Alcoholism Treatment

Choosing an Alcoholism Treatment Program

Choosing an alcoholism treatment program can be confusing. There are many different choices available, so it's important to understand your options. Making an informed decision will improve your odds of recovery.

Recovery begins when you don’t take a drink. For some, it is just that simple. For others, especially those in late stage alcoholism, it is dangerous to stop drinking abruptly. In either case, competent medical care is critical.

Detoxification Treatment Centers

Detox treatment centers help you withdraw safely from alcohol. Medical care during this period may include anticonvulsants, anti-anxiety medications, or tranquilizers. Heavy doses of vitamins may be required, since alcoholics can develop huge vitamin deficiencies. Nutrition education is an important component as well. Many alcoholics will have nutritional deficiencies as a result of either not eating or not eating properly.

There are two general types of detox programs in alcoholism treatment.

• In-patient: In this type of program, you will stay at the center. In most cases, you'll stay for a period of three to five days, providing there are no other medical crises. You will be closely monitored by medical professionals who may use medications to help ease the pain and trauma that withdrawal causes.
• Out-patient: In this type of program, you will be required to visit a clinic-type setting or a doctor’s office where you will be monitored as the alcohol leaves your system. Out-patient treatment provides a cheaper alternative to in-patient programs, though it is important that you check with your doctor for a complete physical before making a decision. Your doctor will know which type of alcoholism treatment program is best.

With out-patient treatment, expect to make frequent visits. In fact, you may be required to visit the center on a daily basis. Along with the physical treatment of addiction, expect to receive extensive counseling during this time.

Rehabilitation Treatment Centers

After a safe withdrawal process, rehabilitation (rehab) comes next. After detox is completed, it is important for you to immediately go into rehab to help you deal with the temptation to drink alcohol.

An in-patient rehab program provides a structured environment with a set schedule. Classes in alcohol education, group/individual therapy sessions, and counseling are provided along with meals. Your family can be involved in this later part of the recovery process. Honest communication between family members is essential if you are to recover.

Outpatient rehab programs offer similar services, but without requiring you to live at the center. Which type of program is right for you will depend on many factors, including your mental health, your outside responsibilities, and your insurance or financial status.

Two well-known treatment centers are the Hazelden Foundation and the Betty Ford Center. Rehab may last from two to four weeks, or longer if needed.

Withdrawal Reactions

Withdrawal reactions will vary between individuals, along with their severity, but symptoms may include:

• anxiety or irritability
• nausea or vomiting
• shakiness
• high blood pressure
• inability to concentrate
• hallucinations
• convulsions

Again, because of the potential seriousness of the reactions, see your doctor before making any treatment plans. A doctor’s assessment should be the first step in any treatment program.

Aftercare

The aftercare part of the treatment program may involve continuing counseling sessions, along with AA meetings. You may have to return to your rehab facility for a few more times. It could include living at a halfway house, which is a group residence facility with a case manager in charge. The halfway house is to help discourage you going back to an unhealthy environment. It helps you get used to living clean and sober.

Knowing what to expect from alcoholism treatment and the different options may help to take some of the fear away. The important thing to remember is that there is help out there.

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