Alcohol Archives - Sanctuary Treatment Center

Lexapro and Alcohol Interactions

Written by John Ingham on February 13, 2026. Posted in Alcohol, Antidepressants.

Why This Combination Matters

Lexapro is one of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants in the United States. Because it’s not a sedative and doesn’t create a “high,” many people assume drinking alcohol while taking Lexapro is harmless. In reality, mixing Lexapro and alcohol can worsen depression, increase side effects, and interfere with how the medication works.

At Sanctuary Treatment Center, we often see people whose mental health treatment becomes less effective because substances like alcohol or cannabis are quietly undermining their medication.

Understanding the interaction matters, especially if you’re trying to stabilize mood or prevent relapse.

What Is Lexapro?

Lexapro is the brand name for escitalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, helping regulate mood, anxiety, and emotional balance.

Lexapro is commonly prescribed for
• Major depressive disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Panic disorder
• Social anxiety disorder

Unlike stimulant or sedative medications, SSRIs work gradually over weeks to rebalance brain chemistry.

What Happens When You Mix Lexapro and Alcohol

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant. Lexapro is not a depressant, but it alters serotonin signaling. When combined, several problems can occur.

1. Increased Depression and Anxiety

Alcohol lowers inhibitions at first but ultimately worsens mood. It disrupts serotonin and dopamine balance, which can directly counteract Lexapro’s purpose.

People may feel
• Increased sadness the next day
• Heightened anxiety
• Emotional instability
• Irritability

Over time, alcohol can make antidepressants feel like they “aren’t working.”

2. Enhanced Side Effects

Mixing Lexapro and alcohol can intensify side effects such as
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Impaired coordination
• Slowed reaction time

This increases the risk of accidents and unsafe decision-making.

3. Reduced Medication Effectiveness

Alcohol interferes with consistent serotonin regulation. If someone drinks regularly, they may never experience the full therapeutic benefit of Lexapro.

4. Increased Risk of Risky Behavior

Alcohol lowers inhibition. Combined with mood instability, this can increase impulsive behaviors, including self-harm risk in vulnerable individuals.

The FDA advises caution when combining SSRIs and alcohol due to these compounded effects.

Is It Ever Safe to Drink on Lexapro?

Some prescribing physicians may say that occasional light drinking is unlikely to cause severe harm. However, safety depends on:

• Your dosage
• Your diagnosis
• Your mental health history
• Whether alcohol has been a coping tool
• Co-occurring substance use concerns

For individuals in early recovery or with a history of alcohol misuse, drinking while on Lexapro significantly increases relapse risk.

Lexapro and Weed: What About Cannabis?

Many people assume marijuana is safer than alcohol while taking antidepressants. The interaction is less studied than alcohol, but risks still exist.

How Lexapro and Weed Interact

Cannabis affects the endocannabinoid system, which interacts indirectly with serotonin signaling. Combining Lexapro and weed can lead to:

• Increased anxiety or paranoia
• Emotional blunting
• Dizziness
• Impaired judgment
• Worsening depressive symptoms

Some people report that marijuana temporarily reduces anxiety. Others experience heightened panic or mood swings — especially with higher-potency THC products.

Cannabis and Motivation

Lexapro is intended to help stabilize mood and improve daily functioning. Regular marijuana use can reduce motivation and emotional responsiveness, sometimes masking whether the medication is truly helping.

In some cases, cannabis use contributes to what feels like antidepressant “failure.”

Risks of Mixing Lexapro With High-Potency THC

Modern cannabis products often contain significantly higher THC levels than in previous decades. High-potency products can increase:

• Panic attacks
• Depersonalization
• Mood instability
• Cognitive fog

For individuals being treated for anxiety or depression, these effects can destabilize progress.

Can Lexapro and Alcohol or Weed Increase Suicide Risk?

Alcohol use is strongly associated with increased suicide risk, particularly in individuals with depression. Cannabis has also been linked to worsening depressive symptoms in some populations.

Combining substances with antidepressants can create emotional volatility, especially during dosage changes.

If someone experiences worsening mood, hopelessness, or suicidal thoughts while mixing substances and Lexapro, medical evaluation is critical.

When Mixing Becomes a Pattern

Sometimes alcohol or weed use starts casually but becomes a way to “smooth out” medication side effects. Warning signs include:

• Drinking to manage anxiety
• Using marijuana to sleep instead of addressing insomnia medically
• Feeling emotionally flat without substances
• Increasing use over time

When substances become part of managing mental health, the line between treatment and self-medication can blur.

How Sanctuary Approaches Co-Occurring Mental Health and Substance Use

Sanctuary Treatment Center specializes in treating substance use disorders alongside underlying depression and anxiety.

Our approach includes:

• Psychiatric medication evaluation
• Substance use stabilization
• Therapy focused on coping skills
• Relapse prevention planning
• Education about medication-substance interactions

Mental health medications work best when the brain is not being regularly disrupted by alcohol or cannabis.

Can you drink occasionally on Lexapro?

Some providers allow light drinking, but alcohol can worsen depression and reduce medication effectiveness. It’s safest to discuss directly with your prescriber.

Does weed cancel out Lexapro?

It doesn’t “cancel” it, but cannabis can interfere with mood stability and may increase anxiety or depressive symptoms.

Is Lexapro dangerous with alcohol?

It can increase drowsiness, emotional instability, and impaired judgment. For people with depression, the combination increases risk.

Should I stop Lexapro if I want to drink?

Never stop Lexapro abruptly. Sudden discontinuation can cause withdrawal symptoms. Always consult a physician before making medication changes.

Sources

National Library of Medicine. (2024). Escitalopram: MedlinePlus drug information. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a603005.html
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Lexapro (escitalopram) prescribing information (label). https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/021323s055%2C021365s039lbl.pdf
National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). DailyMed: LEXAPRO (escitalopram oxalate) tablet labeling. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=23ff2d62-b5ff-4837-8b54-439a65609d90
Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Escitalopram (oral route): Description. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/escitalopram-oral-route/description/drg-20063707
Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Antidepressants and alcohol: What’s the concern? https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressants-and-alcohol/faq-20058231
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (n.d.). Alcohol’s effects on health. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2025, May 8). Alcohol-medication interactions: Potentially dangerous mixes. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/health-professionals-communities/core-resource-on-alcohol/alcohol-medication-interactions-potentially-dangerous-mixes
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (n.d.). Harmful interactions: Mixing alcohol with medicines. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/harmful-interactions-mixing-alcohol-with-medicines
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, February 15). About cannabis. https://www.cdc.gov/cannabis/about/index.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Cannabis and mental health. https://www.cdc.gov/cannabis/health-effects/mental-health.html

How Does Alcohol Affect Your Period (Menstrual Cycle)?

