Timeline: Detox begins within hours of the last drink and progresses through three stages—early, peak, and weakening—lasting from a few days to weeks.
Feelings/Emotions: Expect anxiety, depression, and physical symptoms like nausea and tremors, with severe cases experiencing hallucinations and seizures.
Alcohol Detox Process: Medical supervision, medication to ease symptoms, and continuous support. Do not attempt detox at home.
Safety/Security: Professional detox centers ensure safe withdrawal and manage complications.
Next Steps: Transition to long-term sobriety programs, therapy, and developing new habits.
Alcohol is a common part of life for many, but for nearly 15 million people in the U.S., it leads to a severe addiction. If you or a loved one is among those struggling, it’s important to understand that recovery is possible with the right support.
Alcohol detox is the critical first step in overcoming addiction. It involves flushing out alcohol from your body, allowing it to heal and begin the recovery journey. This process can be challenging, with symptoms ranging from uncomfortable to life-threatening. Professional treatment provides the necessary support to manage these symptoms safely.
Alcohol acts as a depressant, altering the brain’s chemistry over time. When you stop drinking, your body goes through withdrawal as it adjusts to the absence of alcohol. Symptoms can include anxiety, depression, and in severe cases, delirium tremens—a condition with hallucinations and seizures.
Our drug & alcohol rehab programs accept many national insurance plans and is in-network with most carriers including HealthNet, MHN, Anthem BlueCross, Aetna, Cigna as well as others. To verify if your insurance is accepted and check your out-of-pocket costs call Ranch Creek Recovery at (877) 997-8931.
Attempting to detox at home can be dangerous due to the severe withdrawal symptoms. Professional detox centers offer medications like benzodiazepines to ease these symptoms and provide continuous monitoring to ensure your safety.
The DSM-5 outlines criteria for diagnosing alcohol use disorder. Key signs include a strong craving for alcohol, inability to control drinking, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms. If these signs are present, seeking professional help is crucial.
For those with severe addiction, inpatient care offers a controlled environment where medical professionals can address withdrawal symptoms immediately. This reduces the risk of complications such as alcohol hallucinosis and seizures.
The duration and severity of detox depend on several factors, including the length of alcohol use, the individual’s age, and any co-occurring medical conditions. Older adults and those with long-term addiction may face more severe withdrawal symptoms and require extended treatment.
Many individuals with alcohol addiction also suffer from co-occurring conditions such as depression or anxiety. Treating these conditions alongside addiction is essential for a successful recovery.
Detox is just the beginning. Lasting sobriety requires ongoing support to develop new habits and coping mechanisms. Establishing healthy relationships and routines is crucial for maintaining sobriety.
If you or a loved one is ready to start the journey to recovery, professional help is available. Contact us at (951) 643-0573 to speak with an addiction specialist who can guide you through the process and help you understand your treatment options.
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