Alcoholism isn’t easy to identify, but the best way to get over alcohol addiction is by going through recovery. Here’s the alcohol recovery process.
The first step is admitting that you have a problem. It isn’t easy. And, to be honest, the rest of the steps to alcohol recovery are just as difficult if not more.
But don’t despair! Thousands of people successfully break free from alcoholism every day.
We’re not being discouraging, only realistic. The truth is, to face something this challenging, you need to go into it with realistic expectations. That’s why we’ve written you this guide.
This quick read overviews the entire alcohol recovery process. After only 5 minutes of reading, you’ll learn what recovering alcoholics must go through, and how you can get through it, too.
You’ve taken the first step. Now, read on to see what the rest look like.
The First Step: Who Needs Help?
Then again, maybe you haven’t taken the first step because you’re not sure you have a problem. So, here’s a summary of warning signs to help you out.
Those who need help recovering from alcoholism:
- are dependant on alcohol to get them through the day
- keep increasing how much they drink
- have trouble performing their job or showing up at all because of their drinking habits
- alienate/isolate themselves from others so they can drink more
- have headaches, nausea, or other physical symptoms when they stop drinking
- cannot stop even if they try
Here’s some more information about what is alcoholism.
Alcohol Detox
Detox is the process of making your body not dependant on alcohol anymore. This starts with checking into your local rehab center.
An initial assessment is taken that includes a series of questions and, possibly, physical tests. From this assessment, rehab professionals determine if you need inpatient care or outpatient care.
Most recovering alcoholics are enrolled in an outpatient program. This means their recovery takes place offsite.
The patient is given the plan and resources they need to detox. And, usually, a friend or family member is recruited to assist the patient through their detox period. Professional counseling sessions will be given throughout and/or after detox.
Only extreme cases of alcoholism require inpatient care to safely detox.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Detoxing from alcohol results in withdrawal symptoms, including:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Sleep problems
- Shakiness
- Sweating
- Changes in heart-rate/blood pressure
- Headaches
- Nausea/vomiting
In extreme cases, patients may have hallucinations during withdrawal.
Detox Timeline
The timeline of alcohol detox depends on the severity of the addiction. It may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for the body to completely shed its dependency on alcohol. Usually, detox is over and done within two weeks.
Additional Help
As mentioned, counseling is part of the recovery process. This usually involves cognitive behavioral therapy and other training.
This training teaches patients how to change their behavior and what to do when tempted internally or externally. All-in-all, patients learn how to avoid tempting situations and what to do when they arise.
Additionally, most patients benefit from ongoing group therapy with other recovering alcoholics. Struggling together lets patients draw strength from each other that they won’t have on their own. There is an AA based program which can help people recover from their struggles with addiction.
Remember This Alcohol Recovery Guide
Now that you know the happy ending, the journey doesn’t have to be so scary! Keep this guide in mind as you start down your own road to alcohol recovery.
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