Written by Chandru on May 5, 2025. Posted in Alcohol.

Drinking alcohol regularly has various risks that can impact different areas of the body, cause high blood pressure, and increase risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Some people can also be at risk of developing alcohol dependence, which can lead to alcohol addiction. For women, drinking alcohol while on their menstrual cycle has all of these same risks, as well as affecting hormonal levels, which have different impacts on the reproductive system. Understanding how alcohol does affect your period and menstrual cycle can help you make wise choices when it comes to drinking.

What Is a Menstrual Cycle (Period)?

A menstrual cycle is the cycle most women experience that ranges between 21 and 35 days. Many people refer to this cycle as a period, but that is only part of the cycle, where women experience menstrual bleeding for three to seven days. The entire menstrual cycle goes through different stages, starting with a period as follows:

Menstruation: This stage, often called the period, is when the uterine lining starts to shed and menstrual bleeding begins as estrogen and progesterone levels decrease.
Follicular stage: After a woman’s period ends, she enters the follicular stage, where the lining of the uterus starts to thicken. While the lining begins to thicken in the ovaries, hormones cause follicles to grow, where at least one follicle will produce a mature egg.
Ovulation: About 14 days into the menstrual cycle, luteinizing hormone levels increase, causing the ovary to release the mature egg.
Luteal stage: The mature egg will travel down through the fallopian tubes and into the uterus. Estrogen and progesterone levels start to increase in case the woman becomes pregnant. If a sperm fertilizes the egg, it attaches to the wall of the uterus. If the egg is not fertilized, the menstrual cycle starts over with another period.

How Does a Menstrual Cycle Work?

A menstrual cycle works through the variation in the release of different hormones and their fluctuating levels over the entire cycle. Anything that affects and influences hormonal levels can have direct impacts on the menstrual cycle, including alcohol.

Does Alcohol Affect Your Period?

Alcohol can affect your period by causing hormonal imbalances, depending on the amount you drink. Alcohol can cause fluctuations in testosterone, luteinizing, and estrogen levels. For example, when someone binge drinks frequently, it causes a huge increase in estrogen levels. Other effects often include:

Worsening of symptoms: Menstrual symptoms can worsen from drinking alcohol during menstruation. Some women notice their cramps and bloating become more severe. Other women might experience sleep disturbances and more frequent mood swings.
Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic and causes dehydration for everyone. For women on their period, dehydration can worsen cramping and bloating and cause menstrual blood to thicken.
Heavier period: Another common effect of alcohol on the menstration cycle is causing heavier bleeding.

How Does Alcohol Affect Your Period?

How alcohol does affect your period is based on your alcohol use. The impacts on a woman’s period differ from one woman to another. Some women will experience irregular menstrual cycles, while others may notice their period stops entirely as estrogen and testosterone levels increase.

Other hormonal imbalances in the body also occur as a result of drinking, including fluctuations in luteinizing, androgen, and progesterone hormones. These fluctuations can have an impact on the different stages of the entire menstrual cycle.

How Long Can Alcohol Delay Your Period?

The delay on your period from alcohol will vary from individual to individual, based on factors such as one’s overall general health, metabolism rate, and amount and frequency of alcohol use. Some women may notice their cycles become irregular or even stop, while others may notice no changes at all. Other women’s periods may become heavier, and cramping and bloating worsen.

What Can I Drink During My Menstrual Cycle?

Since the menstrual cycle runs continuously, it is best to limit your alcohol intake and drink in moderation. According to the NIH, this translates to one drink or less per day and not more than seven drinks per week for women.

During your period, you should avoid alcohol entirely because it disrupts the normal hormonal changes occurring in the body. IF you feel the need to drink during your period, consider drinking mocktails instead. Many women also find that drinking mocktails during their period helps them avoid the peer pressure of being forced to drink alcohol.

The Connection Between Alcohol and Periods

Consuming alcohol during your period can have different effects based on the amount drunk and frequency, such as:

Irregular menstrual cycles
Period symptoms worsen
Periods become heavier
Periods to stop entirely
Spotting occurs after drinking outside periods
Excessive thickening of the uterine lining
Frequent hormonal imbalances

The Connection Between Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and Periods

For women struggling with AUD, their menstrual cycles can be all over the place. One month, they may experience more intense symptoms with excessive bleeding. Another month, they miss their period entirely. Some women even experience amenorrhea (the absence of periods) for several months or longer. Additionally, alcohol addiction in women increases the risk of infertility.

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center for Help

If you have an unhealthy relationship with alcohol and are noticing its impacts on your periods and menstrual cycle, help is available in Los Angeles at Sanctuary Treatment Center. Our caring and supportive team provides comprehensive, personalized care plans in a comfortable setting to help you overcome your alcohol dependence and addiction. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation and take the first steps to a brighter future.

Published: 5/5/2025

Difference Between Alcohol Poisoning vs Hangover

Written by Chandru on April 30, 2025. Posted in Alcohol.

When you drink a large amount of alcohol over a short period, like a night out on the town, you can feel its effects the next day. You might be experiencing a hangover, or you could be experiencing alcohol poisoning. Understanding the difference between alcohol poisoning vs. a hangover is important. In certain cases, alcohol poisoning requires immediate medical treatment.

What Is a Hangover?

A hangover is a group of symptoms that occurs after consuming an excessive amount of alcohol, and its effects are wearing off. Depending on the amount drunk, some people could still be considered to be legally intoxicated, even the next day, while experiencing a hangover.

Common Hangover Symptoms

Some of the more common symptoms of hangovers include:

Headache
Nausea
Dehydration
Vomiting
Dizziness
Sensitivity to sound and light
Body aches and pains
Fatigue
Difficulties concentrating and focusing
A sensation like the room is spinning
Balance and coordination difficulties

Why Do Hangovers Happen?

Hangovers occur as a result of excessive drinking and from the effects it has on the body, such as:

Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic and causes the body to flush out fluids more quickly, leading to dehydration.
Electrolyte imbalance: As a result of dehydration, the electrolytes become imbalanced and can cause hangover symptoms.
Blood sugar levels drop: As the body processes alcohol, it causes blood sugar levels to drop, which can cause dizziness and other hangover symptoms.
Consuming dark liquors: Dark liquors contain congeners, which can enhance the effects and symptoms of hangovers.
Build-up of acetaldehyde: As the body processes alcohol, it releases acetaldehyde, which is toxic and causes headaches, nausea, and vomiting.
Stomach irritation: Alcohol can irritate the stomach and contribute to nausea and vomiting.
Inflammation: Some people experience an inflammatory response when drinking, which triggers specific hangover symptoms.
Withdrawal: Alcohol forces the release of different neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, dopamine, and GABA. As alcohol levels drop, the brain tries to restore balance, causing withdrawal and related hangover symptoms.
Sleep disturbances: While someone can initially pass out from drinking excessively, as alcohol wears off, it can make it difficult to remain asleep, which can cause fatigue and a general sense of weakness.

