Alcohol addiction can break up families, cause job losses and break up close relationships. Once alcohol takes over, it can be even more difficult for the alcoholic to reach out for help. Sometimes interventions need to be staged in order to get alcoholics the treatment and rehabilitation they need.
Detoxification
Serious alcoholics who are at a life threatening level with their alcoholism may have to face detoxification as their form of rehab. This is a closely guarded procedure that is only conducted at a medical clinic or hospital that is equipped with the proper medical gear. The patient will be closely watched around the clock as the body withdrawals from the alcohol. They will be given an IV with constant fluids and often mild pain killers to help combat the withdrawal symptoms. The patient will also have his vital signs continuously monitored. Symptoms in severe cases may include hallucinations, fever, convulsions, seizures and black outs. The person may also become very irritable and unreasonable with until the detox is over.
Inpatient Treatment
An inpatient facility is where the alcoholic stays there for it least three weeks to 30 days. This can also be a part of intense detoxification that has medical supervision or it can also be used for cases that don't require medical observation. It transpires in a clinic-like setting with a comfortable area for patients to communicate with others and also retreat to their own rooms. Medical assistance is available around the clock with the aid of a registered nurse and behavioral therapist or medical doctor.
Therapeutic Community Treatment
Therapeutic community treatment is also a form of rehabilitation for alcoholics. This is generally sought after by those who believe they can still function in society but just need support integrated into their normal lives. These include Alcoholic's Anonymous meetings or Al-Anon meeting places. They generally involve weekly (or more frequent) meetings and a sponsor or mentor that is available around the clock to provide emotional support to the alcoholic as she is faced with cravings, problems and challenges.
Outpatient Treatment
An outpatient facility is similar to an inpatient facility in that it has the medical resources to support the alcoholic through their rehabilitation. The only difference is this patient is free to leave and go back into society after daily treatment. He may spend the entire day in the facility with group therapy, drug assistance for side effects and behavioral therapy sessions but return to home or work as recommended by a therapist or doctor.
Sober House
A sober house is often times considered a bridge after inpatient therapy. It is set up as a house or apartment unit that is minimally supervised by a director or medical professional. It is set up much like a regular home and other people live there as support. A nurse may be on staff as well as orderlies, but the patient is free to come and go as she wishes. This type of rehab acts as a crossroads to see how the patient can function in the real world but still have a somewhat supportive and controlled environment to come home to.
