Find Therapists in Chesapeake, VA

Welcome to Chesapeake, Virginia, a city brimming with natural wonders and historical significance. From the serene depths of the Great Dismal Swamp, a muse to renowned writers like Edgar Allan Poe and Harriet Beecher Stowe, to the echoes of the past whispered by the Chesapeake and Albemarle Canal, completed in 1859, this city embodies a rich tapestry of culture and heritage.

However, amidst the beauty and history, there lies a prevalent issue that extends far beyond the borders of Chesapeake - alcohol use disorder. Statistics paint a sobering picture: from 2016 to 2020, approximately 16% of Virginians aged 18 and older reported binge drinking, with 6% engaging in heavy drinking. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report highlights a significant increase in total drinks consumed by Virginian adults engaging in binge drinking from 2011 to 2017.

The impact trickles down to the youth as well, with 25% of Virginia high school students reporting current alcohol use, and 12% admitting to binge drinking. These numbers persist despite a stark awareness - 44% of Virginians perceive binge drinking once or twice a week as a high-risk behavior.

In light of these challenges, the importance of accessible mental health resources cannot be overstated. For those in Chesapeake grappling with alcohol use disorder, seeking support from Chesapeake VA therapist or a “therapist near me” can be a crucial step towards recovery. Moreover, the advent of online therapy presents a promising avenue for Virginians statewide to access professional help conveniently and confidentially. Whether it's through in-person sessions or virtual consultations with therapist Virginia, support is within reach, offering a beacon of hope in the journey towards healing and wellness.

Did Virginia liquor laws change?

Effective July 1, 2023, Virginia liquor laws did undergo a few changes. The legislation passed during the 2023 session brought about several adjustments impacting the operation of the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority (ABC), its licensees, and applicants for ABC licenses.

Some notable changes include:

• The establishment of guidelines for the display of alcoholic beverages near non-alcoholic beverages with similar branding to address consumer confusion or appeal to underage audiences. 
• Employment restrictions were relaxed to streamline the hiring process for individuals with felony convictions, provided they meet specific criteria. 
• Adjustments were made to license fees for seasonal marketplace licenses
• Modifications were implemented regarding the jurisdiction and composition of local alcohol safety action boards. 

These changes reflect ongoing efforts to adapt liquor laws to evolving societal needs and ensure responsible consumption while supporting economic growth and innovation in Virginia.

What does 7 days of no alcohol do?

Abstaining from alcohol for 7 days can yield numerous benefits for both the body and mind. While the first 24 hours may not yield noticeable changes, as most individuals can navigate a day without alcohol, the body gradually starts eliminating alcohol from the system at a rate of one unit per hour. However, you may begin to observe several positive changes over the following days.

Improved Sleep Quality 

Giving up alcohol for 7 days can lead to better sleep patterns and improved overall sleep quality. Alcohol disrupts sleep cycles and can contribute to insomnia or poor sleep quality, so abstaining from alcohol can help restore healthy sleep patterns.

Increased Energy Levels

Without the depressant effects of alcohol, you may notice an increase in energy levels and overall vitality. Alcohol can cause fatigue and lethargy, so eliminating it from your diet can result in feeling more alert and energetic throughout the day.

Better Hydration

Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases urine production and can lead to dehydration. By abstaining from alcohol for a week, you give your body a chance to rehydrate properly, leading to improved overall hydration levels and better functioning of bodily systems.

Clearer Skin

Alcohol consumption can dehydrate the skin and exacerbate conditions like acne or rosacea. By cutting out alcohol for 7 days, you may notice clearer, healthier-looking skin as your body rehydrates and inflammation decreases.

Reduction in Overall Calorie Intake

Alcoholic beverages often contain a significant number of calories, especially when mixed with sugary mixers or consumed in large quantities. By abstaining from alcohol for a week, you can reduce your overall calorie intake, which may support weight management and improve overall health.

Liver Repair

The liver plays a crucial role in metabolizing alcohol and detoxifying the body. Excessive alcohol consumption can damage liver cells and lead to conditions like fatty liver disease or cirrhosis. Giving up alcohol for a week allows your liver to repair itself and regenerate healthy liver tissue, reducing the risk of long-term liver damage.