What Is Alcohol Poisoning?

Alcohol poisoning occurs when someone drinks an excessive amount of alcohol in a short period. It often happens when someone binge drinks regularly, and there is more alcohol in the bloodstream than the body can process and handle.

The BAC (blood alcohol content) continues to rise because the liver cannot process and remove alcohol from the body fast enough. As the BAC levels increase, the excess alcohol causes the depressant effects to become more pronounced. Consequently, if BAC levels increase significantly while the person continues to drink, it causes alcohol poisoning, which is life-threatening and requires immediate medical treatment.

Common Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning

At BAC levels between 0.02% and 0.15%, the range of symptoms includes:

Lowered inhibitions
Feeling relaxed and euphoric
Impaired judgement
Slurred speech
Coordination impairments
Reduced reaction times
Slowed thinking
Mood changes
Nausea
Vomiting

These symptoms can cause a hangover later. If drinking continues and BAC levels reach 0.30%, common symptoms will include:

Confusion
Blackouts
Vomiting
Drowsiness
Difficulties remaining conscious
Seizures

At BAC levels between 0.30% and 0.40% or higher, alcohol poisoning is occurring. People will usually lose consciousness at this point, and could vomit while passed out. The depressant effects of alcohol are heightened as well and could cause respiratory distress and failure. The skin can appear blue or pale and will feel cold as the body temperature drops. Some people will also slip into a coma.

Key Differences Between Alcohol Poisoning vs. Hangover

It might not appear that there are many differences between alcohol poisoning vs. a hangover because they share similar symptoms. However, some key differences are:

Hangovers generally occur several hours after a night of heavy drinking and can last as long as 24 hours.
Alcohol poisoning usually occurs in binge drinkers, heavy drinkers, and people with alcohol use disorder (AUD).
Alcohol poisoning can start with an hour or two of heavy drinking as BAC levels reach 0.30% or higher.
As a result, It can take up to three days, sometimes longer, to fully recover from alcohol poisoning.
Most people do not realize they have alcohol poisoning initially and believe it is a hangover.
Alcohol poisoning requires immediate medical care, while people generally recover from hangovers with rest and hydration at home.

How to Prevent Hangovers and Alcohol Poisoning

The most effective way to prevent hangovers and alcohol poisoning is not to drink alcohol. Moreover, if someone does choose to drink alcohol, then they should:

First, Drink in moderation
Next, only consume one drink every one to two hours
Drink water in between drinks to remain hydrated
Moreover, eat before drinking and while drinking
Importantly, Never mix alcohol with medications or other substances
Avoid binge drinking and drinking games
Avoid mixing and switching between different types of alcoholic beverages
Drink mocktails to avoid peer pressure

Find Help for Alcohol Addiction in Los Angeles Today

If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol use and addiction, Sanctuary Treatment Center in Los Angeles is here to help. To begin with, we provide a comfortable and caring environment. In addition, we offer comprehensive, personalized care plans that are tailored to your unique needs. Therefore, Contact us today to take the first steps to a brighter, alcohol-free future.

Published: 4/30/2025

Alcoholics Anonymous: The 12 Steps of AA

Written by Dylan Horwath on January 29, 2025. Posted in Alcohol, Alcohol Addiction.

When someone is addicted to alcohol, part of alcohol rehab treatment can be completing the 12 steps of AA. These steps help people come to terms with their addiction by accepting their actions have consequences and the steps they need to complete as part of their path to recovery. AA can be beneficial when part of a comprehensive rehab treatment program, as well as a part of aftercare treatment.

What Is AA (Alcoholics Anonymous)?

Alcoholics Anonymous consists of a series of 12 steps based on a set of spiritual principles to help people address their alcohol addiction. There are no age restrictions or educational requirements to participate in AA meetings. They are open to everyone, even family and friends of individuals addicted to alcohol. The primary goal of AA meetings is to provide education, support, and help recovering alcoholics achieve and maintain their sobriety.

History of Alcoholics Anonymous

Dr. Bob Smith and Bill Wilson from Arkon, Ohio, founded Alcoholics Anonymous. Both men were alcoholics and found that treatment in 1935 was ineffective and primitive. They developed the foundation and 12 steps of AA.

They believed that alcohol use disorder was a disease that affected the mind, body, and emotions. In addition, they believed that with the right peer support and mutual assistance, people could overcome their addiction to alcohol and maintain their sobriety.

Another common term used in place of AA or Alcoholics Anonymous is “Friends of Bill W.” The term refers to co-founder Bill Wilson and is a way for someone to ask or look for AA meetings without risking their anonymity.

Principles of the 12 Steps of AA

The 12 steps of AA require individuals to work through each step. Although, once all 12 steps are completed, recovery is not over. People are encouraged to repeat various steps as part of their recovery process to help them maintain their sobriety. The principles found within the 12 steps include:

Acceptance that one is powerless over one’s addiction
Recognizing that willpower is not enough to sustain recovery
Reviewing past mistakes
Attempting to make amends with those one hurt
Involving a higher power and spirituality to draw strength from
Attempting to help and support others in their recovery
Connecting and developing peer support to reduce isolation
Finding a sponsor who can help provide mentorship and guidance in times of need
Recognizing one has no control over others or various situations

Benefits and Drawbacks of the 12 Steps of AA

There are several benefits and drawbacks of the 12 steps of AA, as follows:

Benefits:

Structure: AA provides a structured program with specific goals and objectives, which people in recovery often need to reduce the risk of cravings and relapse.
Affordability: AA meetings are free and open to everyone and provide a valuable community resource for those struggling with alcohol addiction.
Accessibility: AA meetings are easy to find in just about any city in the United States, with multiple meeting times.
Sense of community: The 12 steps of AA help provide a sense of community and foster accountability, support, and belonging.
Anonymity: AA meetings allow people to remain anonymous and not share their full name, where they live or work, or other details. This sense of anonymity can help reduce the stigmatization around getting help for alcohol addiction.

Drawbacks:

Faith-based program: AA incorporates faith-based principles into its 12 steps. Some people may not want a program that uses religious beliefs or the belief of a higher power.
No medical treatment: AA is a support group meeting and does not offer any type of medical treatment, such as detox or medication-assisted treatment (MAT).
Focus is on working the 12 steps: The main objective of AA is for participants to work through the 12 different steps, which can overlook other vital parts of recovery, such as developing coping skills and relapse prevention plans.
Public confessional: While there is no pressure on people to share at AA meetings, those who do have to make a public confessional by acknowledging their addiction to the group. This can be unsettling for some people and make them feel uncomfortable.
Focuses only on addiction: AA mainly addresses alcohol addiction, but meetings are open for people with other substance use disorders and addictions. However, the program does not address co-occurring mental health issues.

