The first step to breaking with alcoholism is for the alcoholic to admit there is an addiction, and that it has to be stopped. That leads to the long road to recovery. The recovery process usually begins by dealing with the withdrawal effects that include the detoxification of alcohol from the body. Withdrawal can last from 24 hours to weeks, according to Health Services at Columbia University. Alcoholics should go through the withdrawal and recovery process under medical and professional supervision.
Rehab Programs
Alcoholics are sometimes referred to alcohol rehab centers through support groups or from health practitioners or specialists. They are available in inpatient and outpatient programs. A doctor can help determine whether the alcoholic can deal with the problem through outpatient services or needs to be closely observed in a safe facility to avoid outside influences for drinking. Alcoholics are educated about withdrawal symptoms they can expect by professionals. Rehab programs may include individual or group therapy, participation in support groups and involvement with family or friends, the Mayo Clinic explains. Counselors at rehab facilities are provided for treatment during the withdrawal and recovery process.
Psychological Withdrawal
The "shakes" are among the most common experiences for an alcoholic who quits drinking, according to Michael's House, an alcohol rehab center. The hands may go through periods of shaking uncontrollably. Nervousness and anxiety may occur when the alcoholic becomes uneasy about not having another drink. He may hurl irritability and anger at family and friends. Mood swings are common, because the alcoholic may feel good about being off alcohol but then become agitated about not having a drink. Alcoholics may experience depression, fatigue and nightmares during this period.
Physical Symptoms
Sweating, nausea and vomiting may occur, depending on the severity of alcohol dependence. Alcoholics may lose their appetite in the weeks following withdrawal. Insomnia can result. She may have heart palpitations or high heart and blood pressure rates. Delirium tremens, or DTs, may occur, according to the Health Services at Columbia. These are life-threatening developments often seen in later-stage alcoholics and need immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include confusion, hallucinations, memory loss, fever and seizures.
Therapy
Once the person conquers the difficulty of withdrawal, psychological support or counseling is necessary to continue the recovery process, the Mayo Clinic says. This can be done on an outpatient or inpatient basis, depending on the alcoholic's degree of alcoholism. Many treatment programs offer counseling to couples or families to help the alcoholic and understand what is happening during the process. Medication may also be provided. It does not cure alcoholism, but some drugs can reduce the urge to drink or can cause severe reactions, such as nausea, vomiting and headaches, if alcohol is consumed.
Aftercare
Support is very important following a program. Many recovering alcoholics stay in touch with counselors or staff when they are on their own. They are encouraged to continue involvement with support groups. Rehab centers and health professionals involved with the withdrawal and recovery processes are available to manage relapses or help the alcoholic cope with lifestyle changes, the Mayo Clinic notes.
