Getting Help Is a Sign of Strength

Resources and support for those concerned about alcohol use and liver health

Taking the First Step

Recognizing that you or someone you care about may have an unhealthy relationship with alcohol is the first step toward better health. Whether you're seeking information, support, or treatment options, resources are available to help you at every stage of your journey.

Immediate Help

If you're experiencing a medical emergency related to alcohol use or withdrawal, please call emergency services (911) immediately or go to your nearest emergency room.

National Alcohol Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

Medical Assessment

If you're concerned about your liver health or alcohol consumption patterns, speaking with a healthcare provider is an important first step.

What to Expect:

  • A medical history review and physical examination
  • Blood tests to check liver function
  • Discussion about alcohol use patterns
  • Recommendations for next steps

Don't have a regular doctor?

Find a liver specialist near you

Support Groups

Connecting with others who understand your experience can provide emotional support and practical advice for recovery.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

Peer support groups based on the 12-step program. Meetings are available in-person and online.

Find a meeting

SMART Recovery

Self-Management and Recovery Training program offering alternative support to 12-step programs.

Learn more

Family Support

Al-Anon and other programs provide support for family members affected by a loved one's drinking.

Find family support

Treatment Options

Treatment for alcohol use disorder and liver disease varies based on individual needs and the severity of the condition.

Outpatient Programs

Regular counseling and support while maintaining your normal daily routine.

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)

More structured treatment several days a week while still living at home.

Inpatient/Residential Treatment

Full-time care in a treatment facility, typically for 30-90 days.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

Medications to manage cravings and withdrawal, combined with counseling.

Find treatment centers near you

Concerned About Your Drinking?

Take this confidential self-assessment to help evaluate your relationship with alcohol. This is not a diagnostic tool but can help you determine if you should seek professional guidance.

Take the Self-Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have a drinking problem?

Signs that your drinking may be problematic include:

  • Drinking more or longer than you intended
  • Wanting to cut down but being unable to
  • Spending significant time drinking or recovering from drinking
  • Experiencing cravings
  • Finding that drinking interferes with responsibilities or relationships
  • Continuing to drink despite negative consequences
  • Developing tolerance (needing more alcohol to achieve the same effect)
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking

If you identify with several of these signs, consider speaking with a healthcare provider.

What tests can check for liver damage?

Several tests can help assess liver health:

  • Blood tests: Liver function tests (LFTs) measure levels of enzymes and proteins that indicate liver health
  • Imaging tests: Ultrasound, CT, or MRI can show the size, shape, and texture of the liver
  • FibroScan: A specialized ultrasound that measures liver stiffness (an indicator of scarring)
  • Liver biopsy: A sample of liver tissue is examined under a microscope (usually only when other tests are inconclusive)

Your healthcare provider can determine which tests are appropriate based on your situation.

Can I recover from alcohol-related liver damage?

The liver has remarkable regenerative capabilities, but recovery depends on the stage of liver damage:

  • Fatty liver: Often completely reversible with abstinence from alcohol
  • Alcoholic hepatitis: Partial to significant recovery is possible if alcohol is completely avoided
  • Cirrhosis: Existing scarring is generally permanent, but stopping alcohol can prevent further damage and allow the remaining healthy liver tissue to compensate

Regardless of the stage, stopping alcohol consumption is the most important step. Early intervention leads to better outcomes.

What can I expect during alcohol withdrawal?

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe and typically begin within 6-24 hours after the last drink:

  • Mild symptoms: Anxiety, restlessness, nausea, sweating, insomnia, and tremors
  • Moderate symptoms: Increased heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, confusion, and irritability
  • Severe symptoms (delirium tremens): Hallucinations, seizures, severe confusion, and agitation

Due to potentially dangerous complications, medical supervision is recommended when stopping alcohol after prolonged heavy use. Never attempt to detox alone if you've been drinking heavily or for an extended period.