Is Alcoholics Anonymous Right For You?

Answering the following questions can help determine whether Alcoholics Anonymous is right for you:

Do you have concerns about your drinking?
Do you find it difficult to control your drinking once you start?
Do you have blackouts when drinking?
Do you engage in risky behaviors when drinking that you would not normally do when sober?
Are your friends and family questioning your drinking?
Do you look forward to drinking as a way to release stress or anxiety?
Does your life revolve around drinking?
Do you no longer find enjoyment in activities or hobbies you used to enjoy?
Do you need to drink just to be able to function and get through the day?
Have you distanced yourself from friends and family who think you have a drinking problem?
Has drinking impacted your relationships negatively?
Are you neglecting other responsibilities in favor of drinking?

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center for Help Today

Are you ready to find out if Alcoholics Anonymous is right for you? Sanctuary Treatment Center in Los Angeles offers comprehensive and personalized alcohol addiction treatment programs. Our caring and supportive team works with you to develop a tailored care plan using evidence-based and holistic modalities. Contact us today for further information or to start the admissions process to a brighter, alcohol-free future.

Published: 1/29/2025

Man wondering if he can drink alcohol with high blood pressure finds out

Alcohol and Blood Pressure: What to Know

Written by Lara on August 26, 2024. Posted in Alcohol, Physical Health.

Alcohol use can expose you to a wide range of life-threating health effects. Many of these effects result from – or can be made worse by – the relationship between alcohol and blood pressure.

Does Alcohol Raise Your Blood Pressure?

Does alcohol raise blood pressure? It most definitely does. And while many sources cite the negative impact of binge drinking and chronic alcohol abuse, a recent study indicates that you can be at risk even if you don’t drink excessively.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), consuming just one alcoholic drink per day can cause an increase in blood pressure. The AHA based this warning on a July 2023 analysis of seven studies involving more than 19,000 participants.

That analysis also found that alcohol’s affect on blood pressure mostly follows a linear pattern. This means that heavier drinking is usually associated with larger increases in both systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP).

Analysis Team’s Findings About Alcohol And Blood Pressure

Among adults who consumed an average of 12 grams of alcohol per day – which equates to just a bit less than one standard drink – systolic blood pressure rose by an average of 1.25 mmHg over a five year period.
Over the same time period, adults with an average daily alcohol consumption of 48 grams experienced an average increase of 4.9 mmHg in SBP.
For men, drinking 12 grams of alcohol per day also led to an average increase of 1.14 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure, while 48 daily grams of alcohol was linked to a 3.1mmHG increase in DSB.
The one exception to this pattern is that alcohol intake didn’t affect diastolic blood pressure among women.

SPB (which is the top number in a standard blood pressure reading) measures blood pressure when your heart is beating. DPB (the bottom number) represents blood pressure between heartbeats. These numbers are expressed in mmHG, which refers to the pressure created by a millimeter of mercury.

In general, a blood pressure reading of less than 120 mmHG systolic and less than 80 mmHG diastolic is considered normal for most adults.

Can You Drink Alcohol With High Blood Pressure?

Knowing that alcohol does raise blood pressure, a common follow-up question is, what happens next? Can you drink alcohol with high blood pressure? And, if you do, what type of damage could you incur?

Dangers When Drinking Alcohol With High Blood Pressure

If you have developed hypertension, but you continue to drink, your blood pressure problems are likely to get worse. This can put you at risk of several negative health outcomes, including:

Vision loss
Angina (chest pain)
Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
Heart failure
Kidney damage
Sexual dysfunction
Brain damage

How Else Does Drinking Alcohol Negatively Affect Your Body?

The detrimental relationship between alcohol and blood pressure is just one example of the many ways that drinking can negatively affect your body.

Other potential health effects of alcohol use include:

Heart problems such as abnormal heartbeat (arrhythmia) and a stretching of the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy)
Liver damage, including steatosis, hepatitis, and cirrhosis
Increased risk of many types of cancer, including head and neck, esophageal, liver, breast, and colorectal cancers
Increased risk of stroke
Physical injuries due to accidents, fights, and other behaviors related to alcohol’s impact on coordination and judgment
Malnutrition

The health risks of alcohol aren’t limited to the person who is drinking. For example:

Alcohol use has been linked to increases in various forms of violent crime, including rape and murder.
In 2022, automobile accidents involving alcohol-impaired drivers caused 13,524 deaths in the U.S. This works out to an average of about one death every 39 minutes.
Alcohol use has been identified as a factor in about 40% of confirmed cases of child maltreatment.
People whose mothers drank while pregnant with them may develop fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs), which can include a variety of lifelong impairments.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), alcohol use was a causative factor in an estimated 2.6 million deaths across the globe in 2019. This total included 1.9 million deaths from alcohol-related diseases and 700,000 deaths from alcohol-involved injuries.

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center if You Can’t Stop Drinking

The best way to avoid or delay the progression of alcohol-related health damage is to stop drinking. If you have developed alcohol use disorder – which is the clinical term for alcoholism – this can be difficult and potentially dangerous to accomplish on your own.

But when you get appropriate treatment from a trusted rehab center, you can safely end your alcohol use and begin to build a brighter future in recovery.

Sanctuary Treatment Center offers a full continuum of alcohol rehab services, including detox, residential treatment, and outpatient care. Our center in Los Angeles, California, is a safe and comfortable space where you can work in active collaboration with a team of skilled treatment professionals.

You don’t have to wait until you have incurred irreversible health damage or otherwise “hit rock bottom” before you can benefit from quality clinical care for alcohol addiction. The sooner you get the treatment you need, the quicker you can start living the healthier life you deserve.

To learn more about how we can help you, or to schedule a free assessment, visit our Contact page or call us today.

Woman learning the truth about alcohol and sleep

Alcohol and Sleep: How Drinking Affects Your Rest

Written by Lara on July 30, 2024. Posted in Alcohol.

You know that alcohol can be harmful to your physical health and your psychological well-being. But at least it can help you get a good night’s sleep, right? It may surprise you to learn that the relationship between alcohol and sleep isn’t nearly as beneficial as many people believe.

How Does Alcohol Affect Your Sleep?

Alcohol is a depressant that, over time, can cause fatigue and loss of consciousness. When discussing alcohol and sleep, being unconscious isn’t the same as getting quality sleep.

