Alcohol abuse and addiction has been a problem in the United States since the country’s founding. However, only the past several decades have seen significant advancement in the treatment and care of those who suffer from this insidious disease. In order to find alcohol treatment help in the 21st century, it helps to understand the history of treating the condition.
The Prohibition Age and the Rise of Alcoholism Treatment
At the end of the 1930’s prohibition was just winding down. It was a failed experiment created by the government to help its citizen protect themselves from their own behavior. In 1937, a doctor from Massachusetts named E.M. Jelenik founded the Research Council on Problems of Alcohol. It was the first attempt in the U.S. to classify the problems with alcohol consumption and how to treat the condition. So influential was the work of Dr. Jelenik that his research would become a part of the early materials distributed by the World Health Organization (WHO) where much of it is still recognized to this day.
Alcoholics Anonymous and the 12-Step Program
In 1934, a man named Bill Wilson saw his career thrown into ruins because of his inability to control his drinking. Unwilling to sit idly by and let other people go through the same experience, Wilson developed a spiritual solution to help to him achieve and maintain sobriety. This organization would come to be known as Alcoholics Anonymous, and to this day has helped countless men and women get the support they needed before, during and after alcoholism treatment.
AA has remained a controversial force in the recovery world, as many do not respond well to the faith-based concepts put forth by the organization. However, just as many rely on their weekly meetings as a means of staying the course of recovery through the sponsorship and support of other members.
Holistic Care and Advances in the Treatment of Alcoholism
It is ironic that as we move forward with the 21st century, some of the newest advances in alcoholism treatment
are actually ancient Eastern practices that have been used for thousands of years. More and more, alcohol and drug treatment centers are using holistic practices such as yoga, meditation and acupuncture as a means of helping their patients
If you are struggling with alcoholism, you need professional help. Call our confidential helpline today at and speak with one of our representatives. They are standing by to get you the help you need!
