Alcohol addiction is a serious condition that impacts every aspect of a person’s life. People who struggle with substance use disorder (SUD) or alcohol use disorder (AUD) require comprehensive treatment to address the underlying roots of these complex conditions.
Most drug and alcohol rehab programs start with a medically assisted detox program. Some treatment facilities offer detox alone, and some rehab facilities provide several levels of care. This article will explore how to choose the best alcohol detox center to meet your needs. You will learn:
- What happens to the body during drug and alcohol addiction
- What to expect during a medically supervised detox and addiction treatment program
- How to choose the best alcohol detox center
- Where to find comprehensive detox, treatment, and dual diagnosis treatment programs
If you or someone you love struggles with addiction, you are not alone. Find comprehensive, compassionate detox and treatment programs at First Step Behavioral Health. Learn about our programs or schedule an intake appointment by contacting our intake team today.
Alcohol Withdrawal and Detox: Understanding the Basics
Alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances in the United States. It is legal to buy and use alcohol throughout most of the US, making it widely available. Alcohol has the potential for abuse and addiction because of how it affects the brain and body.
Alcohol works in the body by slowing activity in the central nervous system (CNS), leading to a range of side effects, including:
- Poor balance and coordination
- Drowsiness
- Euphoria and well-being
- Relaxation
- Slurred words
- Impaired judgment
- Changes in mood
When someone drinks alcohol heavily or for an extended period, their body may remain in a constant state of elevated CNS activity. When they stop drinking, they may experience alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Some symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can be uncomfortable or even life-threatening.
Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline and Symptoms
The symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can begin within just hours after their last drink. Early withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Excessive sweating
- Tremors
- Anxiety
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Insomnia
People often experience strong cravings for alcohol and are at increased risk of relapse (drinking again).
Over the next two or three days, the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can intensify. People experience new or worsening symptoms, including:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dehydration
- Excessive sweating
Some people may experience life-threatening complications during this period, including seizures, hallucinations, and intense confusion. People may become dangerously dehydrated or have low blood sugar.
Around three days, people’s symptoms may reach their peak. Common symptoms at this stage include:
- Tremors
- Intense anxiety
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweating
A small percentage of people may develop a dangerous condition called delirium tremens (DTs) during the alcohol withdrawal process. Symptoms of delirium tremens include:
- Dangerously high body temperature
- Hallucinations
- Extreme confusion
- Seizures
Delirium tremens can be life-threatening without immediate medical intervention. The risk of severe complications and dangerous withdrawal symptoms decreases over time, but round-the-clock remains critical during the first several days of the detox process.
The uncomfortable and dangerous withdrawal symptoms increase the risk of relapse. People require intensive treatment and support to manage withdrawal safely and avoid relapse.
What to Expect During Alcohol Detox
Alcohol addiction is a complex health condition. It can affect every aspect of a person’s life and requires comprehensive treatment.
A comprehensive AUD treatment plan usually begins with a medically supported detox program. A detox program may include:
- Round-the-clock supervision and access to medical treatment
- Medications to ensure safety and reduce withdrawal symptoms
- Emotional support, including individual and group therapy
- Mindfulness, nutrition support, yoga, and other holistic therapies to soothe the body and mind
Medical detox programs typically occur in an inpatient setting. After completing detox, people may transition into a comprehensive outpatient program that includes:
- Medication management and medical treatment
- Treatment for co-occurring disorders
- Support groups
- Education
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual and group counseling
- Holistic therapies
- Relapse prevention
- Coping skills
- Counseling and education for family members
- Aftercare planning and support
Treatment centers may offer detox and comprehensive programs. It is essential to find a center that offers programs that meet your unique needs.
How to Choose the Best Alcohol Detox Center
There are many rehab centers offering alcohol detox and treatment services in Pompano Beach. Each person has unique needs during detox, treatment, and recovery, so it is crucial to find a high-quality center that can provide the detox and treatment programs needed to support recovery.
Here are some things to look for in a high-quality, comprehensive detox center.
Evidence-based treatment
An alcohol detox center must use evidence-based therapies to provide safe, effective treatment. These therapies include:
- Medications
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual psychotherapy
- Relapse prevention education
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
A detox program may include holistic elements like exercise, mindfulness, and nutrition counseling. However, clients should spend most of their time engaging in evidence-based therapies.
Assessment
A high-quality detox program provides tailored treatment. Medical and mental health professionals continuously assess and re-assess each client’s progress and adjust treatment to meet their changing needs.
Licensure and accreditation
Look for an accredited detox center with licensed staff. Accreditation ensures the center offers safe, evidence-based care and that all staff have proper training and licensure to provide detox services.
There are several ways to find a high-quality detox center in Pompano Beach. You can ask your doctor for recommendations, contact your insurance company to find in-network centers, or contact the intake specialists at First Step Behavioral Health for assistance.
Find an Alcohol Detox Center in Pompano Beach
If you or someone you love struggles with alcohol abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find the highest quality alcohol detox and treatment programs at First Step Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team to learn about your treatment options or to schedule an intake appointment.
