Alcohol is a drug that produces an intoxicating effect. If you are addicted to alcohol, then it can be tricky to detox from the substance. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms may include anxiety, insomnia, tremors, and seizures, but with professional help, these symptoms will eventually subside. How long does it take for your body to process all of the alcohol? Read on to find out!
What is alcohol detoxification?
Many people struggle with alcohol addiction and would like to quit drinking. There are many ways of dealing with this problem, from going through an outpatient treatment program to signing up for a month-long stint at a rehab center. Some people choose to detoxify on their own, removing the temptation of alcohol by avoiding locations where they will be tempted to drink. If you are thinking about detoxifying on your own, it is helpful to know how long you can expect this process to take and what withdrawal symptoms might arise.
When should I consider detoxing from alcohol?
If you repeatedly find yourself unable to stop drinking, or if others around you complain that your drinking is affecting the quality of your life, you should consider detoxification. You may be in denial that alcohol is causing problems for you, but this method of treatment allows you to become aware of just how much your drinking is impacting your life in a negative way. If you are experiencing physical symptoms when you try to quit drinking, such as nausea or headaches, it is best to detoxify while a professional medical monitor you.
How does the process work?
Detoxification from alcohol is usually done under medical supervision, either in a controlled environment such as a treatment facility or at home with the aid of private alcohol detox. These medications are usually prescribed by your doctor and administered by nurses who are on staff at the treatment facility. It could take weeks to months, depending on your severity.
Signs that you need to detox
There are some signs that indicate you should consider undergoing alcohol withdrawal so that your body can return to normal function without relying on alcohol as a crutch for everyday life. If you feel like your drinking is negatively impacting your personal relationships, chances are good it is time to detoxify. The same goes for when you find yourself drinking in the morning or throughout the day to rid yourself of withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety and depression.
This may also interest you: Five Ways To Naturally Detox The Body From Drugs and Alcohol
Detox methods and how they work
While there are many ways to detoxify from alcohol, some are more effective than others. For example, abstinence is always an option, but many people find it difficult to quit without professional supervision. Some choose to detoxify at home under the guidance of a doctor; this is usually done with medications along with psychological support during the process. Detoxification in an inpatient facility may be beneficial in certain cases, particularly when someone struggles with withdrawal symptoms like DTs (delirium tremens) or seizures.
How long does it take to get better after a successful detoxification process?
This varies from person to person, as individual bodies react differently to withdrawals. It can take anywhere from days or weeks before you notice a difference in your mood and overall well-being. You may also feel the urge to drink again, but this is a sign that your brain chemistry has begun to change for the better.
Signs of relapse:
Some people cannot be cured with one single detox process due to certain physical dependencies on alcohol. However, if you are still struggling after completing an initial detoxification process, consider returning for a second round. The detoxification process also may take longer if too much time has passed between your initial and second attempt at treatment; you should not wait more than four to six months between sessions.
In conclusion: Alcohol is a drug that can be difficult to detox from. The time it takes for the body to fully recover varies depending on factors such as weight, age, number of drinks consumed per day, and other health conditions. Therefore, it could vary from weeks to months.
Helpful Resources
Northern Illinois Recovery
Harmony Place Resources
Kingsway Recovery Resources
New Directions for Women
Casco Bay Recovery
North Jersey Recovery Center Resources
Owls Nest Recovery
Chapters Recovery Center
