The decision to stop drinking daily and excessively can be a difficult one, but it is an important step in the journey to recovery. How long it takes to detox from alcohol depends on a few factors, including how much you drink, how long you've been drinking, and whether you've had a detox before. In addition, the symptoms of alcohol detoxification can range from uncomfortable to dangerous. It is important to understand the signs of addiction, the withdrawal symptoms that may occur during detoxification, and how to treat these symptoms.
The amount of time it takes to go through alcohol abstinence varies from person to person. Generally, alcohol withdrawal symptoms can begin two to six hours after your last drink and peak one to three days later. For most people, detox will begin approximately seven hours after the last drink and will persist for a few days. Severe alcohol abstinence can last for weeks or even months in some cases.
It is important to note that alcohol withdrawal can be very dangerous and should never be attempted unsupervised. The safest way to address alcohol abuse and begin detoxification is to consult with a medical professional or seek professional treatment. In Vertava Health rehabilitation programs, compassionate staff assist patients during detoxification and early stages of alcohol recovery treatment. Different medications may be used to help reduce uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Treatment for alcohol withdrawal symptoms is best handled by medical professionals in a detox program, rehabilitation center, or similar inpatient setting.
While there is no right way to treat alcohol addiction, it can be difficult to endure the withdrawal and detoxification process alone. Detoxification has uncomfortable physical and psychological symptoms, and people often benefit from the additional supportive therapies offered in detoxification programs. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to alcohol, there are resources available to help. The SAMHSA National Helpline provides free referrals for treatment programs in your area. Additionally, Alcohol and Drug Addiction Happens in Best Families provides information on how substance abuse treatment works, how family interventions can be a first step to recovery, and how to help children from families affected by alcohol and drug abuse.
