Addiction to alcohol can have long-term consequences on physical and mental health. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, it is important to understand the potential risks associated with addiction, as well as the steps that can be taken for successful recovery. Learning how to get through alcohol withdrawal symptoms can help you lay a strong foundation for sobriety.
At The Right Step Hill Country, our team of professionals is dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support to those struggling with alcohol dependence. Our holistic treatment approach offers a variety of evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and 12-step programming, designed to help individuals break the cycle of addiction and develop healthy coping skills. Get started in our San Antonio, TX detox center today by calling 1.844.675.1628.
The Long-Term Effects of Alcohol Addiction
Long-term addiction to alcohol can lead to serious physical and mental health issues such as:
- Liver damage
- Heart disease
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Death
It’s important to recognize the signs early and understand how to get through alcohol withdrawal symptoms in order to seek help before it’s too late.
Short-Term Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
If you are trying to quit drinking or have recently stopped drinking after a period of excessive usage, you may experience some short-term withdrawal symptoms. These include:
- Tremors and shakes
- Headaches
- Sweating and nausea
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Confusion
- Cravings for alcohol
- Intense anxiety
Long-Term Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
Alcohol withdrawal can also lead to more serious long-term side effects. These include:
- Memory problems
- Difficulty concentrating
- Insomnia or other sleep disorders
- Reduced appetite or weight loss
- Depression and anxiety
In addition, if left untreated, these conditions may lead to more serious medical conditions such as seizures or delirium tremens (DTs). DTs is a severe condition that can be life-threatening and is characterized by agitation, confusion, intense fear, hallucinations, and seizures.
What Helps with Alcohol Withdrawal?
Fortunately, there are many strategies for how to get through alcohol withdrawal symptoms by providing your body with the nutrients it needs during this delicate time. Some things that may help include:
- Getting plenty of restful sleep each night
- Eating healthy meals throughout the day
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Avoiding caffeine
- Exercising regularly
- Using relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation
- Taking vitamins supplements
- Talking to a therapist about your feelings related to addiction
- Joining a support group for people in recovery
- Attending AA meetings regularly
- Seeking professional medical treatment if needed
The Benefits of Alcohol Detox Programs
Detox programs offer an effective way for individuals who struggle with alcoholism to safely manage their withdrawals while under close supervision by medical professionals. Such programs provide access to medications that reduce cravings while helping patients cope with their physical discomfort during withdrawals from alcohol use disorder (AUD).
Detox programs also provide counseling sessions designed specifically for AUD patients, which assist in addressing underlying mental health issues that contribute heavily towards relapse prevention strategies. Finally, most detox programs provide ongoing aftercare plans which enable patients to remain abstinent from alcohol and achieve lasting sobriety over time.
Alcohol Detox at The Right Step Hill Country
At The Right Step Hill Country, our team understands how difficult it can be when struggling with alcoholism, so we provide our clients with comprehensive treatment options tailored specifically to their individual needs. We also offer family therapy where families are able to join their loved ones every step along the way towards recovery. Our expertly trained staff understand how difficult it can be when attempting abstinence from drugs & alcohol, so they work hard around the clock to provide our clients with all the necessary resources needed for success. Furthermore, we believe in creating an environment conducive to healing and growth by providing specialized programs focused on developing essential skills necessary for lasting sobriety.
Get started today by calling 1.844.675.1628 or contacting us online.