Lowered Risk of Long-Term Health Problems 

Chronic heavy drinking is associated with an increased risk of several long-term health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, certain cancers, and mental health disorders. Abstaining from alcohol for a week can lower your overall risk of developing these conditions and promote better long-term health outcomes.

In conclusion, committing to a 7-day alcohol-free period can yield a myriad of benefits for both your body and mind. By eliminating alcohol from your diet, you can experience improved sleep quality, increased energy levels, better hydration, clearer skin, and a reduction in overall calorie intake. Furthermore, giving your liver a break from processing alcohol allows it to repair itself, lowering the risk of long-term health problems associated with heavy drinking. Embracing this temporary change can not only lead to immediate improvements in well-being but also pave the way for better long-term health outcomes. For those seeking additional support during their journey, halfway houses in Chesapeake VA, can provide valuable resources and assistance.

What is considered a heavy drinker?

The definition of a heavy drinker can vary depending on factors such as gender and age. However, generally speaking, a heavy drinker is someone who regularly consumes alcohol in quantities that exceed recommended limits. 

For men, heavy drinking is typically defined as consuming more than 15 drinks per week, with each drink containing about 14 grams of pure alcohol. For women, heavy drinking is usually defined as consuming more than 8 drinks per week. Additionally, binge drinking, which involves consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short period, is also considered a form of heavy drinking. If you find yourself meeting any of the above criteria, AA Meetings Chesapeake VA, can help.

Although the above defines what a heavy drinker is, you may be wondering, “Am I an alcoholic?” In the DSM-5 manual, alcohol use disorder is defined as a pattern of drinking that has led to significant impairment or distress. To be diagnosed with an AUD,

One must meet at least 2 of the following criteria during the same 12-month period:

1. You have difficulty controlling your alcohol intake and drink more or longer than you intend.
2. Although you want to cut back on your drinking, you struggle and any attempts end in failure.
3. You spend a lot of time obtaining alcohol, drinking alcohol, or recovering from alcohol
4. You are experiencing cravings and a strong desire to drink
5. You’re drinking habit is affecting your responsibilities at school, work, or home
6. You keep drinking even though your drunken behaviors are causing problems in your social life
7. You’ve begun limiting or completely giving up your social, recreational, or work activities
8. You’re continuously drinking in dangerous situations (like driving or manual labor)
9. You keep drinking even though you know it’s causing or exacerbating physical or psychological issues
10. Tolerance, as defined by either of the following:
11. You need to drink more to achieve the same effect as before
12. You feel less drunk with the same amount of alcohol
13. Withdrawal, as manifested by either of the following:
14. You’re experiencing classic withdrawal symptoms
15. You’re drinking alcohol or other substances to relieve your withdrawal symptoms

Furthermore, alcohol use disorder is described in terms of mild (2-3 symptoms), moderate (4-5 symptoms), or severe (6 or more symptoms). If you have been diagnosed with an alcohol use disorder and need additional help. You will likely be referred to Drug Treatment Centers in Virginia for guidance and support.

Find experienced Chesapeake VA therapist, specializing in alcohol-related challenges.

As we immerse ourselves in the captivating allure of Chesapeake, Virginia, it's essential to acknowledge the shadows that loom amid its beauty. Alcohol use disorder casts a profound shadow, with statistics revealing its pervasive impact on individuals across the state. The fact that the rate of binge drinking among high school students (12%) is not much different than that of adults 18 and over (16%) is disparaging as binge drinking can often lead to additional problems over time. Despite this, there's a glimmer of hope shining through the darkness.

With the support of Chesapeake VA therapist, individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder can find solace and guidance on their journey to recovery. Furthermore, the advent of Norfolk VA therapist offers a beacon of accessibility and confidentiality, ensuring that professional help is within reach for all who seek it.

As we navigate the changes in liquor laws and embark on personal quests for sobriety, let us remember the resilience and determination that define our journeys. Through the support of mental health professionals and the strength of our own resolve, we can overcome the challenges of alcohol use disorder and stride confidently towards a future of health, vitality, and renewed purpose.

Resources:

• One week alcohol-free - what's happening in your body?
• Recognition and Management of Withdrawal Delirium (Delirium Tremens)
• How Long Does It Take to Detox from Alcohol?
• Alcoholism Clinical Presentation
• ABC Laws Effective July 1
• Alcohol_Related_Death_VA_Report.pdf