Several studies on alcohol and sleep have found that drinking can have a direct negative impact on both the amount and quality of a person’s sleep

For example, a November 2015 study in the Korean Journal of Family Medicine reported that men who consume alcohol are more likely than non-drinkers to experience:

Poor sleep quality
Trouble staying asleep
Shorter duration of sleep
Disrupted sleep due to snoring

KJFM researchers found that alcohol is less likely to affect women’s sleep duration but more likely to disrupt its restorative functions. As a result, women may sleep better than men but still feel the effects of poor sleep during the day.

According to the Handbook of Clinical Neurology, the effects of alcohol use before bed can include:

Alcohol can delay the onset of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. It can also reduce the overall amount of REM sleep that a person gets, especially in the first half of the night:
REM sleep, which should account for about one-fourth of the time a person is asleep, has been linked with an array of benefits, including better mental health and a stronger immune system.
During the second half of the night, people who drink alcohol before bed are more likely to wake up or spend more time at the N1 sleep stage.
Characterized by very light sleep, the N1 stage should ideally only take up about 5% of your time asleep.

Alcohol-related sleep disruptions can lead to a “downward spiral,” as described in the Handbook of Clinical Neurology. A person self-medicates exhaustion with caffeine, then uses alcohol at night to offset it and attempt to sleep.

Can Any Particular Type of Alcohol Help Your Sleep?

Contrary to what you may have heard or read, there is no type of alcohol that can actually help you sleep better.

Yes, alcohol can help you fall asleep quicker – but the drug may cause you to wake up several times during the night and prevent you from getting an adequate amount of the quality, deep sleep that can be essential to your continued health.

If you’ve had difficulty getting a good night’s sleep, the National Sleep Foundation suggests:

Keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet
Avoiding alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine
Not eating for at least two to three hours before going to bed
Establishing a sleep schedule that includes going to bed and getting up at the same time every day (yes, even on weekends and holidays)
Exercising on a regular basis throughout the week

What if I Can’t Fall Asleep Without Alcohol?

If you can’t fall asleep without alcohol, it’s time to talk to a professional.

Insomnia can be symptomatic of a medical problem or a mental health concern. It may also be a sign that you have developed alcohol use disorder, which is the clinical term for alcoholism.

The first step is to schedule a thorough evaluation with your primary physician or a qualified healthcare provider. Once the issue is identified, you can explore treatment options and choose the best path forward.

If your evaluation reveals that you have become addicted to alcohol, your options may include:

Detoxification: This is a short-term program to help you get through alcohol withdrawal safely and with minimal discomfort. In severe cases, alcohol withdrawal can include life-threatening symptoms, which underscores the value of detox.
Inpatient rehab: At this level, you can participate in full days of treatment and benefit from 24/7 support. While you’re in an inpatient program, your care will likely include a variety of therapies and support services, as well as nutritious meals and therapeutic leisure activities.
Outpatient programming: After you have completed inpatient rehab, outpatient care can be an ideal source of continuing support, which can help you establish a stronger foothold in early recovery.

Treatment for alcohol addiction may include the following, depending on your needs and program:

Medication to ease withdrawal symptoms and minimized alcohol cravings
Individual, group, and family therapy sessions
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)

If your alcohol abuse and addiction are related to untreated trauma, services such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy may be vital components of your treatment plan.

There is no standard course of treatment for alcohol addiction that works for everyone. This is why it can be so important to find a provider that will closely review your history and thoroughly assess your needs, then develop a customized plan just for you.

Personalized care can be particularly important if you also have anxiety, depression, or another co-occurring mental health concern. In such a case, dual diagnosis programming – which incorporates care for your struggles with both addiction and mental illness – can best prepare you for long-term success.

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center to Treat Alcohol Dependency

If you’ve been unable to quit drinking on your own, Sanctuary Treatment Center is here to help.

At our alcohol rehab in Los Angeles, California, you can receive a full continuum of personalized care. Work with skilled professionals to end alcohol use and build a healthier, hopeful life in recovery. When you’re ready to get started, the Sanctuary team is here for you. To learn more or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Contact page or call us today.

Signs Someone is Drinking Alcoholic Beverages

Written by Lara on July 9, 2024. Posted in Alcohol, Alcohol Addiction, Alcoholism.

You suspect that someone you love has secretly been drinking, but you’re not sure how to confirm your suspicions. Even if they try to hide what they’ve been doing, a person who has been drinking alcoholic beverages will usually leave some clues. When you understand what these clues look like, you will be better prepared to take appropriate action.

A Person Who Has Been Drinking Alcoholic Beverages Will Usually:

When it comes to identifying someone who has been drinking, there are few absolutes. Different people may be affected in different ways depending on a variety of factors, such as:

Their age, weight, and metabolism
How often they drink
How much they typically consume
If they are also abusing other addictive substances
If they have certain medical or mental health concerns

Also, if a person is trying to hide their drinking from their parents, a spouse, or someone else, they may take additional steps to keep their behavior a secret.

Having said all that, there are some common actions, characteristics, and behavior patterns that are difficult to conceal, especially for someone who drinks on a regular basis.

For example, a person who has been drinking alcoholic beverages will usually (or often) exhibit signs such as:

Odor of alcohol on their breath
Glassy or watery eyes
Slurred speech
Impaired coordination
Changes in mood and attitude
Confusion
Memory problems
Poor judgment
Diminished inhibition
Uncharacteristic aggression or recklessness
Increased talkativeness
Difficulty remaining awake and alert

It is also important to keep an eye out for signs that aren’t directly related to alcohol intoxication, but which could suggest that your loved one is drinking.

If you think your spouse or another adult has relapsed after a period of sobriety, pay attention to signs such as:

Problems at work
Unexplained financial difficulties
Unintentional weight change
Disrupted sleep patterns
Frequent need to “run errands” or otherwise leave the house by themselves
Lying or otherwise being deceitful about where they’ve been
No longer attending recovery support group meetings

If you are a parent and you suspect that your teen has begun to use alcohol, watch for indicators such as:

Downturn in performance in school
Increased behavior problems at home or in school
Lack of motivation
Secrecy about how they spend their time and who they have been associating with
Abandoning their usual friend group
Ending their participation in sports, clubs, hobbies, or other activities that used to be important to them
Pulling away from you and other family members
Lack of attention to appearance, grooming, and even hygiene

Of course, none of these signs on their own are conclusive proof that your child has been drinking. They could be experiencing a problem with stress management, anxiety, depression, or another mental health concern. Or they could simply be dealing with the hormonal and attitudinal changes that are common among adolescents.

In general, though, any significant alterations in attitude, behavior, and/or appearance should be cause for concern.

