Alcohol is a type of depressant drug that slows down the function of the central nervous system. When a person gets behind the wheel of a car after consuming alcohol, they cannot control some of their actions. Driving under the influence puts lives on the line because of this lack of control. Our team at Sierra Sage Recovery Services wants to ensure you have access to the care you need to stop engaging in this type of behavior.
Why Driving Under the Influence Is Risky
A DUI charge may help some people realize they need help with alcohol abuse. It may signal that you can’t make wise decisions when consuming alcohol. When too much alcohol is consumed, the kidneys and liver cannot remove enough of the substance from the bloodstream. This allows alcohol to flow through the body and brain. As it does, it interacts with the function of the brain, slowing everything down, including the brain’s function, heart rate, and breathing rate. You also have a sense of euphoria or reduced stress.
When this happens, it creates significant changes in abilities. This may include:
- Slow reaction time. Being unable to respond quickly to stimuli around you, such as an animal in the road or a car merging.
- Lack of coordination. It’s impossible to drive a steady, straight path because alcohol distorts sight, muscle function, and focus.
- Reduced concentration. It’s hard to pay attention to the road or people. This may mean a person is swerving or taking their eyes off the road.
- Reduced vision. Many people struggle to see properly when consuming alcohol. That leads to a decrease in the ability to stay within the lane.
- Inhibited judgment: A person who is engaging in substance abuse is less likely to make wise decisions on the road, behind the wheel. This includes turning, speed control, or merging.
All of these factors make driving under the influence dangerous. It also may signal substance abuse if it occurs often.
How to Know Driving Under the Influence Requires Treatment?
While a single DUI may not mean a person has alcohol addiction, patterns of reckless behavior may. Numerous DUIs or close calls with law enforcement may indicate substance abuse. Look at the impact on other areas of life as well. For example, alcohol abuse often impacts relationships, a person’s ability to work, and their ability to meet ongoing responsibilities.
Some people also develop physical signs of alcohol abuse. This may include drinking all of the time or hiding how much or often they are consuming alcohol. Some people may also exhibit withdrawal signs when they don’t have access, such as pain, headaches, trouble sleeping, or inability to focus. Anxiety and paranoia can also be signs of this.
How to Get Help for Driving Under the Influence
Those with substance abuse or at risk for developing it can reach out to our team at Sierra Sage Recovery Services. We’ll provide a full assessment to determine the specific needs you have. This may lead to treatment through several programs we offer, including:
- Intensive outpatient program
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Partial hospitalization program
- Outpatient treatment program
- Aftercare treatment programs
Just one DUI can be a wake-up call that a problem exists. Your goal, then, is to get help now before a tragedy occurs.
Find the Care You Need – Call Sierra Sage Recovery Services
Driving under the influence puts the lives of yourself and others in danger. If you’re struggling with alcohol addiction, do the best thing for yourself and others. Call Sierra Sage Recovery Services. Allow our team to work with you to control your addiction. Call our team at 833.922.2884 or connect with us online to learn more.
