Guide to Alcohol Withdrawal

While the severity depends on how much and how long you’ve been drinking, withdrawal from alcohol can be fatal in the worst-case circumstances. In this guide, we take a look at how to safely withdrawal from alcohol and what to expect. 

At the end of the day, getting professional help to do so, such as with Freedom Recovery Centers (FRC), is one of the best choices you can make. Together, we can help you achieve lasting recovery and better health.

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What is Alcohol Withdrawal?

Alcohol withdrawal¹ happens after drinking excessively and frequently for weeks, months, or even years. When you try to stop drinking, you may experience various symptoms—ultimately, making it difficult to quit for good. 

But what does heavy or excessive drinking mean? For men, this refers to 15 or more drinks each week. For women, this is eight or more drinks per week.

Alcohol acts as a depressant on the body and mind². This means it slows everything down, including thought processes and nervous system functions. And this means that your body and systems must work that much harder to keep everything functioning. When this goes on for a prolonged time, the sudden drop causes your nervous system and brain to remain in an overactive state (it had adapted to this due to prolonged or chronic drinking). This is where withdrawal symptoms arise.

‍Symptoms of withdrawal³ may include:‍

• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Headaches
• Increased heart rate
• Increased sweating
• Shaking
• Insomnia
• Upset stomach
• Confusion

Another symptom and risk of withdrawal is Delirium Tremens (DTs)⁴. This causes difficulty thinking, severe confusion and disorientation, quick anger, slow movement, apathy, and seizures. It can also lead to hallucinations. These symptoms arise due to overexcited brain activity. It can progress rapidly, leading to a coma. DTs often happen within 24 to 72 hours after your last drink. 

If you experience these, get immediate medical health. DTs are serious and can have life-threatening consequences without the right treatment.

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How To Manage Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms depend on how frequent and excessive your drinking has become. For some, withdrawal symptoms arise within as little as six hours after their last drink⁵. This often includes anxiety, vomiting, insomnia, sweating, and shaky hands. More serious symptoms tend to arise within 12-24 hours after your last drink, with DTs potentially happening within 24-72 hours. 

For mild cases of alcohol withdrawal, consider⁶:

• Resting
• Staying hydrated
• Eating healthy and whole foods
• Checking in with your doctor
• Visiting a counselor after you’ve passed the initial withdrawal stages
• Joining a support group to help quit your alcohol addiction

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For more severe cases, options include:

In-Patient Alcohol Rehab

For severe alcohol addictions, in-patient programs offer an intensive and structured program, offering round-the-clock support. This type of rehab requires you to stay in a center or facility where you can focus solely on your recovery. It involves:

• Medical Detox: At FRC, our staff provides medical and emotional support 24/7 as your body withdraws and detoxes from alcohol. Professional monitoring is particularly important for those with severe addictions, since certain medical interventions may be necessary to guarantee your safety.
• Therapy: From group and family therapy to individual therapy, such as CBT and more, you’ll work toward lasting recovery by untangling the root causes of your addiction.
• Holistic Approaches: Quitting alcohol isn’t just about giving up the substance itself. It’s also about finding joy and purpose in other parts of your life. You’ll learn healthy coping mechanisms, stress relief techniques, and have the opportunity to participate in nutrition and fitness education and other activities while you rediscover your spark.
• Aftercare: Before leaving your rehab center, you’ll be equipped with the tools and resources you need to continue down the path of sobriety. At FRC, we refer you to support groups, counselors, and more to further support your journey.

Out-Patient Programs

Out-patient programs are very similar to in-patient programs. Initially, a brief stay may be necessary for detoxification. However, the key difference is that out-patient programs allow you to stay within the comfort of your own home as you undergo rehab. This may mean attending sessions during the day or evenings, while having time to also address your committments or responsibilities (such as work or family).

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Getting Help for Alcohol Withdrawal

Leading a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life after alcohol abuse is entirely possible. Recovery is within reach. At FRC, we are here to support you every step of the way. You don’t have to do this alone, and, for your own safety, nor should you. Alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening. It’s important to have the right support by your side when you make the courageous decision to quit.

When you’re ready, call us at 804-635-3746 or fill out our online form. We’re here for you 24/7.

FAQs

How long is alcohol withdrawal?

Typically, alcohol withdrawal lasts seven to 10 days. However, in severe cases, it can last up to two weeks.

How do you detox your body from alcohol?

Drinking plenty of fluids and whole foods can help support your body during this time. For moderate to severe alcohol addiction, it’s important to have professional medical support by your side to help monitor and address life-threatening complications that could arise.

Is a hot shower good for alcohol withdrawal?

Contrary to popular belief, this may not help and may make things worse. However, in mild cases, it may help reduce stress and tension. In moderate to severe cases, there is a risk of fainting in the shower or becoming disoriented.