Alcohol is part of the fabric of American life. From movies and tv to social gatherings, alcohol consumption is not only expected, but it’s also often glorified to an unhealthy degree. While many people are able to limit their alcohol consumption to social drinking, those who struggle with addiction can find themselves becoming dependent on alcohol to function. If you or someone you care about is battling alcohol use disorder, attending an alcohol addiction treatment program can give you a new lease on life.
Liberty Health Services offers alcohol abuse treatment in New Hampshire, and our luxurious treatment facility feels more like a hotel than an addiction treatment center. We offer private, discreet treatment and a nonjudgmental space where our clients can work to better their lives. Our professional addiction specialists can guide you or a loved one through every step of recovery, from alcohol detox preparation to aftercare. Call us at 855.959.4521 to learn more.
When Should You Enter Alcohol Detox?
Alcohol detox programs are designed to help individuals stop drinking and manage withdrawal symptoms. Attempting to detox without medical supervision can be risky and potentially life-threatening. Individuals with an alcohol use disorder should enter a medically supervised alcohol detoxification program as soon as possible.
Many people enter an alcohol detox program when the consumption of alcohol starts to affect other areas of their life. Some key signs that may indicate that alcohol detox may be necessary can include:
- Drinking more than intended
- Experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit or reduce drinking
- Family or friends have started to voice concerns
- Experiencing memory loss or blackouts after drinking
- Feeling like alcohol is needed to function normally
- Anxiety or depression when not drinking
Experiencing one or more of these signs means it may be time for an alcohol detox program. A detox program in an addiction treatment center will provide comprehensive care and support during the withdrawal process, making it safer and more comfortable for clients going through it. The goal of these types of programs is not only to help clients stop drinking but also set them up for therapy that will help them achieve long-term sobriety.
Alcohol Detox Preparation Steps
Making the decision to enter alcohol detox is the best first step anyone can take toward living a sober life. However, following through is just as important, and the days before entering the detox center are crucial times. Properly preparing for the experience can make detox much easier to get through.
1. Inform Family and Friends
While alcohol detox itself does not take very long, most people benefit significantly from additional treatments and therapies after detox is over, and the client is stable. This may mean that an individual’s stay in a treatment center may last anywhere from a week to almost three months, depending on the program. Even if everything goes perfectly and a client only needs a short amount of time in detox, it’s still a good idea for them to speak with their loved ones about their struggles so that they can receive support after detox.
2. Pack The Necessities
Good alcohol detox centers will have most of what a client will need for their stay during treatment. As a result, there won’t be much to pack, and what will need to be packed will often be on a list given to the client by the admissions team. There will typically also be a list of personal items that are allowed. It’s often best to enter rehab almost completely free from baggage, both literally and figuratively. Packing only the necessary items ensures that distractions are minimized during a client’s stay in detox. Some examples of things that are almost always allowed include:
- A small amount of cash
- A checkbook, credit card, or debit card for any expenses
- A notebook and pen
- Photographs of loved ones
Prescription medications can be brought in the original bottle, and the treatment team should be aware of the client’s medication schedule and dosages.
3. Start Journaling
It can be helpful for a client to reflect before treatment even begins, as many treatments and therapies may call for them to do the same under the direction of a therapist or counselor. This can help the client establish a baseline for their mental and emotional state. Writing in a journal so that they can monitor their own progress can be incredibly useful to monitor their progress throughout recovery.
Learn More About the Alcohol Addiction Treatment Program at Liberty Health Services
Liberty Health Services offers individualized treatment plans that can help you or a loved one detox from alcohol. Our luxurious treatment center provides a calm, relaxing environment where our clients can focus on recovery. Alcohol treatment in New Hampshire does not have to mean being uncomfortable. If you’d like to learn more about what sets Liberty Health Services apart from other detox centers, call us at 855.959.4521. You can also reach us by filling out our online contact form.
