April marks Alcohol Awareness Month, a crucial time to shed light on alcohol use disorder (AUD) and celebrate the possibility of recovery. At Hygea Healthcare, we believe in “Recovery Without Barriers,” and we’re dedicated to helping individuals across Maryland find their path to lasting sobriety.
Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder in 2025
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), approximately 29.5 million Americans aged 12 and older had alcohol use disorder in 2024 [1]. This represents about 10.7% of the population, making it one of the most prevalent substance use disorders in the United States. The CDC reports that excessive alcohol use leads to more than 140,000 deaths annually in the United States [2].
The Impact of the Pandemic Era
Recent studies from the Journal of Clinical Medicine show that alcohol consumption patterns shifted significantly during and after the pandemic, with a 23% increase in heavy drinking episodes [3]. This trend has continued into 2025, highlighting the urgent need for accessible treatment options.
Warning Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder
The American Psychiatric Association identifies several key indicators of alcohol use disorder [4]:
- Inability to control or stop drinking
- Drinking interfering with work or relationships
- Increased tolerance to alcohol
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms
- Continuing to drink despite negative consequences
- Giving up previously enjoyed activities due to alcohol use
- Spending significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from alcohol
- Experiencing cravings or strong urges to drink
Health Implications of Untreated AUD
Research published in The Lancet shows that chronic alcohol use can lead to various health complications [5]:
- Liver disease and cirrhosis
- Cardiovascular problems
- Increased cancer risk
- Neurological disorders
- Mental health issues
- Weakened immune system
The Hygea Healthcare Approach
At our Maryland facilities in Belair, Camp Meade, and Middle River, we offer evidence-based treatment services including:
Medical Detoxification The Journal of Addiction Medicine emphasizes that medically supervised detox significantly increases success rates in alcohol recovery [6]. Our professional medical team ensures a safe and comfortable detoxification process.
Residential Rehabilitation Studies show that residential treatment programs have success rates up to 68% higher than outpatient programs for severe AUD cases [7].
Evidence-Based Therapy We utilize proven therapeutic approaches, including:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Motivational Enhancement Therapy
- Group Support Sessions
- Alternative healing methods
Success Stories That Inspire
Celebrity recovery stories continue to break stigmas and encourage others to seek help. Tom Holland’s recent sobriety journey and successful launch of BERO non-alcoholic beer demonstrates that positive change is possible [8]. Additionally, the Maryland Department of Health reports a 15% increase in successful recovery outcomes when individuals seek professional treatment [9].
The Science of Recovery
Recent neuroscience research published in Nature Neuroscience reveals that the brain can significantly heal from alcohol-related damage within the first year of sobriety [10]. This understanding helps inform our treatment approaches and provides hope for lasting recovery.
Taking the First Step
Recovery doesn’t have to be a solitary journey. Our team at Hygea Healthcare provides personalized treatment plans that consider your unique needs and circumstances. We focus on the five H’s that guide our approach:
- Health
- Hope
- Happiness
- Humility
- Humor
Local Support in Maryland
With multiple locations throughout Maryland, we’re making quality alcohol treatment accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status or payer type. Our commitment to “Recovery Without Barriers” means we’re here to support you every step of the way.
The Road to Recovery: What to Expect
The Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment outlines that successful recovery typically involves several key phases [11]:
- Recognition and acceptance
- Medical detoxification
- Active treatment and therapy
- Aftercare and ongoing support
- Long-term maintenance and growth
Ready to Start Your Recovery Journey?
Contact Hygea Healthcare today: Phone: 410-512-9525 or 443-726-1380 Visit: www.hygea.health
[1] https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics/alcohol-facts-and-statistics/alcohol-use-disorder-aud-united-states-age-groups-and-demographic-characteristics (For NIAAA statistics)
[2] https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/states/excessive-alcohol-use-united-states.html (For CDC mortality data)
[3] https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/fact-sheets/2024/12/americas-most-common-drug-problem-unhealthy-alcohol-use (For current AUD prevalence)
[4] https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/alcohol-use-disorder (For AUD diagnostic criteria)
[5] https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt47095/National%20Report/National%20Report/2023-nsduh-annual-national.htm (For national survey data)