What Can You Do if You Suspect a Loved One May Be Drinking Alcoholic Beverages?

If someone in your life should not be drinking alcohol, but you suspect that they are, you may be worried, frustrated, or even angry.

Please know that it is both normal and understandable to feel this way. However, an immediate emotional reaction could make the problem even worse than it already is. Instead, take the time to assess the situation and review your options. This way, when you take action, you will be responding thoughtfully instead of reacting on a purely emotional basis.

Please remember this: There is no perfect response to situations like these. You will need to consider an array of factors, including the nature of your relationship with your loved one, if they have developed alcohol use disorder (alcoholism), and how their drinking has affected them, you, and your family.

With those thoughts in mind, here are a few steps that may be appropriate for you:

Don’t ignore your suspicions. Even though you wish you didn’t have to deal with this challenge, pretending that it’s not happening will only allow the problem to grow.
If your loved one is addicted to alcohol, take the time to educate yourself about alcoholism, treatment, recovery, and relapse. This can help you respond in the most meaningful and beneficial manner.
Consult with experts. If the person you’re concerned about is your partner or another adult, you may want to contact an addiction treatment provider or a support group for the loved ones of people who are struggling with addiction. If you think your child has been drinking, reach out to their guidance counselor or a substance abuse professional who works with teens.
Talk to your loved one. Let them know what you’ve observed and express your concerns about their behaviors. Be prepared for denial, pushback, or even anger. Try not to let the conversation descend into an argument.
Listen to your loved one. Their response, such as if they admit or deny what they’ve been doing, can give you valuable insights into their state of mind. If they do acknowledge that they’ve been drinking, their willingness or refusal to get help can inform your next steps.
Set (and maintain) appropriate boundaries. If you are dealing with an adolescent or teen, this can include establishing clear rules to ensure you know where they are, who they’re with, and what they’re doing. For adults, this can involve letting them know what types of behaviors you will no longer tolerate.
Get help for yourself. Alcoholism and other types of addiction don’t only affect the person who has the disorder. Parents, partners, siblings, close friends, and other loved ones can also be impacted. Talking to a counselor or therapist can help you process your experiences and decide how best to help your loved one while keeping yourself safe.

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center to Learn About Our Alcohol Treatment Center

If someone that you care about has become addicted to alcohol, they may need professional care to stop drinking and start building a healthier life in recovery.

Sanctuary Treatment Center offers a full continuum of care within a safe and welcoming environment. Programming options at our alcohol addiction treatment center in Los Angeles include detoxification, inpatient rehab, and outpatient care. At every level, your loved one will receive personalized services from a team of skilled and experienced professionals.

To learn more about how we can help, or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Contact page or call us today.

Woman with the alcohol shakes after a night out

Alcohol Shakes: Am I an Alcoholic?

Written by Lara on April 8, 2024. Posted in Alcohol, Alcoholism.

Alcohol shakes can be a sign that a person’s drinking has reached a perilous point. If you experience this symptom but don’t take steps to stop your alcohol use, you may face life-threatening consequences.

What are Alcohol Shakes?

Alcohol shakes are one of the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal that involve twitches and tremors. This shakiness is most common in the arms and hands, though it can also affect other parts of the body as well.

Alcohol withdrawal typically refers to those stopping after developing alcohol use disorder. While alcohol shakes can be part of this process, they aren’t limited to those actively trying to quit.

The experience that is commonly referred to as a hangover is actually a form of alcohol withdrawal. For people who drink infrequently, common withdrawal symptoms after a night of heavy drinking include headache, nausea, and dehydration. But for someone who has been drinking heavily for an extended period, “the morning after” may also include the alcohol shakes.

In extreme cases, the frequency and severity of alcohol shakes can cause people to start drinking as soon as they wake up, in an attempt to ease their tremors so they can function.

Are the Shakes from Alcohol Withdrawal Dangerous?

Alcohol shakes don’t necessarily pose a grave danger on their own – but they can be a sign that a person’s alcohol use has progressed to a dangerous point:

Regular alcohol shakes often indicate chronic alcohol abuse, which may have caused other, less obvious damage. While liver disease is a known consequence, many don’t realize that symptoms may not appear until the damage is irreversible.
If a person experiences alcohol shakes while trying to quit on their own, the distress from tremors and other withdrawal symptoms can overwhelm them, leading to a relapse into alcohol abuse.
If a person experiences excessive shakiness while going through withdrawal, this can be a symptom of delirium tremens (which is commonly referred to as the DTs). The DTs are a set of particularly dangerous withdrawal symptoms that, if not treated, can be fatal. This underscores the importance of professional detoxification for people who have severe alcoholism.

Does it Mean I’m an Alcoholic if I Get the Shakes?

Alcohol shakes are not specifically included in the criteria for alcohol use disorder in the DSM-5. However, the presence of alcohol withdrawal symptoms is one of the criteria in the DSM-5.

Alcohol shakes strongly suggest that a person has become addicted to alcohol. Anyone who develops this symptom may be in crisis, and they should consult with a healthcare provider. An addiction treatment expert or qualified professional can assess symptoms, provide a diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

How to Stop Alcohol Shakes?

The best ways to stop alcohol shakes are to either quit drinking or dramatically reduce the amount and frequency of your alcohol use.

If you have become addicted to alcohol, quitting drinking can be quite difficult – but it is by no means impossible. With the right treatment, you can stop alcohol use and develop the skills needed for successful, long-term recovery.

For many people who have developed alcohol use disorder, the path to recovery begins with detoxification, or detox:

Detox is a short-term program offering medical and therapeutic support to protect your health and ease withdrawal discomfort.
Alcohol detox usually lasts around five days, though the duration can vary based on individual factors.
Once you have completed detox, you can transition directly into the next phase of your treatment. This can minimize your risk of immediate relapse and help you establish a strong foothold in early recovery.

After you have completed detox – or if you don’t need this service – your best next step may be inpatient rehab or an outpatient program.

While you are in an inpatient rehab program, you will live at the treatment facility. Inpatient rehab offers 24/7 supervision and support, giving you a break from daily stress and distractions. A typical day includes therapies, support services, nutritious meals, and time for relaxation and reflection.
At the outpatient level, you will only need to be at the facility while you are receiving treatment. When there are no sessions scheduled, you can return to your home or to a supportive residence. Depending on the program, you may be able to work part-time, take classes, or volunteer while in treatment.

Some people complete detox, transfer into inpatient rehab, then step down to an outpatient program for additional support before they transition out of care. Others only spend time in one or two of these programs. There is no “right way” to get help for alcoholism and overcome the alcohol shakes. All that matters is finding the path that’s right for you.

