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5 Types of Alcoholics
Alpha Type
Beta Type
Delta Type
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Gamma Type
Epsilon Type
There Isn't Just One Alcoholism
There are 5 different types of alcohol problems with:​
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Different Drinking Patterns
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Different Types of Dependency
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Different Motivations for Drinking
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Different Physical and Mental Health Concerns
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Different Responses to the ReNova Healing Experience
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Alpha Type
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Alpha Type alcoholics are often referred to as 'functional' alcoholics. Many people who know them casually or in business may not be aware of their drinking problem. That's because they are able to not drink excessively unless and until they are safe to do so. They may have either severe or moderate level of alcoholism but are usually physically dependent. Low grade depression is often a concern. Personal life issues are often heavily affected by their drinking. This type of alcoholism progresses to more serious Delta Type Alcoholism in about 50% of cases over a period of time.
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Good ReNova Candidate? = Yes
Good Moderation Candidate? = Yes
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Beta Type
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Beta Type alcoholics are commonly thought of as binge drinkers. Like many people during their college years, this type will drink to excessive intoxication. Usually Beta Types are not daily drinkers to begin with, but over time can progress to daily use. Black out drinking is common. This sub-type of alcoholism often responds better to moderation with the ReNova Healing Experience than to sobriety.
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Good ReNova Candidate? = Yes
Good Moderation Candidate? = Yes
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Delta Type
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Delta Type alcoholics are usually thought of as 'real boozers'. Unlike Alpha Alcoholics most people who know them are aware they have a drinking problem even though they don't address it with them in normal circumstances. They are usually able to still function in most respects but often have trouble directly related to their alcohol use, such as DWI's, job or promotion losses, divorce etc. Delta types drink daily under most circumstances. They are physically dependent on alcohol. Alcohol related anxiety/depression is almost always an issue.
Good ReNova Candidates? = Yes
Good Moderation Candidates = Yes
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Gamma Type
Gamma Type alcoholics are fairly rare compared to other types, yet ironically, they are what people think of most when they think of alcoholics. Commonly referred as the ‘drunk' or sometimes 'the wino’. This type is unable to abstain sufficiently for normal functioning and unable to moderate their consumption despite the most adverse consequences. Physiological dependence occurs. Common life circumstances such as family, employment, housing and other essentials are often not maintained. Drinking upon awakening is common.
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Good ReNova Candidate? = Possibly
Good Moderation Candidate? = Limited Circumstances
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Epsilon Type
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Commonly is referred to as a ‘periodic alcoholic’. A rare alcoholism subtype. This subtype can abstain for long periods with no desire for alcohol, or conversely, can drink well within normal social limits for long periods of time. This type will then experience strong cravings and will drink in extreme excess for very brief periods, before reverting to either abstinence with no desire for alcohol, or normal limited drinking. It is believed to be caused by a sudden catastrophic reaction in the brain’s neurotransmitter chemical cascade. This type of alcohol problem is generally not a good candidate for the ReNova Method for either sobriety or moderation. Nor are they usually good candidates for standard alcoholism treatment programs or support groups. Instead, upon a doctor's advice, they should consider a combination of two medications: Naltrexone and Acamprosate. These two medications work differently to reduce the desire for alcohol and can be used in combination for greater safety. Individual standard alcoholism counseling is recommended on an ongoing basis.
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Good ReNova Candidate? = No