In honor of Alcohol Awareness Month this April, we are kicking off a five-part series exploring all-things alcohol. Today we are joined by Kori Turner, LPC, LAC, ADS, a highly respected Licensed Addiction Counselor and therapist-trainer based in Colorado. We sat down with Kori for a deep dive into alcohol use disorder, how to know if we "have it", can problem drinkers be "fixed," and much more. We also unpacked the history of alcohol treatment in America, examined treatment options available today and their effectiveness, and explored initial steps someone can take to kickstart the healing process. Kori provided some incredible recources for further information and exploration (listed below), and encourages any individuals with drinking-related issues to seek help now. Education, guidelines for drinking, and support tools: Rethinking Drinking Directory of peer support groups for changing drug and alcohol use: Faces and Voices of Recovery Screening, Intervention and Referral: Substance Abuse, and Mental Health Services Administration Takeaways - Addiction is a chronic brain disease that affects the reward pathway in the brain. - Alcohol use disorder is a clinical diagnostic term for alcohol addiction. - The brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter that gives a sense of pleasure and motivates behavior. - Addiction can lead to a chronic dopamine deficient state, affecting emotions, behaviors, and relationships. - Alcohol use disorder is increasing, and there is a strong correlation between addiction and mental health issues. - The medical disease model is used to understand addiction and inform treatment recommendations. - Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) provides social support for recovery, while clinical treatment focuses on the medical model. - Labels like 'alcoholic' can be reductionistic and may not be embraced by everyone in recovery. Alcohol use disorder is a spectrum, and individuals do not have to identify as an alcoholic to seek help and make changes in their relationship with alcohol. - Setting goals and working with a professional can help individuals develop a treatment plan that suits their needs and preferences. - The future of alcohol use disorder treatment may involve psychedelic-assisted therapy and advancements in understanding the brain. - Resources such as the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) and Screening and Brief Intervention (SBIRT) can provide valuable information and support. Connect with Us! - Like, follow, and share "The Live Deep Podcast" - Follow Altum Fitness on social media here - Join our Altum Fitness community/app here: Join us weekly as we conquer habits and build our strongest bodies, and healthiest minds. #AlcoholAbuse #Addiction #AUD #MentalHealth #AlcoholAwareness #SoberLiving #LiveDeep