Deciding to stop drinking is a brave but difficult choice. Our society has many customs and activities that include drinking alcohol, so for those who need to avoid alcohol, there can be obstacles and challenges. However, even though the process of giving up drinking can be hard, it can also be very rewarding. Alcohol can be dangerous to suddenly stop, so many people who wish to break their alcohol addiction choose to participate in an alcohol detox program. Such programs can help those who wish to detox from alcohol do so in a safe and recovery-focused environment. Contact DetoxLA at 818.616.7341 to learn more.
What Is Alcohol Use Disorder?
In the past, people often used the term ‘alcoholism’ to refer to situations in which people struggled to manage their drinking. Nowadays, addictions to alcohol and substances are properly understood to be like other illnesses – yes, there are personal choices involved, but there are also many genetic, neurological, and psychological factors that can contribute to someone’s risk of experiencing addiction. The term ‘alcohol use disorder’ is used now to refer to a person’s impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences.
Why Not Detox at Home?
Unfortunately, alcohol is one of only a few substances that can be dangerous or even life-threatening to withdraw from. The symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can vary from person to person. Still, the risk of seizures and death means that those who wish to stop drinking alcohol should always do so under the care of a medical professional. There are many factors that can impact what withdrawal from alcohol will be like for an individual, such as how long and how much they have been drinking, their general state of health, and any underlying mental health conditions.
Some commonly-experienced symptoms of alcohol withdrawal are:
- Tremors
- Sleeping problems
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Fevers
- Heartbeat anomalies
- Anxiety and irritability
- Sweating
- Hallucinations
How Can an Alcohol Detox Program Help?
Addiction is a complex issue, and there is no ‘magic bullet’ to fix it. However, studies have shown that people with substance and alcohol use disorder have the best chances of maintaining their recovery if they participate in a treatment program. Also, people who have participated in a treatment program are more likely to be able to return to work or school, rejoin activities and hobbies previously enjoyed, and avoid negative interactions with law enforcement.
Even though a detox program is meant to deal with the withdrawal process, the early stages of recovery are a critical time for people who are trying to change their relationship with alcohol. In a detox program, you will receive not only medical help but therapeutic help. Often, people who have struggled with alcohol use disorder find that they benefit from counseling that lets them address the issues that may have been feeding their drinking habits. Clients also begin to learn skills that will help them strengthen their support system. Additionally, most detox programs encourage their clients to transition into further recovery care to help them as they move forward into the next phase.
DetoxLA Can Help With Alcohol Detox and Addiction Treatment
At our treatment center in Tarzana, California, our clients participate in a variety of programs designed to help them heal from addiction. Our staff of highly trained clinicians has the knowledge and experience to develop individualized treatment plans that will address each client’s specific needs. Addiction to alcohol or drugs is a battle that you do not have to fight on your own – reach out to our caring and compassionate staff today at 818.616.7341 or by filling out our online form and learn how we can help you take the first step on your path to recovery and wellness.