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Alcoholism/Alcohol Use Disorder

Wyckoff Wellness Center Michael P. Gentile, MD Our Services Alcoholism/Alcohol Use Disorder
Michael P. Gentile, MD - - Board Certified Psychiatrist

Wyckoff Wellness Center

Michael P. Gentile, MD

Board Certified Psychiatrist located in Wyckoff, NJ

If cutting back on drinking seems difficult, cravings are hard to control, or alcohol is disrupting your work, relationships, or health, you may be struggling with more than a habit; it could be alcohol use disorder, a condition that impacts both the body and mind. At Wyckoff Wellness Center in Wyckoff, New Jersey, Michael Gentile, MD, provides compassionate, evidence-based care. He can help you manage alcohol use disorder and regain control of your life. While recovery takes time, support and treatment can make lasting change possible. Call today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What is alcohol use disorder (AUD)?

Alcohol use disorder, often referred to as alcoholism, is a medical condition that involves the inability to control or stop drinking despite negative consequences. It goes beyond casual or social drinking, affecting a person’s physical health, relationships, responsibilities, and overall quality of life. 

AUD exists on a spectrum, ranging from mild to severe, and can progress over time if left untreated.

How is alcohol use disorder diagnosed?

AUD is diagnosed using specific criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). Dr. Gentile may ask questions about your drinking habits, cravings, attempts to cut back, and the impact alcohol has on your daily life. \

Signs of AUD may include:

  • Drinking more or longer than intended
  • Difficulty reducing alcohol use
  • Devoting a large portion of time to drinking or recovering afterward
  • Experiencing strong cravings
  • Continuing to drink despite negative effects on body, mood, or relationships

A diagnosis typically depends on how many criteria you meet. The more symptoms present, the more severe the disorder.

What are the health dangers of alcohol use disorder?

Chronic alcohol misuse can cause serious and sometimes irreversible health issues, affecting your life in the following areas:

Physically

AUD increases your risk of liver disease, high blood pressure, heart problems, pancreatitis, and weakened immune function. It’s also a leading contributor to certain cancers, including those of the mouth, throat, liver, and breast. 

Mentally

AUD can worsen depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric conditions. 

Socially

AUD can strain relationships, harm work performance, and lead to accidents or legal problems. 

In addition, left untreated, alcoholism can significantly shorten life expectancy.

How is alcohol use disorder treated?

AUD is best treated with a personalized, comprehensive approach. Traditional methods include therapy, counseling, support groups, and sometimes medication to reduce cravings or withdrawal symptoms. 

At Wyckoff Wellness Center, Dr. Gentile is known for his unique and progressive treatment strategies. He supports the use of medical cannabis to help manage symptoms, ketamine infusions to address underlying mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety, and, when legalized, psychedelics combined with therapy to promote deeper healing. 

These innovative treatments, used alongside counseling and lifestyle support, aim to reduce alcohol dependence and improve overall mental health and quality of life. 

Contact Wyckoff Wellness Center today to receive compassionate care and effective treatment. Call or book an appointment online now.

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