The first step toward beating an alcohol addiction is admitting that you have a problem. This is the hardest part of getting treatment because you are probably feeling ashamed and embarrassed. After all, it’s not easy to come to terms with the fact that you have a problem that can control your life.
But if you want to get better, then you have to take that step first and check yourself into an alcohol addiction treatment center.
To deal with your drinking habit, an in-patient alcohol rehab program will help guide you through the process of recovery. In these programs, counselors will work with you one-on-one every day for as long as it takes for you to overcome your substance abuse issues and stay sober for good.
So, if you’re ready to take action and get help, keep reading to learn more about what happens during treatment, how long it takes to recover from addiction, and the potential risks or benefits of participating in rehabilitation therapy.
Alcohol Rehabilitation Centers; An Overview
The majority of people who go through treatment for their alcohol addiction do so in a rehab facility. These facilities are either private or public and are sometimes referred to as alcohol treatment centers, alcohol rehabilitation, or inpatient alcohol addiction treatment programs.
These centers are often abstinence-only programs. This means they don’t allow participants to taste, smell, or even touch alcohol. Instead, they’re encouraged to focus on their cravings, thoughts, and behaviors around alcohol.
The Steps of Alcohol Addiction Recovery
Diagnosis
Many rehab centers require a medical exam and a physical and mental assessment to determine if you have a drinking problem. Furthermore, a psychologist or psychiatrist may also conduct an assessment to help you determine the best course of treatment.
Assessment and Setting Goals
You’ll also be asked to complete short surveys and questionnaires during intake. These assessments help the staff determine your level of alcohol dependence and help them set goals for your treatment.
Detoxification
Some people undergo detox so that their bodies can go through withdrawal safely. In these cases, individuals will usually drink a small amount of alcohol in order to lessen the harsh effects of this phase.
Education and Counseling
Treatment may include one or more sessions of counseling and/or group counseling. In these sessions, therapists will discuss topics like the physical and psychological effects of alcohol, the medical risks associated with consuming alcohol, and your family relationships.
This stage of treatment may also focus on changing your behavior and modifying your thought patterns in order to reduce or eliminate your cravings for alcohol.
How Long Does It Take to Recover From Alcohol Dependence?
The length of time it takes to recover from an alcohol addiction depends on several factors. These include your overall health, the severity of your dependency, and the program you choose to complete treatment.
For example, inpatient alcohol treatment programs usually require a full week or more of complete abstinence from alcohol.
With outpatient programs, there are no specific lengths of time that are required. But you must attend or participate in therapy sessions and/or behavioral modification activities on a consistent basis so that you can get better. If you don’t, you could end up relapsing or return to old habits.
In Conclusion
Whether you choose an inpatient or an outpatient alcohol addiction treatment center, you need to remember that it’s important to maintain abstinence. This means staying away from alcohol for the rest of your life. If you do choose to participate in treatment, keep in mind that you have a good chance of succeeding. You just need to have an open mind and a strong will to get better, and you’ll be well on your way to recovery.
