Addiction of any kind is incredibly damaging to the body, mind, and relationships. Overcoming an addiction to alcohol is a trying journey, and the first major hurdle many face are withdrawal symptoms. Alcohol withdrawal presents many difficulties early in recovery, so preparing to navigate this difficult time is essential for processing the difficult emotional and physical symptoms of alcohol withdrawal safely and comfortably.
The Many Forms of Addiction
There may be a number of images that come to mind when words like “addiction” and “recovery” are mentioned. However, there is no single demographic or image of someone that addiction affects.
Those who struggle with alcohol abuse and addiction all struggle in unique ways. Addiction encompasses many different forms of alcohol use, some of which can be more apparent than others, but all can be equally destructive.
Excessive binge drinking and daily trips to the bar can indicate an unhealthy relationship with alcohol. Constant use may become normalized, especially if an individual is operating within a drinking-heavy work or social culture, and they may not realize the extent of their drinking problem.
For some, this means they may not realize how frequently they are over-indulging in alcoholic substances, while others may lose track of the number of drinks had in a given sitting. However, an individual doesn’t have to be wholly intoxicated to develop an addiction, and it is possible to do just as much damage to the body and mind when one doesn't get blackout drunk.
Some may engage with alcohol regularly throughout the day, mixing a drink with their morning coffee, with lunch, and taking sips throughout the day. Hiding alcohol in common spots or drinking while on the job are all common among those struggling with an addiction, even if they don't get outright drunk. However, this frequency of use is just as detrimental, and ending alcohol abuse is essential for physical and mental health.
Regardless of the form of one’s alcohol abuse, the sudden cessation of alcohol can create withdrawal symptoms. While these symptoms may be uncomfortable and difficult, navigating them is a necessary step in pursuing a sober future and indicates the body’s shift back to normal functioning.
Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal
Each individual will experience unique symptoms or combinations of symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, depending on several factors. Frequency and intensity of use, the use of other drugs, underlying mental health disorders, and more all impact the detox journey. Some of the more common alcohol withdrawal symptoms include:
Anxiety
Panic
Vomiting
Nightmares
Tremors
Elevated heart rate
Depression
Nausea
Insomnia
Shaking
Sweating
Fever
For some, these symptoms can set in very quickly after last use, presenting as soon as a few hours after the last drink. More severe cases of alcohol withdrawal can even include hallucinations and seizures. These withdrawal symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Further extreme cases may result in delirium tremens (DT), an incredibly dangerous symptom of alcohol withdrawal. DT can result in further danger to physical and mental health, with potentially life-threatening consequences. Medical attention is paramount for treating DT, and dedicated professionals can recognize the symptoms of DT and provide the necessary care to navigate this dangerous result of withdrawal.
Timeline of Alcohol Withdrawal
The most intense symptoms of alcohol withdrawal usually manifest within the first few days and end after about two weeks. However, this does not eliminate the possibility of cravings, lingering symptoms, mental health issues, or relapse. Navigating withdrawal does not mark the end of the recovery journey or treatment; it is only the first step.
After a week or two in a dedicated alcohol withdrawal and detox facility, symptoms should begin to subside, and one can take the next steps at a dedicated residential or outpatient program, depending on one’s needs. However, the first step to sobriety is always managing this initial phase where withdrawal symptoms are present, and working to maintain recovery at this stage is essential.
Urges and cravings to reengage with alcohol can be prevalent at any stage in recovery, lasting for months or years after one discontinues the use of alcohol. These cravings may even be present throughout the rest of one’s life but processing them and emerging with sobriety still in focus is a testament to continued success in their sober efforts.
The Need for Dedicated Treatment
There is no way to predict exactly how one will present withdrawal symptoms or how severe they may be. Having dedicated recovery professionals educating an individual about their symptoms, providing necessary medication or other medical care, providing therapy and emotional processing, and maintaining a safe and supportive sober environment is necessary for success in their recovery efforts.
Because withdrawal from alcohol comes with so many unknowns and poses a risk to physical and mental health, even the most supportive of loved ones can't replace the knowledge and care a professional detox team can provide. Detoxing and managing withdrawal in a facility with professionals who know how to care for someone in that position is essential for the best chance at long-term recovery.
The Edge Treatment Center Helps Treat Alcohol Addiction
If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to alcohol, The Edge Treatment Center will help you take back control of your life today. We offer an array of proven therapeutic programs to help you understand and overcome addiction, starting with navigating detox and withdrawal.
Our trained and caring staff can help you begin your journey with the right support and educate you each step of the way. We'll personalize your treatment plan to help you learn how to cope with triggers and cravings for a lifetime of recovery. For more information, contact The Edge Treatment Center today.