Contact Our Medical Alcohol Detox to Safely Withdraw Today

If alcohol shakes or other withdrawal symptoms have been preventing you from safely quitting drinking, Sanctuary Treatment Center is here for you.

Our full continuum of care includes medical detox, which can help you to rid your body of alcohol safely and with minimal discomfort. Our alcohol addiction treatment center in Los Angeles, California, also offers inpatient rehab and outpatient treatment options, so that you can learn how to live a healthier life, free from the constraints of compulsive alcohol abuse.

To learn more or to schedule a free assessment, visit our Contact Us page or call us today.

Understanding Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS)

Written by Lara on March 7, 2024. Posted in Alcohol, Drug Withdrawal.

Alcohol is one of the most frequently abused substances in the United States, and alcohol use disorder (alcoholism) is one of the most common addictions. Once someone has developed this disorder, the distress of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) can make it extremely difficult for them to quit drinking. This can be particularly true of people who try to end their alcohol abuse on their own, without proper professional care.

What is Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome?

When a person develops alcoholism, their system adapts to the continuous presence of alcohol. When this person abruptly stops drinking, or when they are prevented from acquiring and using alcohol, their body can respond with a variety of painful physical and psychological symptoms. Clinical professionals refer to this experience as alcohol withdrawal syndrome.

Symptoms of AWS

The type, intensity, and duration of alcohol withdrawal symptoms can vary considerably from one person to the next. Factors that can influence a person’s experience with alcohol withdrawal syndrome include their age and gender, how much and how long they have been drinking, and if they have any co-occurring medical or mental health concerns.

With these caveats in mind, someone who goes through alcohol withdrawal syndrome may develop physical symptoms such as the following:

Heart palpitations
Elevated blood pressure
Headaches
Elevated body temperature
Excessive perspiration
Gastrointestinal distress
Loss of appetite
Insomnia
Nightmares
Exhaustion and fatigue
Alcohol shakes, tics, twitches, and/or tremors

The psychological impact of alcohol withdrawal can include the following types of symptoms:

Powerful cravings for alcohol
Agitation and irritability
Anxiety
Depression
Confusion and disorientation
Hallucinations
Delirium

Is Alcohol Withdrawal Actually Deadly?

For people who have become addicted to most drugs, withdrawal can be extremely uncomfortable, but it rarely poses a long-term health threat. Unfortunately, alcohol withdrawal can be both painful and dangerous. The risk is especially high for people who have a long history of heavy alcohol abuse.

As an indicator of the risk faced by heavy drinkers, a 2010 study in the journal Alcohol and Alcoholism reported a 6.6% fatality rate among 436 alcohol withdrawal patients who received care at one Spanish hospital over a 16-year period.

More than 70% of the patients whose data were included in the Spanish study developed delirium tremens. Typically referred to as the DTs, delirium tremens is a severe subset of alcohol withdrawal syndrome that involves the following symptoms:

Visual hallucinations
Extreme disorientation
Dangerously high heart rate
Hypertension
Seizure

Experts estimate that more than one of every three people who develop the DTs would die if they didn’t get appropriate medical care. Thanks to the ability of treatment professionals to address these symptoms, the actual fatality rate among people who have the DTs is estimated to be between 1%-5%.

What are the Available Treatments for Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome?

The best option for dealing with alcohol withdrawal syndrome is to enter a medically supervised detoxification program. Here are a few of the many potential benefits of starting your treatment experience with detox:

If you try to quit drinking on your own, the distress of withdrawal can quickly push you back into active alcohol abuse. When you’re in detox, you won’t have access to alcohol or other addictive substances, which eliminates your risk of immediate relapse.
Reputable detox programs are staffed by experienced professionals who are familiar with all aspects of the withdrawal process. Knowing that you are being cared for by dedicated individuals who can address any contingencies that may occur can be a source of great peace of mind.
Your detox treatment team will be able to offer both medical and therapeutic support to safeguard your health and minimize your discomfort. A member of your team will be available 24/7, so you will always be able to summon help if your symptoms become too intense.
Participating in therapy while you’re still in detox can prepare you to fully engage in the post-detox phases of your treatment, which can improve your ability to achieve successful, long-term recovery.
When you complete detox at a rehab center that also offers inpatient and outpatient programming, you can transfer directly into the next phase of your treatment. This promotes continuity of care and reduces your risk of early relapse.

What Comes After Detoxing From Post-Acute Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome?

As we’ve established in this post, detox can be an essential step for people who want to free themselves from the chains of compulsive alcohol abuse. But detox alone can’t prepare you to address the psychological, behavioral, and social aspects of recovery. This is why it is so important to enroll in an inpatient or outpatient program once you’ve completed detox.

While you’re in residential or inpatient rehab, you will live at the facility where you’re receiving care. This provides temporary respite from the pressures and distractions of everyday life, so you can focus your full attention on your treatment and your recovery. Residential rehab programs typically offer daily schedules that feature a variety of therapies and support services, along with structured recreation and leisure time.
In an outpatient rehab program, group therapy is usually the main method of care, though other services are typically also offered as well. Depending on which type of outpatient program you enroll in, you may take part in either full or partial days of treatment. When the program is not in session, you can return to your home or to an alternative supported residence.

Determining which level or levels of post-detox care are right for you is a personal decision that you should make in consultation with the members of your treatment team. Some people transition from detox into residential rehab, then step down to an outpatient program. Others go from detox to outpatient care.

Remember: There’s no such thing as one perfect path to recovery. What’s most important is finding the path that’s perfect for you.

Contact Our California Alcohol Detox Center Today

If alcohol withdrawal syndrome has kept you trapped in the downward spiral of compulsive drinking, please know that help is available. Sanctuary Treatment Center offers personalized residential and outpatient services for adults who have been struggling with alcoholism and certain co-occurring mental health concerns.

Features of care at our alcohol rehab program in southern California include a safe and respectful environment, personalized treatment plans for all patients, multiple forms of therapy, and thorough aftercare support. With the guidance and support of our dedicated treatment professionals, you can start living the healthier life that you deserve.

To learn more or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Contact page or call us today.

Get answers to questions about getting a DUI

DUI Questions Answered

Written by Lara on December 7, 2023. Posted in Alcohol.

Anyone who drives after drinking alcohol or using drugs risks a range of negative outcomes, including arrest for DUI. In today’s post, we answer many common questions about DUIs in the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions About DUIs

What is a DUI?

DUI is short for “driving under the influence.” Many people use this abbreviation to mean drunk driving, but it can also apply to operating a motor vehicle while impaired by substances like cocaine, marijuana, opioids, and hallucinogens.

In 49 states plus the District of Columbia, a driver can be arrested for DUI if they are found to have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. In Utah, a driver can be given a DUI if their BAC is 0.05% or higher. Legal limits for other drugs can vary from state to state.

