The decision to give up alcohol and start a new life of sobriety is one you should be immensely proud of. Alcohol is a hard substance to give up completely. We’re all surrounded by the chance to imbibe almost every day of our lives. It’s socially acceptable to have a drink or two in social situations, such as parties, barbeques, dinners, and so much more. We see commercials for the newest wine flavor and the best whiskey on the television, on social media, and on billboards. Drinking alcohol at a bar is basically expected of a person, even if they are only there for a meal. When it comes to quitting, you’re going to need all the help you can get.
If you are an alcoholic and are ready to get sober, you likely have many questions you would like answered first. Can alcoholics recover without rehab? Do you really need a rehab facility or can you do it all on your own? How hard will it be? For the answer to these questions and more, read on.
Alcohol Withdrawals
If you are a social drinker and only imbibe every once in a while, then you do not have to worry about going through physical withdrawals if you decide to stop completely. However, serious alcoholism will cause serious withdrawal symptoms. After your last drink, you may feel milder symptoms as early as six hours later. These symptoms may include:
• Anxiety
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Shaking
• Sweating
• Vomiting
The symptoms become worse as time goes on. From 12 to 14 hours after your last drink, you may have seizures and hallucinations due to alcohol withdrawal. Some people see, hear, or feel things that are not there.
The worst alcohol withdrawal symptoms are known as delirium tremens, or DTs. These can begin anywhere from 48 to 72 hours after your last drink and can become very severe. Vivid hallucinations and delusions can occur if you experience DTs. Many patients who experience DTs also have the following symptoms:
• Confusion
• Fever
• High blood pressure
• Heavy sweating
• Racing heart
If left untreated, DTs can cause seizures and even death. It’s very crucial to be in a safe setting during this time. A rehab facility will have doctors and nurses on hand to take care of your withdrawal symptoms safely. This may include medication to ease the symptoms. This medication will make you feel much more comfortable and can also take away your cravings. Inpatient or outpatient rehab will give you what you need to get through the worst of your withdrawal symptoms. It’s not a good idea to go at it alone.
Why Rehab Can Help
One of the most important ways rehab can help you get sober is by giving you the support you need during withdrawals. However, rehab can offer much more after you have rid your body of the harmful toxins of alcohol. You’ll have the chance to participate in some or all of the following activities:
One-on-one therapy- You’ll have the opportunity to talk to a counselor in private most days you are in the facility.
Group therapy- Talking with others who are in a similar situation as yourself can be very beneficial to your progress.
Family time- You’ll have the opportunity to talk with your family over the phone and computer during special times.
Family therapy-Family therapy gives you a chance to talk with family members about your addiction and how it has affected everyone as an individual.
Volunteer opportunities- Many rehab facilities offer volunteer opportunities for patients while they are learning to get clean.
Exercise and healthy eating habits- You’ll be encouraged to begin or continue an exercise program as part of your lifestyle change. You’ll also be encouraged to learn how to eat healthy as you learn how to deal with being sober in the future.
Holistic activities- Some rehab facilities offer holistic activities as part of their program. This could include meditation, acupuncture, yoga, and more.
Journaling- You will be encouraged to keep a journal of your thoughts and emotions when you are a rehab patient. This can help you recognize the bad habits and patterns that could be part of your addiction.
We Can Help
We know that rehab seems like a scary thing to face. But we can assure you that we are here to help you through this difficult time with compassion and empathy. Let us guide you from start to finish in our facility today! Call 954-523-1167 to learn what we can do for you.