Alcohol Addiction Treatment and Rehab in Portsmouth New Hampshire

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition characterized by an inability to control or stop drinking despite negative consequences. It exists on a spectrum from mild to severe — you don't have to be drinking every day to qualify.

Common signs include drinking more than intended, failed attempts to cut back, continued drinking despite relationship or health problems, and strong cravings. A clinical assessment with a qualified professional is the most reliable way to get a clear picture of where you stand.

Yes — alcohol withdrawal is one of the few substance withdrawals that can be medically dangerous, and in some cases life-threatening. Symptoms can include seizures and, in severe cases, a condition called delirium tremens (DTs).

This is why it's strongly advised never to stop drinking cold turkey without medical supervision, especially after heavy or prolonged use. A medically supervised detox ensures you're safe and stable before beginning treatment.

BayPoint Health does not provide detox directly, but our team can help connect you with the right detox facility before you begin our program.

PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program) is the most intensive level — typically five days a week for several hours each day. It's best for people who need significant structure but don't require overnight residential care.

IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) meets three to four days a week and offers more flexibility, making it easier to maintain work or family responsibilities.

Outpatient care is the least intensive level — typically one to two days a week — and is best suited for people who have stabilized and are focused on maintaining long-term recovery.

Our admissions team can help you figure out which level is the right fit. Learn more about our PHP, IOP, and outpatient programs.

Not necessarily. BayPoint Health's outpatient programs — including IOP and outpatient care — are specifically designed to work around your life. Many clients maintain their jobs and family responsibilities while in treatment. We offer flexible scheduling including evening sessions so that getting help doesn't mean putting everything else on hold. PHP requires more time commitment, but even that doesn't involve overnight stays. If you're concerned about work, our admissions team can walk you through scheduling options and your rights under FMLA.

Most major insurance plans cover alcohol addiction treatment. Under the Affordable Care Act, substance use disorder treatment is classified as an essential health benefit — meaning insurers are required to cover it at the same level as other medical conditions. BayPoint Health works with most major insurance providers. Our admissions team will verify your benefits for you before you commit to anything, so you know exactly what's covered and what to expect. Contact us to verify your insurance.

This is one of the most common things we hear — and it's one of the most important things to address. Relapse or previous unsuccessful attempts don't mean recovery isn't possible for you. They often mean that the right level of support wasn't in place. Alcohol use disorder is a medical condition, not a willpower problem. Many people require multiple attempts before finding the right combination of treatment, support, and timing that works. If anything, a previous attempt means you already know something about what hasn't worked — which is useful information for building a better plan this time.

There are three FDA-approved medications for alcohol use disorder.

Naltrexone reduces cravings and blocks the pleasurable effects of alcohol. It's available as a daily pill or a monthly injection (Vivitrol).

Acamprosate helps reduce the discomfort of early sobriety — including anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia — by stabilizing brain chemistry.

Disulfiram (Antabuse) works as a deterrent by causing unpleasant physical reactions if alcohol is consumed. These medications are most effective when used alongside therapy and are nothing to be ashamed of — they're evidence-based medicine that significantly improves outcomes.

There's no single answer — treatment length depends on the severity of the disorder, your history, and how you're progressing. PHP programs typically run for several weeks, IOP for eight to twelve weeks, and outpatient care can continue for months as a maintenance support. What matters more than a fixed timeline is that the level of care matches where you are at each stage. BayPoint's clinical team monitors your progress continuously and adjusts your plan accordingly — the goal is always the right care for the right amount of time, not a one-size-fits-all schedule.

Absolutely — and in fact, it's very common. Around 60% of people with alcohol use disorder also experience a co-occurring mental health condition like depression, anxiety, or PTSD. BayPoint Health specializes in dual diagnosis treatment, meaning we treat both conditions together as part of one integrated plan. Treating only the alcohol use without addressing the underlying mental health condition is one of the leading reasons people relapse — which is why our whole-person approach matters so much. Learn more about our approach to PTSD treatment.

Yes. Your privacy is protected by federal law under HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2, which provides additional confidentiality protections specifically for substance use disorder treatment records. Your employer, family members, and others cannot access your treatment information without your written consent. Many people worry that seeking treatment will affect their job or reputation — in reality, the law is on your side. Our admissions team is happy to walk you through exactly how your information is protected.

Your admissions team will give you a full rundown before your first day so there are no surprises. Generally speaking, you'll want to bring a valid photo ID, your insurance card, a list of any current medications, and comfortable clothing. More importantly — bring yourself, as you are. You don't need to have everything figured out or be at any particular stage of "ready." The first day is mostly about getting to know you and helping you settle in. Our team has seen it all and will meet you with zero judgment.

The first step is simply reaching out. You can call us directly or fill out our contact form at baypointhealth.com/contact-us and someone from our admissions team will get back to you promptly. From there, we'll talk through your situation, verify your insurance, and schedule a clinical assessment — all before you commit to anything. BayPoint Health is located in Portsmouth and proudly serves the Seacoast region including Dover, Rochester, Concord, Manchester, and communities throughout New Hampshire.