Alcohol Detox

Deciding to go through alcohol detox isn’t easy.  Most individuals worry about being away from family, work, or school.  Far too often, the fear of withdrawal symptoms keeps many people from getting the help they need.  Also, denial about the extent of their alcohol abuse prevents many individuals from seeking treatment.  Despite these fears and concerns, alcohol detox is the safest, most effective solution for alcohol use disorder.

What is Alcohol Detox?

Detox is the first step in treating alcohol use disorder (AUD).  But, to achieve long-term recovery a person must go through both detox and rehab to get the desired outcome.  

Alcohol detox is vital to recovery due to the way alcohol affects the person’s mind and body.  The toxins created by alcohol can remain in the body causing withdrawals symptoms that force the person to continue their alcohol use.  But, during detox, the body eliminates those toxins, reduces cravings, and prepares the individual for the rehab stage of treatment.

Initial Stage of Alcohol Detox

The detox process begins with an assessment to determine the level of care a client may need.  A professional who specializes in addiction and recovery will conduct the consultation. The potential client’s medical history and health conditions are evaluated. This assessment is necessary for creating the right treatment plan for the client.  

Treatment plans can include medical detox or holistic treatment on an inpatient or outpatient basis.   For individuals with severe AUD, inpatient detox is the best option. 

Medical detox involves using medications during treatment.  Benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, and antipsychotics are some of the substances available.  These medications help a person safely manage withdrawal symptoms. 

Holistic detox is a natural or non-medical approach to treatment.  It focuses on bringing the body, mind, and spirit into alignment to achieve overall wellbeing.

The initial stage of detox can be intense for most people.  Withdrawal symptoms can range from uncomfortable to life-threatening, depending on the severity of the AUD.  The period of withdrawal can last up to seven days in some cases.  

What Causes Alcohol Addiction?

Studies show that alcohol addiction can begin long before a person takes their first drink.  For instance, genetics play a significant role in a person’s perceptions and attitudes about drinking alcohol.  Furthermore, a family history of alcohol abuse can also influence a person’s decision to consume alcohol.  

Other factors that contribute to alcohol use or abuse include emotional or mental problems such as depression and low self-esteem.  Peer pressure and the desire to fit in with the crowd lead many youths to begin drinking.  

When alcohol enters the body, many changes take place.  First, alcohol works as a depressant to slow down the central nervous system.  This effect causes a sensation of relaxation, lowered inhibitions, and increased confidence.  Next, physical effects such as poor coordination, memory problems, and the inability to make sound decisions are experienced.

Repeated alcohol use can lead a person to feel like they need alcohol to help them cope with daily stress.  Over time, more of the substance is needed to get the desired effects.

Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Use Disorder

It’s often easy to ignore the warning signs of AUD until drastic issues occur.  Studies show that the longer a person waits to quit drinking, the harder it will be to overcome the addiction.  Also, prolonged drinking can cause a variety of health problems that can be life-threatening.  So, to determine if it’s time to enter alcohol detox, a person must be aware of these signs and symptoms of AUD:

• Unable to limit the amount of alcohol consumed.
• Failing to quit or cut down regardless of the desire to do so.
• Alcohol is the primary focus each day.
• Neglecting daily responsibilities such as work, school, or family.
• Giving up activities that were once enjoyable.
• More alcohol is needed to feel the desired effects.
• Continuing to drink despite adverse consequences.
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when alcohol is withheld.

For many individuals, an intervention is necessary to help them overcome denial and seek treatment.  

Benefits of Alcohol Detox

Many people fail at overcoming alcohol use disorder on their own because they don’t understand the complexities of the addiction.  In most instances, the person quits for a while, only to relapse again and again.  This pattern will likely continue unless professional detox is pursued.

The most significant benefit of alcohol detox is safety.  Medical professionals oversee the process and they know how to respond if withdrawal symptoms prove to be too difficult.  

During alcohol detox, mental issues can also be a complication that requires medical attention.  With professional detox programs, individuals receive counseling and guidance to help clients manage any psychological symptoms that occur.

Physical and Psychological Aspects of Alcohol Detox

When withdrawal symptoms appear during detox, the physical symptoms occur more quickly than the psychological symptoms.  With alcohol withdrawal, the physical symptoms can appear within a few hours.  The psychological withdrawal symptoms may take longer to appear, but they can be more difficult to manage than physical withdrawal.

Physical withdrawal symptoms can include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Headaches
• Muscle aches and pains
• Shakiness
• Insomnia
• Sweating
• Rapid heart rate
• Fever, chills
• Seizures (with severe AUD)

Psychological withdrawal symptoms can include: 

• Depression, suicidal ideations
• Anxiety, irritability, mood swings
• Sensitivity to environmental stimulation
• Confusion
• Delusions
• Hallucinations
• Severe cravings

The above withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous depending on the severity of the addiction.  For that reason, professional alcohol detox is the best option for ensuring a safe, effective outcome.  

Choosing the Best Alcohol Detox Plan

At Design for Change Recovery, our onsite alcohol detox program assures clients of supportive, professional monitoring throughout each step of the process.  Also, we provide a customized detox plan based on each client’s particular needs to ensure their safety and comfort at all times.

Overcoming AUD involves more than merely deciding not to drink.  Alcohol addiction involves mental, emotional, environmental, and spiritual factors.  In order to achieve lasting recovery, each factor must be addressed.  Design for Change Recovery offers a comprehensive, customized treatment plan that adapts to each client’s unique needs.

Some of the things to consider when choosing a detox program:

• Is the program outpatient or inpatient?
• Do they treat dual-diagnosis patients?
• How long does detox take?
• Is the location suitable for my needs?
• What is the cost and is it covered by insurance?
• Do they offer considerations for sexual orientation, religion, age, or physical health?

Finding the right detox and rehab for your needs can be exasperating.  One way to learn about the program is to talk to one of the representatives by phone or in person.  Most facilities will be pleased that you called and will answer any questions you may have.

Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder at Design for Change Recovery

Our program at Design for Change Recovery includes three steps.  (1) detox, (2) rehabilitation, and (3) an aftercare plan.  After completing our alcohol detox, clients easily transition to our rehabilitation program to continue their recovery.  When leaving our facility, clients enjoy continued guidance and support through our aftercare program.  

After alcohol detox, our clients benefit from treatment options such as outpatient or inpatient programs, holistic therapy, family therapy, first responders wellness programs, and aftercare.  During treatment, clients attend workshops and activities that focus on improving self-esteem, rebuilding confidence, and gaining the skills to prevent relapse.  

You do not have to battle alcohol use disorder alone.  At our Lancaster, California facility, you’ll receive the support, compassion, and guidance you need during this sensitive time.  Contact us now to learn more about our programs and how we can help you reclaim your future.