diagnosis may struggle to maintain employment due to their disorders. Stigma and discrimination in the workplace can also lead to further stress and exacerbation of symptoms. Professional relationships with colleagues and supervisors may become strained if the individual’s performance or behavior is affected by their disorders.Seeking Help and Treatment Options
Recognizing when help is needed is the first step toward healing. At our alcohol rehab retreat, we offer comprehensive treatment options for alcohol and eating disorders tailored to individual needs:- Polyvagal Theory Therapy
- Internal Family Systems
- Narrative Therapy
- Motivational Interviewing
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy
- Brainspotting
- Trauma-Induced Sexual Addiction Therapy (TINSA®)
- Yoga
- Mindfulness and Meditation
- Art Therapy
- Music Therapy
- AcuDetox
- Dance and Movement
- Martial Arts Therapy
- Equine Therapy
- Drum Circle