Most DUI laws in the U.S. are set at the state level, though the 0.08% BAC limit is a federal standard. States can impose stricter BAC limits, as Utah has done.

Also, it’s important to note that the 0.08% BAC limit only applies to adults ages 21 and over. For drivers in the 16-20 age range, some states have a zero tolerance policy, which means that any BAC above 0.00% qualifies as a DUI, while other states have a 0.01% or 0.02% BAC threshold.

What is the Difference Between a DUI and a DWI?

DWI is short for “driving while impaired” or “driving while intoxicated.” Some states use this term instead of DUI. Some other states use OVI (operating a vehicle while intoxicated).

In most cases, there is little to no difference among DUI, DWI, or OVI – these are simply state-specific legal terms that describe driving while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

Is a DUI a Felony or a Misdemeanor?

As we noted in our response to an earlier question, most DUI-related laws are enacted by state legislatures. This means that limitations, terminology, and penalties can vary from one state to the next. This includes if a DUI is classified as a felony or a misdemeanor.

In California, where our addiction rehab facility is located, most DUIs are misdemeanors. However, certain factors can raise a DUI from a misdemeanor to a felony in California. Examples of these factors include:

If the DUI resulted in an injury to (the or death of) another person
If the driver has been convicted of three or more DUIs, DWIs, or OVIs from any states within the past 10 years
If the driver has previously been convicted of a felony DUI
If the DUI occurred while the driver was transporting a passenger under the age of 14

Can You Get a DUI on a Scooter or a Bicycle?

Yes, in most states (including California), you can get a DUI if you were riding a bicycle or scooter while impaired by alcohol or other drugs.

Can You Get a DUI on a Horse?

Though this happens far less frequently than DUIs involving scooters or bicycles, you can get a DUI in several states – including California – while riding a horse, or while holding the reins of a horse that is pulling you in a buggy.

How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Driving Record?

In California, a DUI conviction typically remains on your record for 10 years, starting from the day of your arrest if you are convicted.

Most other states retain DUIs on drivers’ records for five or 10 years. One state that doesn’t follow this trend is Florida, which mandates that DUIs remain on drivers’ records for 75 years after the offense.

Can You Still Get a CDL With a DUI on Your Record?

Getting a DUI can impact your ability to qualify for or retain a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

For example, if you get a DUI, your CDL will automatically suspend for at least one year, regardless of whether you were driving a commercial or private vehicle. This is a federal law.

A second DUI can result in a much longer suspension, including the possible lifetime revocation of your CDL.

It is possible to obtain a CDL with one DUI on your record, though two DUIs will disqualify you from applying. Even if you obtain a CDL, a DUI on your record can make it much harder to secure employment.

Does a DUI Show up on Your Passport?

Having a DUI should not impact your ability to acquire or keep a U.S. passport. Additionally, DUIs and other convictions do not appear on passports.

However, possessing a U.S. passport does not automatically grant you entry into foreign nations. Many countries ban visitors who have felony convictions, and some extend that prohibition to travelers who have DUIs or other misdemeanors.

How Much Does a DUI Typically Cost?

A DUI can be quite expensive – and not just in a financial sense. A DUI can negatively impact many areas of your life, including your reputation, career progression, and relationships.

But for the purposes of this answer, let’s focus solely on the financial costs. First, as is the case with so many of our DUI answers, we need to reiterate that the costs of a DUI can vary from state to state. Regardless of your state, though, it’s safe to say that it is likely to cost you several thousands of dollars. Here are examples of the many factors that can contribute to the high cost of a DUI:

Bail money after your arrest
Court costs and fines
Attorney fees
DMV fees to have your license reinstated after suspension
Fees related to the towing and impounding of your vehicle
Fees for ignition interlocks, DUI/traffic/alcohol safety classes, and other requirements
Higher automobile insurance premiums

Many reputable sources estimate that the cost of one can range from $10,000 to $20,000.

Can Your License Be Suspended After Your First Conviction?

A DUI conviction is almost always accompanied by a suspension of your driver’s license. The duration of this suspension can depend on factors such as which state you live in and how many prior DUIs you have on your record.

In California, which is home to Sanctuary Treatment Center, a first-time DUI typically triggers a license suspension of four months to one year. Subsequent DUIs will result in much longer license suspensions.

Will You Go to Jail on Your Third DUI?

In addition to losing your license for a longer period of time, a third DUI will also increase the likelihood that you will spend time in jail. This is not a foregone conclusion, as the judge may take several factors into consideration when determining your sentence.

You should also realize that you don’t have to be convicted of three DUIs before you face jail time. Even a first-time offence can be result in jail time in certain circumstances.

How Can You Avoid Jail Time After Getting a DUI?

Several factors influence your risk of jail time for a DUI, including your blood alcohol content (with harsher penalties for BACs of 0.15% or higher in some states), the number of prior convictions on your record, and whether your DUI caused any injuries or deaths.

Will My Employer Be Notified?

Employer notification requirements vary from state to state and profession to profession. It’s unlikely that the court will directly contact your employer, but they may learn about your DUI via other means.

For example, in California, the DMV will notify trucking companies if someone on their list of employees loses their license as a result. Also, since arrests, court cases, and convictions are all a matter of public record, your current or potential future employers may become aware of your DUI if they conduct a background check on you.

Depending on your job, contract, or professional licenses, you may need to inform the licensing board or your employer if you are arrested or convicted.

Can Going to Rehab Prevent You From Going to Jail After Getting a DUI?

In certain circumstances, a judge may view going to rehab as an acceptable alternative to jail for a DUI. However, enrolling in a rehab program is not a “get out of jail free” card. Once convicted of a DUI, the judge will consider your willingness to seek professional help among many other factors when determining your sentence.

What to Do if You Can’t Stop Drinking and Driving

Regardless of any sentencing implications, professional treatment may be your best choice if you can’t stop drinking and driving.

Continuing to use alcohol or any other drug after incurring harm (such as getting a DUI) as a result of prior use is one of the symptoms of addiction. If you simply can’t stop drinking and driving on your own, you owe it to yourself and your loved ones, as well as to other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians, to get help.

There is no single path to sobriety. When you’re seeking help for alcoholism or another type of addiction, what’s most important is finding a provider that will assess your need and then develop a customized plan just for you.

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center About Our Alcohol Rehab Center in Los Angeles, CA

Sanctuary Treatment Center is a trusted provider of comprehensive, personalized care for adults in the Los Angeles area who have become addicted to alcohol and other drugs. Our rehab center offers a full continuum of care, including detox, inpatient treatment, and outpatient programming.

To learn more or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Contact Us page or call us today.