Alcohol Detox
Alcohol Detox in Asbury Park, NJ
Drug and alcohol addiction affect over 20 million Americans each year. It is a seductive disease that develops over time, influenced by a combination of lifestyle factors, genetic predisposition, and physical and psychological dependence. Many find themselves entrenched in addictive cycles that seem insurmountable alone. Given the severe consequences of addiction, seeking support and structure is crucial as one embarks on the journey of recovery. Recognizing the problem is the first step, and committing to enter rehab is a courageous stride towards reclaiming one's life and restoring mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
Alcohol Addiction
Among all substances involved in addictive cycles, alcohol stands out as the most prevalent. Its accessibility and social acceptance make it highly susceptible to abuse, with individuals falling into addictive patterns sometimes unnoticed for years. Despite functioning seemingly well in work and home environments, the roots of chemical and physical dependency embed themselves deeply, making breaking free progressively challenging.
Alcohol Detox
As individuals commence rehabilitation, they undergo several stages to complete treatment successfully. The initial phase, detox, is critical. During alcohol detox, the body withdraws from dependency, often resulting in unpleasant and potentially life-threatening symptoms. Relapse during detox is common, as the body’s discomfort drives individuals to seek relief through alcohol consumption. It’s crucial to recognize detox as a stage of managing chemical dependency—a brain disease that can be managed but not cured.
Managing Symptoms
In an inpatient treatment program, individuals receive tools and support to manage symptoms. Medical teams offer strategies, medications, and other forms of care to minimize discomfort and enhance success. While there’s no shortcut through detox and symptoms are inevitable, maintaining open communication with caregivers enables individuals to co-create healing conditions tailored to their needs.
Why Is the Detox Process Difficult?
Prolonged alcohol abuse profoundly affects the brain, triggering the release of dopamine and fostering addiction. As alcohol intake decreases or stops, the brain struggles to rebalance neurotransmitters, leading to heightened anxiety, stress, and discomfort. Successfully navigating detox hinges on effectively managing symptoms while the body sheds its dependence on alcohol.
Duration of Detox
Detox duration varies depending on addiction severity and duration of drinking habits. Typically, it may take several weeks to fully eliminate withdrawal symptoms. The detox timeline unfolds in stages:
Stage One: Occurring within 8 to 24 hours after the last drink, symptoms include headaches, nausea, sweating, insomnia, and irritability.
Stage Two: As the body adjusts to life without alcohol, symptoms may intensify, including hallucinations, confusion, anxiety, increased blood pressure, and seizures.
Stage Three: In this stage, symptoms may begin to subside, but the body still experiences the effects of alcohol abuse, such as trembling, sweating, shortness of breath, agitation, confusion, and rapid heart rate.
Completing detox marks only the initial step in a comprehensive rehabilitation program. Counseling, therapy, group sessions, nutritional guidance, and other services are vital for optimal health and healing. Embrace these opportunities and envision the brighter future you deserve. Contact us today to commence your healing journey!