Heavy drinking can lead to a variety of health problems, including alcohol dependence, also known as alcoholism or alcohol addiction. When a person with an alcohol use disorder decides to quit drinking, they may experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can last for several weeks. It is important to understand how alcohol affects the brain and body in order to understand what happens when the usual consumption of alcohol is abruptly stopped.
It is also important to seek medical attention before starting the detoxification process, as the side effects of alcohol detoxification can affect the body and mind, causing mild to extreme discomfort throughout the process. Alcohol rehabilitation or treatment programs are designed to take care of the mind and body during detoxification. These programs provide pharmaceutical tools and medications to help eliminate or reduce the specific symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. Doctors can also provide the right vitamins and nutrients to compensate for any deficiencies caused by alcohol.
For those interested in quitting drinking, it is important to seek medical attention (even if it's just a checkup), especially for people who drink a lot, when there has been long-term alcohol abuse, and for those who have previously experienced delirium tremens (DT) or seizures caused by alcohol abuse. It is also important to understand how alcohol and drug addiction affects the whole family. Substance abuse treatment works by helping family members intervene in order to start the recovery process. It is also important to help children from families affected by alcohol and drug abuse.
For additional resources, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) store. SAMHSA's mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on communities across the United States. The SAMHSA National Helpline is available for those seeking help with substance abuse issues. English and Spanish are available if you select the option to speak with a national representative.
Text messaging service 435748 (HELP4U) is currently only available in English. The referral service is free, even if you are uninsured or underinsured. We may request your postal code or other relevant geographic information to track calls sent to other offices or to accurately identify local resources appropriate to your needs. No, we don't offer advice. Trained information specialists answer calls, transfer callers to state services or other appropriate intake centers in their states, and connect them to local assistance and support.
