Making the decision to quit alcohol is a brave and transformative choice. Embarking on the path to treat alcohol addiction is a courageous and potentially life-altering decision. For many, navigating getting help can feel like a maze. In this blog we’ll dive into what you can expect from alcohol addiction treatment and hopefully shed some light on what the path to recovery looks like.
Assessment & Evaluation
Upon entering an alcohol treatment program, one of the first things to be done is a comprehensive assessment. Nearly every treatment program in the country conducts an introductory evaluation. The purpose is to assess for co-occurring mental health disorders, potential medical issues, and obtain previous history on substance abuse, trauma, and psychological/emotional issues. All of this information is used by the clinical and medical team to create a personalized treatment plan.
Detoxification
Over half of individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder will experience some form of withdrawal symptoms when they stop drinking. Because of the potentially life threatening effects of alcohol withdrawal, most people will spend at least 24 hours in medical detox before continuing into the residential phase of treatment. The time spent in detox will vary depending on the withdrawal symptoms. If symptoms are severe and the individual needs around the clock medical supervision, they may be in detox for 7-10 days. On average 5-7 days is normal and even less if there doesn’t appear to be severe withdrawal occurring.
Therapy & Counseling
Once medically stable, the next phase of treatment for alcohol addiction is the residential phase. During this time you’ll be living on campus and spending the majority of your day in therapy. This can look like several different things. It may be group therapy, individual therapeutic sessions, experiential therapy, etc. This is where a lot of the real growth occurs. During these sessions, emotions will be processed, coping skills, stress management, and relapse prevention skills will be learned. If detox and aftercare are the bread of an alcohol treatment sandwich, the clinical aspect of treatment is the meat. Therapy is at the core of recovery.
Aftercare Planning
Every treatment center should provide a personalized aftercare plan that emphasizes the importance of continued support. Aftercare planning is about crafting a seamless and accountable transition from treatment back into everyday life. This may include ongoing therapy, participation in support groups and/or 12-step programs, and medication-assisted treatment to manage cravings. One of the biggest factors of successful aftercare planning is the implementation of a robust support network. These support systems are crucial for long-term sobriety and happiness in recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol and considering quitting, call Country Road Recovery today. Our staff can answer any questions and field any concerns you or they may have about treatment.