Treatment for Alcohol and Gambling Addiction

A 29-year-old client sought treatment at Veda’s Mumbai center in 2024 for severe alcohol and gambling addiction, accompanied by sleep disturbances and panic attacks. Through a comprehensive treatment plan integrating therapy, psychiatric support, and wellness practices, the client successfully regained control over their life, developing healthier coping mechanisms and a renewed sense of self.

Background:

• Patient Profile: 29-year-old professional experiencing alcohol dependency and gambling addiction
• Initial Concerns: Severe alcohol use led to impaired judgment, family conflicts, and business disruptions. Long-term sleep disturbances (over a decade) contributed to excessive alcohol consumption, often until unconsciousness. The client also reported frequent panic attacks, exacerbated by gambling losses.

Treatment Goals

Primary Objective:

• Eliminate alcohol dependence and reduce gambling tendencies.
• Address panic attacks, sleep disturbances, and emotional distress.
• Improve impulse control and develop sustainable coping mechanisms.

Approach & Methodology

Holistic Interventions:

• Medical Management: Psychiatric evaluation led to a diagnosis of alcohol dependency disorder, schizoid personality disorder, anxiety disorder, and dysthymia. Medications were prescribed to manage withdrawal symptoms, sleep disturbances, and cravings.
• Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) was employed to address substance use, impulse control, and anxiety. Motivational Interviewing (MI) was incorporated to help modify gambling behaviors.
• Wellness Practices: A structured routine included daily yoga, pranayama, and meditation techniques such as Yoga Nidra and Ho’oponopono meditation. Morning walks and sun exposure were encouraged to enhance well-being.

Custom Techniques:

• CBT was tailored to manage compulsive gambling and alcohol-related impulse control.
• REBT (Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy) was introduced to help challenge and replace negative thought patterns.
• Sleep hygiene interventions were implemented, including guided meditation and relaxation techniques.

Challenges Faced During Treatment

Patient-Specific Obstacles:

• Severe withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety and panic attacks.
• Resistance to breaking compulsive gambling patterns, especially in high-stress situations.
• Emotional distress linked to family and business conflicts.

Clinical or Logistical Hurdles:

• The presence of co-occurring disorders (personality disorder, anxiety, dysthymia) complicated the recovery process.
• The client initially struggled with therapy adherence due to strong cravings and impulsivity

Team’s Response:

• Gradual exposure therapy was introduced to help the client cope with withdrawal symptoms and avoid relapse triggers.
• A personalized relapse prevention plan was created, combining mindfulness practices with behavioral interventions.
• Family counseling was recommended to mend strained relationships and create a supportive environment.

Results & Success Indicators

Quantitative Outcomes:

• Significant reduction in alcohol cravings and panic attack frequency.
• Noticeable improvement in sleep quality after years of disturbances.
• Decrease in gambling urges, with better financial decision-making.

Qualitative Outcomes:

• Increased emotional stability and impulse control.
• Strengthened interpersonal relationships and improved family dynamics.
• A more optimistic outlook on personal and professional life.

Before & After Snapshot:

• Before: Heavy alcohol consumption leading to unconsciousness, compulsive gambling, family conflicts, and severe sleep deprivation.
• After: Controlled alcohol use, reduced gambling urges, improved emotional resilience, and enhanced sleep hygiene.

Key Takeaways & Lessons Learned

Client Perspective:

The client acknowledged the transformative impact of therapy, particularly in managing cravings and negative thought patterns. Meditation and structured routines played a key role in sustaining recovery

Therapeutic Insights:

• Addressing sleep disturbances early on significantly aided addiction recovery.
• Combining CBT with wellness techniques (yoga, meditation) proved effective in managing anxiety and compulsive behaviors.
• Personalized treatment plans, with a balance of therapy and lifestyle modifications, increase long-term success rates.

Confidentiality & Disclaimer

1. Anonymity Assurance: Names, images, or identifying details have been changed or omitted to protect the privacy of the individuals involved.
2. Medical Disclaimer: This case study is provided for informational purposes only. It should not be construed as medical advice, nor is it intended to replace the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals. Always seek the advice of a licensed medical provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.