Alcoholism - Treatment for Alcoholism

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Newer antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are proving to be very useful complements to AA or counseling sessions. Anti-anxiety medications are also available for people with anxiety.

People with alcoholism and more severe problems such as schizophrenia or severe bipolar disorder may need more intense help. One 2002 study also suggested that women and men with dual diagnoses may need different treatment approaches. Women were more bothered by their psychiatric problems and with social relationships than men were and were more likely to have a history of abuse. Women also had fewer episodes of criminal activity.

Review Date: 12/03/2006
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital