What Happens to Your SR22 Insurance When You Move?

Making a big move is always exciting, whether it’s for a new job or to simply change your surroundings. You may be wondering, though, what happens to your SR22 insurance when you move? While it may seem like a complicated idea, there’s no need to stress. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know regarding moving and having SR22 insurance.

Do you still need it?

Even though you’re moving out of the current state you live in, that doesn’t mean your SR22 disappears once you leave. You’re still going to need your SR22 insurance. For example, if you have an SR22 in Colorado, but you move to Indiana, you’re still going to need to maintain that SR22 and not let it expire. If you fail to maintain it, you may even lose your ability to have a license, and possibly face other penalties.

Will you need new SR22 insurance?

When you move to a new state, you’re likely to need to update your insurance accordingly. Even if you’re moving to a state that doesn’t typically use SR22 insurance, you’ll need to keep it going. To keep the insurance that you already have, your insurance provider needs to have a license in the state you’re leaving and the one you’ll be moving to. If you’re not sure whether or not they serve both states, be sure to give them a call well in advance to your actual moving date.

Are there differences state to state?

It’s important to educate yourself on the differences between each state’s SR22 insurance policies. Not all of them have the same requirements or specifics, so you’re not going to want that information to blindside you. Read up on the different requirements and go into your new state with all the information you can get.

SR22 insurance can be confusing to navigate, but with the right help at your side, you can get it all squared away with ease. Whatever you do, be sure to keep up your SR22 when you move. What truly matters is getting your freedom and autonomy back—with the help of an SR22, you can do just that.

What Happens if You Can’t Afford SR22 Insurance?

The prospect of needing SR22 insurance can feel very overwhelming. Any amount of change can be stressful, but if it’s something you feel isn’t financially feasible, the stress will only be that much worse. It begs the question: what happens if you can’t afford SR22 insurance? Here’s a complete outline of why you would need it, the typical costs, and what to do if you can’t afford it.

Why would you need an SR22?

It varies from person to person and case by case, but in general, there are a few common reasons for needing an SR22. These include convictions for:

• Driving while intoxicated
• Reckless driving
• Driving without a license

You may also need an SR22 if you obtain multiple driving convictions. When you’re found guilty of any these, you’re likely to be considered a “high-risk” driver. This results in the need to obtain special insurance in the form of an SR22, which will cost extra money on top of your usual car insurance.

What are the typical costs?

Again, the typical cost of an SR22 will vary from person to person, as it’s determined on an individual basis. Factors that impact the cost include your driving history, where you live, your age, and much more. On average, though, you can expect to spend between $300 to $800 dollars. For many people, unfortunately, this just isn’t something they can swing. Luckily, there are some ways you can mitigate that cost.

What if you can’t afford it?

Filing for an SR22 can be quite the financial burden—aside from the upfront cost, it also has the potential to drive up your normal insurance rates a significant amount—but there are still steps you can take. You may first go through your current auto insurance company to get a quote, but if you instead go through a company that specializes in SR22 and in finding you affordable insurance, you can find a much better rate. Working with them will allow you to find something that works for you so that you can keep your independence and your financials in check.

Don’t let worry take over your mentality. While it may seem impossible to obtain insurance now, by really researching your options and putting in the work, you’ll get there faster than you know. With the help of SR22 insurance, you can get back on the road and obtain your independence.

Who is Considered a High-Risk Driver?

We all know the term “high-risk driver,” but what does a high-risk driver actually look like? There are many different reasons an insurance company may deem you one, and they’re each vastly from one another. We may conjure up images of drivers swerving between lines and getting in multiple accidents, and while this is high-risk behavior, it can be much more nuanced. It begs the question: who is considered a high-risk driver? From the exact qualifications to how long it will last, here’s all you need to know about high-risk driving.

What makes you a high-risk driver?

There are many different factors that establish high-risk drivers. While sometimes this label involves factors you can’t change, like your age, most of the time it’s due to issues you’ve had while driving. Here’s a total breakdown of who is considered a high-risk driver and the actions that caused them to get that label.

Driving under the influence

It’s a given that if you’re found guilty of driving under the influence, you’re a high-risk driver. Even if it’s your first offense, drivers will typically see a surge in their insurance premiums and will most likely need to file for SR22 insurance. The actual severity will vary from person to person, so it’s dependent on your particular situation.

If you’re in need of SR22 insurance in Washington, New York, or anywhere in between, Serenity Group is here to help.

Young drivers

For teens just starting to drive, insurance companies may perceive you as higher-risk. Since you haven’t been driving for very long, you’re a riskier driver to take on, which in turns leads to more expensive insurance. There’s not much you can do about this one; however, as times goes on, insurance companies will no longer deem you a risk. Prove that you are reliable by never speeding, not getting into an at-fault accident, and always practicing caution and good driving methods while on the road.

Multiple speeding tickets

If you’ve got a need for speed that just won’t quit, you may seem some nasty hikes in your insurance cost. Drivers with multiple speeding tickets on their record are high-risk since their driving has the potential to cause an accident and harm themselves or others. The more reckless of a driver you are, the higher risk you are.

Low credit scores

When it comes to insurance companies, low credit scores will make you a trickier driver to take on. While it may not directly correlate to your driving, companies are still likely to take it into account. Your credit score is one way for insurers and lenders to see if you’re reliable. As such, the lower your score, the more likely you’ll be seen as a high-risk driver. However, as long as you diligently work to bring your credit up, you can relieve yourself of this moniker.

Multiple at-fault accidents

Just like those found speeding, if you’re found at-fault in multiple car accidents, insurance companies will usually view you as a high-risk driver. Due to the dangerous conditions you created and the fact that it happened multiple times, your insurance will probably be much more expensive. However, this follows a case-by-case basis. For example, insurers regard a minor fender-bender much differently than a major accident.

Will it last forever?

Luckily, if you receive the title of high-risk driver, it isn’t something that has to follow you forever. As time goes on, given you don’t cause any more violations, your risk level will decrease. Although this period will vary case by case, typically, your rates will begin to lower after being accident-free for three years. This is very dependent on your particular reasons for being high-risk. For example, DUIs are more serious than speeding tickets. Don’t get your hopes up too much or expect something unrealistic. Rather, work diligently toward improving your driving record.

Can you bring down the cost?

While high-risk drivers will see a higher cost on their insurance, there are still ways to bring it down. As long as you do the proper research and ask the right questions, you can see a significant decrease in price. We cover a few steps and methods you can use to lower costs.

Wait it out

One surefire way to bring down your insurance rates is to simply wait. No matter what other tactics you try, remember to be patient and continue practicing safe driving in the meantime. Before you know it, you may find your expenses start to decrease. However, if you get antsy and start going back to your old driving habits, you’re sure to see your insurance cost rise again. Typically, it takes at least three years to see rates go down, so keep the course—you’ll get there.

Search for discounts

When you use the right research techniques, it’s easier to find discounts than you may think. It’s an understatement to say there are several reasons you can get a discount. Some common discount qualifiers include:

• Not driving often
• Renewing your insurance in advance
• Homeowner’s discount
• Having a short commute

Take the time to inquire with your insurance company—it never hurts to ask if you could qualify for a discount.

Work on your safe driving habits

There are few ways as effective for saving money as simply driving safely. The best way to alleviate yourself of a high-risk driver title is to drive with caution every time you hit the road. If there are certain issues you deal with, such as speeding or experiencing road rage, it’s best to find ways to keep your cool in those situations. Everyone has different triggers for their dangerous behavior, so make note of what causes yours and take preventative measures.

If you fall into one of these high-risk driver categories, it may feel like the end of the world. Don’t let this get you down—it may feel daunting to have this label, but with hard work and perseverance, you can get back to driving freely and living the life you want.

Reasons You Might Need SR22 Insurance to Hit the Road Again

You may wonder when you need to obtain SR22 insurance. The policy can be tricky to understand, so it makes sense that many are confused. Keep yourself in the know, and educate yourself on the reasons you might need SR22 insurance.

Driving under the influence

If you’re found guilty of driving under the influence, you may need SR22 insurance. Since those who get a DUI are seen as a higher threat on the road, an SR22 is required to be insured. According to Insurance.com, your car insurance increases by an average of 80% after a DUI. It may seem like a huge blow, but with the right insurance company, you can find a solution that works for you.

Driving without insurance

You need insurance to drive in the first place, so there’s quite a penalty if you drive without it. Those caught driving without insurance may need to obtain SR22 insurance to drive again. You’ll also need to file for an SR22 before you can obtain new insurance.

Repeated traffic offenses

This one is more on a case-by-case basis, but repeated traffic offenses are a reason you might need SR22 insurance. If you continue to accumulate offenses, such as DUIs or reckless driving charges, it’s very possible that you’ll need SR22 insurance; otherwise, the severity of the charges may increase. The higher liability you are on the road, and the more dangerous you are to other drivers, the more likely it is that you’ll need SR22 insurance.

Being at-fault in an accident without insurance

Similar to driving without insurance, if you’re found at fault in an accident and do not have insurance, the need for SR22 insurance becomes much more likely. Any at-fault accident can do a number on your insurance rates, but if you cause an accident without insurance, a costly SR22 policy may be in your future.

No matter the reason you need cheap SR22 insurance, and no matter how overwhelmed you may feel, there’s still hope. Whether you need to obtain SR22 insurance in Denver, or in Las Vegas, with the help of qualified professionals, you can find insurance that works with your needs.

How Families Can Help a Recovering Alcoholic

Approximately 300 million people across the globe currently struggle with alcohol use disorder. As such, to say that alcoholism is something that affects nearly everyone would be an understatement. If your family member struggles with alcoholism, you know firsthand just how paralyzing it can feel. Thankfully, there are many ways you can be there for your loved one as they journey down the road to recovery. Here’s how families can help a recovering alcoholic, and how they can support them through their struggles and triumphs.

Educate yourself on alcoholism

While many people may think they know about alcoholism from television or movies, alcohol addiction is much more nuanced. Alcoholism affects everyone differently, and it is important to be aware of this so you aren’t going into conversations or situations blind. Education is a necessary component for supporting your family member. Consider inquiring about their personal experience, reading up on subjects such as triggers, learning about physical and psychological changes, and studying possible relapse signs.

Learn the signs of a relapse

As much as we would like to think recovery is a straight line, many people may experience a relapse. To circumvent this as much as possible, it’s important to educate yourself on the signs of a relapse. These may vary from person to person, but common signs include:

• the individual is withdrawing from others
• they’re experiencing rapid weight loss or weight gain
• they’re lashing out against others

It’s best to have a plan in place and set boundaries early on in case your family member does relapse. To best help them, host regular check-ins where you discuss their emotional and physical state. You can never be too proactive when it comes to recovery from alcoholism.

Remove possible triggers

Recovering alcoholics, no matter how strong they feel, may fall back to their old mindset due to certain triggers. These triggers come in a variety of forms and may give the person in recovery the urge to drink. Whether it’s passing a bar, seeing an empty alcohol bottle, pent-up negative emotions, or even just boredom, each poses its own threat to sobriety. If possible, remove those triggers from your home. Even if you drink on occasion, it’s important to keep that out of sight from your family member who is in recovery. 

Encourage them during recovery

The road to recovery is a long and often painful one, so your family member needs all the support they can get. One of the best ways families can help a recovering alcoholicis to encourage them and their healthy lifestyle choices. Through both your actions and your words, you can validate them, remind them that you’re proud, and encourage them however possible. It’s also important to encourage the following healthy activities:

Individual therapy

It may be tempting to act like your family member’s therapist, but that will just end up hurting both of you in the long run. While it’s important to be there for them, when it comes to true recovery, a licensed therapist knows how to facilitate lasting growth. As they try to find a therapist, encourage your family member that, although it may be uncomfortable at first, the support will be well worth it.

Family therapy

If your family really wants to get involved in your loved one’s recovery, family therapy is a great option. Not only will it educate everyone on alcohol addiction, but it will help people air any of their thoughts, grievances, or fears in a safe space. There are a lot of stressors that familial tension can bring out, and those stressors can even trigger a relapse. Nip those in the bud by talking altogether in a productive, healthy manner.

Support groups

For those who have struggled with alcoholism, it’s all too easy to feel isolated and alone. If it seems like your family member is turning inwardly, or lamenting about their past struggles, support groups could be the way to go. They offer a safe space to heal and provide your loved one with a supportive community of individuals who have been in the same shoes. It’s essential that, on the road to recovery, one doesn’t feel alone. A support group can help add that accountability and care.

Know that it may not always be smooth sailing

It is important to note that the road to recovery isn’t linear. There is always the looming threat of relapse, and your loved one will feel that weight every day for quite some time. While it’s important to be hopeful, it’s equally as important to be realistic. Rather than assuming everything will go perfectly, understand that there may be some rocky waters ahead. These hard times will be very painful for your family member, so it’s important to not show judgment during these times. Rather, give them the love and support they need, and nudge them back toward healthy forms of recovery.

Always show them love and support

At the end of the day, through the ups and downs of recovery, love and support are what everyone craves. Struggling with alcoholism can leave a person’s self-esteem and psyche damaged. As such, they may have feelings of guilt, pain, and unworthiness. As a family member who loves them, you can help foster positivity and healing within their life. There are many tools and tips to follow, but at the core, it’s important to remember that kindness can take you a long, long way.

It can often feel like you’re helpless when watching your family member struggle with alcoholism and recovery. However, there are real ways you can help them through the process and back to the life they’ve dreamed of, and obtaining independence is a big part of this. Whether it’s helping them obtain SR22 insurance in Las Vegas, Chicago, or any other city, or encouraging them to go to counseling, each is a step toward a better life. With the right techniques and care, your family member can get the support they need throughout the recovery process.

States with the Strictest Driving Laws

No matter where you cruise, it’s important to stay alert and aware of the driving laws. Laws vary from state to state, however, which means some punishments will be harsher than others. Here is a breakdown of the states with the strictest driving laws.

Delaware

Generally considered to be the state with the strictest driving laws, Delaware certainly cracks down on any law-breaking drivers. They’re quite strict about enforcing speed limits, but reckless driving charges are where things get serious. If you’re a first-time offender, you’ll receive a fine between $100 to $300, or you may face between 10 to 30 days in jail—some may even face both. For those caught driving recklessly again, fines will increase between $300 to $1,000, with subsequent jail times between 30 and 60 days.

California

California has multiple strict driving laws, but they really crack down on DUIs. Fines up to $2,000, 48 hours in jail, or mandatory education programs are all possible consequences for any drivers found guilty of driving under the influence on their first offense. Although the blood alcohol limit is 0.08%, if the police can prove your driving was impaired by any alcohol consumption, you can still be charged if you’re under that limit.

Georgia

Speeding was quite an issue in Georgia, and that’s why the Super Speeder ticket came into existence in 2010. This ticket specifies that if you go over a certain speed limit on either a two-lane road or highway, you’ll pay any fines or fees, as well as a flat $200 fee on top of that. Make sure you pay that fee in a timely manner; if you wait more than 120 days, your license will be suspended.

Maine

Driving in Maine may be scenic, but don’t let those sights distract you. Maine cracks down on drivers found driving under the influence, driving recklessly, or drivers that fail to use their seatbelt properly. Maine also has the Zero Tolerance Law; if you’re under the age of 21 and found driving with any alcohol in your body, your license is revoked for a year.

Oregon

Oregon cracks down on reckless driving in a major way, and their driving laws reflect that. They tout the country’s highest maximum fine for first-time offenders, which clocks in at a maximum of $6,250. On top of the fine, those convicted also face the possibility of one year in jail and five years of probation.

In New York State alone, from 2011 to 2016, tickets given for texting while driving increased by 918%. Distracted driving, reckless driving, and driving under the influence have serious consequences; if you find yourself without a license as a result of these offenses, we’re here to help. With our SR22 online services, those in need of an SR22 can start down the road toward recovering their driving record.

Key Differences Between the SR22 and FR44 Insurance Policies

You’ve most likely heard of an SR22, but there’s another insurance filing to keep in mind—an FR44. Currently, only two states, Virginia and Florida, use SR22 and FR44. If you reside in either of those states, take note of the essential differences between the SR22 and FR44 insurance policies.

What is an SR22?

An SR22, while often referred to as a form of insurance, is, in fact, a certificate that allows a driver to obtain coverage after a serious event. An individual may need SR22 for a variety of reasons, including a DUI conviction, engaging in reckless driving, or driving without a license. The state sees these drivers as a “high-risk,” and as such, need to take an extra step to obtain insurance.

What is an FR44?

If you’re a driver in either Virginia or Florida, you may need to obtain an FR44. Similar to the SR22, for the FR44 in Virginia, you’ll need to get one if you’re a high-risk driver due to any of the aforementioned reasons. It’s a bit different in Florida, in that a driver will only need this in the case of driving under the influence. The FR44 certification is for more serious cases, and the actual ruling will vary on a case-by-case basis. If you’re hoping to get back on the road after these issues, an FR44 is what you’ll need.

What are the differences?

While an SR22 and an FR44 may seem interchangeable, there are some major differences those affected need to be aware of. One of the greatest differences between the SR22 and FR44 insurance policies is the cost of minimum liability car insurance coverage. For the FR44, this will be much higher than usual, even when compared to an SR22. Below are the normal liability coverage requirements:

Virginia:

• $40,000 for property damage liability
• $50,000 for injury or death to one person
• $100,000 for injury or death of more than one person

Florida:

• $50,000 for property damage liability
• $100,000 for injury or death to one person
• $300,000 for injury or death to more than one person

If your case requires an FR44, it’s important to know that the costs will be higher. However, there’s no need to lose hope, as insurance companies that offer SR22 will be there to help you figure out your best options. The road toward your new life may not always be easy, but with the right help at your side, you’ll find that your future is bright.

Mental, Physical, and Behavioral Signs of an Addiction

Alcohol is a commonly abused substance, and its use is on the rise. In 2018, spending on alcoholic beverages in the U.S. increased by more than 5%, or approximately $12.4 billion. Correspondingly, alcohol-related deaths have increased by 35% during the past decade or so. No matter what substance is used or how an addiction manifests itself, few things are as painful as addiction. While many people think addiction is black-and-white and therefore easy to identify, it can be much more nuanced than that. Signs of addiction can be insidious and difficult to identify for both the sufferer and their loved ones. Here are some key signs to help you recognize you have an addiction so that you can take the next steps toward getting your life back.

Mental Signs

The signs of addiction may not be immediately visible or physically evident: addiction can wreak havoc on the sufferer’s mental health, as well. As such, there are several mental symptoms that could indicate an addiction:

Obsession with the substance

For those overcome by addiction, the substance to which they’re addicted can consume their thoughts and become an obsession. If you constantly worry about where you’ll get your next supply or plan out when you’ll consume it next, you may be facing an addiction.

Erratic thinking or reasoning

When your mind is wracked by addiction, your thinking and reasoning won’t be rational. Addicted individuals will jump through mental hoops to justify or rationalize their addiction in order to satisfy their cravings. They may also spend most of their money on the substance to which they’re addicted or even steal in order to obtain it. In short, if you’re suffering from an addiction, you won’t have the ability to think straight.

Turning to the substance in times of stress

Stress and anxiety are unpleasant for anyone, but for people with addictions, they can truly feel insurmountable. They may trigger a psychological urge in you to turn to the substance to which you’re addicted as a form of relief.

Physical Signs

While physical signs may not be clear at the onset of an addiction, they’ll likely become more prominent over time. Keep an eye out for any of these physical indicators if you believe you may be suffering from an addiction—even something small could be very telling.

Withdrawal

Withdrawal occurs when the body is deprived of the substance to which it’s addicted, causing unpleasant side effects. These symptoms will vary from person to person, but they commonly include intense cravings, seizures, erratic behavior, sweats, and much more. Side effects of withdrawal also wildly differ depending on the substance, so you should stay in tune with your body and remain wary of any possible signs of withdrawal.

Weight fluctuation

Extreme weight fluctuations can also be indicators of an addiction. For example, an addiction to cocaine will often leave the addict much thinner, possibly even malnourished. On the other hand, alcohol abuse may cause the individual to experience weight gain and bloating. Either extreme are a sign that you should reevaluate your substance use and really ruminate on the possibly of an addiction.

Higher tolerance for the substance

At first, it may not take much for an addict to get their fix. Small quantities of a substance may give them their desired state of being. However, as the addiction becomes more severe, they’ll need to consume more and more of the substance to reach the same level. This increased need is a result of the body’s increasing tolerance: a substance’s effects on the body will lessen the more it’s consumed. If you find yourself consuming a substance in increasing quantities and more frequently, you may be developing a higher tolerance, which can lead to addiction.

Behavioral Signs

Addiction intensely affects people not only mentally and physically, but also behaviorally. The following signs aren’t just signals of moodiness or laziness—they may also be symptoms of a serious addiction.

Social isolation

Participating in social activities can become increasingly difficult as one’s addiction intensifies, eventually resulting in social isolation. For many addicts, this isolation may also result from a lack of access to their preferred substance during social outings. Other people may be ashamed of their addiction, causing them to withdraw from their loved ones rather than allow their friends and family members to see them in that state. Whether it’s due to physical or emotional torment, if you find yourself removing yourself from social situations that once brought you joy, you may be facing an addiction.

Denial

Even if the signs are apparent to others, people suffering from an addiction may find it much more difficult to admit their habit. If a loved one brings up their concerns, you may find yourself brushing off these concerns and claim that your addiction isn’t truly an issue. If you’re so entrenched in your substance abuse that you don’t recognize—or don’t want to recognize—your addiction, it may be time to seek help.

Missing work or school

When struggling with an addiction, someone who is usually punctual and dedicated to their work may suddenly have issues with attendance or quit altogether. Addiction makes responsibilities such as a job or schoolwork incredibly difficult to keep up with, and sufferers will often find it impossible to carry on with their usual responsibilities. This could be for physical reasons such as intoxication, which can render them unable to function. This could also be because they can’t consume the substance at work. An inability to lead a normal life without the substance is a huge red flag that you’re facing an addiction.

Addiction affects every individual differently, but no matter how it manifests in you, getting yourself the help you need is important. Addiction is a disease, and you can’t overcome it alone. Confide in your loved ones, allow yourself to face the reality that you’re suffering from an addiction, and take the necessary steps to get treatment. In the moment, addiction may seem insurmountable. But you can overcome addiction and work to reclaim the life you deserve. For those who have successfully recovered from addiction and want to regain their independence, our SR22 insurance in Las Vegas, Denver, and several other areas can help you get your life back on track.

How to Get a Job with a DUI on Record: 4 Helpful Pointers

Job hunting is tough—in early 2019, the U.S. unemployment rate was between 3.8 and 4 percent, meaning there are quite a few others in the same predicament. Once you add in a DUI on your record, it becomes exponentially more difficult. While you may feel like giving up, don’t lose hope. Here are some helpful tips on how to get a job with a DUI on record.

Try to clear it from your record

Your first step should be trying to clear the conviction from your record. Your end result will vary greatly depending on your personal situation and other factors, but it’s always worth a shot. Speak with your local DMV to see how you could go about trying to remove those charges. If this isn’t a possibility, however, there are still other ways to get a job with a DUI on record.

Have realistic expectations

At the end of the day, it’s simply going to be more difficult to find a job if you have a DUI on record. The most important thing is to not let it discourage you, so make sure you go in with realistic expectations. Your job search may be a long one, and you may not land every interview that interests you. But with hard work and determination, you’ll find a job that works for you.

Exude confidence

With a DUI on your record, it’s possible that your employer is already letting it color their judgment of you. Don’t let this discourage you—rather, use it as an opportunity for you to put your best foot forward. Prepare in advance for the interview by practicing your responses ahead of time, being comfortable talking about your DUI if it comes up, and showing up to the interview on time. This confidence shows your interviewer that you respect their time, and they’ll have a more positive opinion of you.

Obtain SR22 insurance

To effectively job search, and consequently travel to and from your new job, SR22 insurance is a must. After the state suspends your license for a DUI, SR22 insurance is the way to get back on your feet and safely back on the road. From SR22 insurance in Washington to SR22 insurance in New York, each state will vary slightly. As such, you should investigate your local laws and regulations. Driving will give you the mobility you need to make the job search that much more achievable.

No matter your situation, one necessary component of any job search is perseverance. The hunt itself is a full-time commitment, so the best course of action is to throw yourself into it. With the right attitude and preparation, it’s more attainable than you think.

Seeking Help for Alcohol Addiction: You’re Not Alone

Untreated alcohol addiction is truly an epidemic—according to Addiction Center, “about 15 million people have an alcohol use disorder, but only  about 7% of Americans who are addicted to alcohol ever receive treatment.” No matter the statistics, you don’t have to tackle it alone. There are numerous resources and tools out there for those seeking help for alcohol addiction. While it can be a scary notion, it’s important to take the first steps toward a life free from an alcohol use disorder.

Identifying Alcohol Addiction

The first step toward seeking help for alcohol addiction is identifying your condition. There are many different stages of alcoholism, and no two people will have the same situations or symptoms. Below we outline the general progression of an alcohol use disorder.

Pre-Alcoholic

As denoted by the name, at this stage, there are little to no signs of a drinking problem. Individuals will mostly confine drinking to social situations. However, the issue can develop if the underlying reasons for drinking aren’t healthy. Typically, the person begins to build up tolerance during this stage. As such, they drink with more frequency to alleviate stress, anxiety, or painful memories.

Early Stage

At this point, drinking will become both a need and a source of discomfort for the person. Blacking out will occur at this stage, and they may lie to family and friends about the extent of their drinking. Tolerance will continue to grow, and alcohol will consume a person’s day-to-day thoughts.

Middle Stage

Once someone reaches the middle stage of alcoholism, symptoms will become clear to others. They will begin to miss obligations due to the side effects of drinking. These individuals may even drink during situations such as work or other social obligations. Those afflicted often experience irritability, weight gain, and sluggishness, among other side effects.  

Late Stage

For those that are in the late stage of alcoholism, the drinking has become truly life-threatening. Drinking will become a constant activity, occurring from the moment the person first wakes up. Job loss will likely occur before or during this stage. Attempting to stop drinking will often result in tremors or hallucinations; however, detox and rehabilitation can help immensely.

Getting Diagnosed

A doctor will be able to diagnose an individual with an alcohol use disorder. This is someone who cannot control their drinking and is distraught physically and emotionally when they are sober. Once you’re in and talking with a doctor, they can be a huge advocate for ways in which to overcome your alcohol addiction.

Treatment Programs

There is no one way to treat alcoholism—rather, there are several methods to choose from based on the specific person’s needs and condition. Some people utilize a number of these, while others have one treatment program that works for them. The following are common programs you’ll find when seeking treatment.

Detox

While detox alone isn’t a treatment program, it’s the first step for most people who are suffering from alcoholism. The detox period is when someone suddenly stops drinking and consequently faces serious symptoms. These include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Shaky hands
• Hallucinations
• Changes in blood pressure and heart rate

The detox period will vary from person to person, possibly lasting over a week. Professionals advise that you go through a program with medical supervision. With the support of specialists, family, and friends, you’ll have the physical and emotional aid you need to get through this trying time.

Rehab

While detox addresses the physical addiction of alcohol, rehab focuses on psychological dependence. Rehab stays typically last a month. Those who attend will receive one-on-one therapy, relapse prevention tools, a renewed support network, and other therapeutic activities. Rehab is all about total wellness, and it can help give you the tools to fight the battle that is an addiction.

Regularly see a therapist

Once you do leave a treatment center, it’s important to keep your wellness in check. It’s a good idea to see a counselor or therapist who specializes in helping those with alcohol addiction. They can help you navigate your daily struggles, and they’ll give you the tools to deal with possible triggers such as stress or anxiety.

Confide in Loved Ones

Shame is one of the biggest things stopping those suffering from alcoholism from getting help. Rather than turning away from the world, turn to your loved ones for the support, accountability, and guidance you need. The most dangerous thing for someone with an addiction is isolation. This can lead to a vicious cycle of turning to alcohol for comfort as opposed to those around them. It’s essential to create a network of support around you, so you have people to turn to when you’re facing dangerous thoughts or behaviors.

Triggers to Avoid

After you’ve received treatment and overcome your alcohol addiction, you’re still likely to experience triggers and temptations. That’s why it’s important to learn how to avoid these triggers and (if they’re unavoidable) how to effectively deal with them. Common triggers include:

• High-stress situations, whether at work or home
• Being around others who are drinking
• Places or activities where you used to drink alcohol

Addiction is entirely personal, and even the most seemingly innocuous of activities or situations can be triggering for those with alcohol addiction. When you simply can’t avoid these situations, utilize the tools a therapist or counselor provides you.

Join Support Groups

Nothing can hold you accountable quite like a community. Alcohol addiction support groups are a great way to connect with people who understand exactly what you’re going through. If you’re afraid of judgment or shame, these groups are especially helpful, as they generally keep their membership completely anonymous. This continued form of both accountability and support is a tried and true way to sustain your recovery for years to come.

Above all else, if you’re struggling with alcohol addiction, know that you’re not alone. There’s an entire world of resources, people, and loved ones looking to support you in your journey toward recovery. If you’re looking to get your life back on track and regain your independence, Serenity Group can help. We offer SR22 insurance in Denver, Chicago, and other locations across the United States. It may be a difficult journey, but in the end, the road to recovery is more than worth it.