Alcohol detoxification is a term used when an alcoholic decides to rid his body of the effects of alcoholism. While an alcoholic is generally always labeled as one, he can go into rehabilitation and learn to reprogram his body to survive without craving alcohol. Detoxing from alcohol can range anywhere three days to two weeks. There are certain steps to take and things to keep in mind before getting ready to detox from alcohol.
Step 1
Choose an alcohol detox program locally or through alcoholscreening.org that will meet the needs based on your lifestyle and financial capabilities. Make sure the facility has a medical and mental health staff that will likely meet the expectation of being able to help you recover successfully. Ask the staff questions when setting up the initial consultation. Ask how they will assist with helping you to physically and mentally change your lifestyle habits and if they will supply you the tools needed to give up alcohol long-term. Ask to what extent they will allow family and friends to be involved during detoxing.
Step 2
Prepare for the detox itself by refraining from alcohol prior to the detox. Medical professionals such as physicians and nurses may be involved with your treatment and care. They will be able to monitor you as your body rids itself of alcohol. They will track vital signs and also implement cognitive therapy to help you mentally work through the detox process and the withdrawal symptoms.
Step 3
Accept the physical signs of detoxification. Detoxification can have a physically demanding effect on the entire body. Minor withdrawal symptoms for someone with short-term alcohol abuse may include nausea, vomiting, body aches, anxiety and insomnia. For cases of long-term alcohol abuse and dependency, symptoms can be severe. These include visual hallucinations, seizures, anorexia, tremors, hypertension, heart palpitations, heart attack, fever, delusions and severe agitation. Many physicians use medications to relieve some of the symptoms while the patient is under around-the-clock medical care. These medications may include Klonepin and Bruprenohix---an anti-convulsion medication.
Step 4
Attend classes and sessions in an inpatient or outpatient program. This is an important part of the detox process. Outpatient programs will require more willpower because the patient is able to freely come and go as she pleases. There is less monitoring involved, so the patient will have to rely on support systems both with a sponsor and at home with friends and family. You may be asked to keep a journal on hand to write about alcohol temptations and how they affect you physically with cravings and impulsive behavior.
Step 5
Counteract long-term temptations and withdrawal symptoms with support from the rehab unit or an alcoholics anonymous sponsor. In addition, be sure to remain physically active by getting daily exercise and eating healthy. During and after detox, try to focus on a project or task in order to keep the mind busy and avoid temptation.
Tips and Warnings
- Contact the American Council on alcoholism helpline 24 hours a day at (800) 527-5344 if you need someone to talk to about your alcoholism.
- If detoxing without the assistance of medical help, be sure to watch for problem signs such as high fever, paranoia, increased agitation and detachment from surroundings. If symptoms are unbearable, be sure to seek medical attention or call 911 immediately.
Things You'll Need
- Journal or notebook
- Pen
