Intro to Alcohol Withdrawals
Simply stated, alcohol withdrawals are symptoms that happen when a person stops drinking.
These can happen to anyone, but it is pervasive in people who suffer from alcohol use disorder (alcoholism). A person with AUD can’t control their drinking. They may have tried before and have likely seen damage in their lives because of their drinking, but still, they keep drinking. Because a person’s body begins to depend on alcohol after long periods of use, when the flow stops, these brain and body functions that were handled by alcohol are now absent.
Understanding Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
As mentioned, a person’s body and brain need the effects of alcohol. So when intake stops, they feel it. The alcohol withdrawal symptoms could be relatively mild, like sweating, headaches, or nausea. But they can also be severe: seizures, tremors, delirium tremens, which may include confusion, disorientation, hallucinations, tremors, and autonomic hyperactivity, and should be considered a life-threatening emergency.
The Psychology of Alcohol Withdrawal
But it gets worse. Once the body has cleansed itself of the substance of alcohol, a person’s brain still wants it. The depths of psychological addiction are vast. Often a person with an alcohol addiction also has other mental health issues. These could be anxiety, depression, personality disorders, or more. And alcohol was a way to cope.
As well, alcohol cravings are pretty intense, especially early in recovery. Add triggers we cannot control, social pressures, and unexpected life occurrences. In some cases, individuals may experience post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), a longer-term withdrawal phase characterized by mood swings, ongoing sleep problems, and cognitive impairment. Though these are not technically acute withdrawals, they are important to understand when considering alcohol addiction treatment.
Managing and Treating Alcohol Withdrawal
For all those mentioned physical and psychological symptoms, a person looking to stop drinking should talk to a doctor or addiction treatment professional. Withdrawals can be dangerous. The process of a professionally monitored alcohol detox is the safest and most successful approach. As well, at a high-quality detox program in Costa Mesa, medications (or medication assisted detox) such as benzodiazepines can help manage withdrawal symptoms, prevent complications, and increase comfort during detox.
A detox center will also offer the crucial psychological treatment necessary for real recovery. These range from pragmatic (life skills and relationship building) to psychologically profound (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or support groups). Lasting recovery includes looking closely at root issues and thought patterns that led to harmful, self-destructive behaviors. Other programs, such as 12 Steps or SMART Recovery, have proven vital for lasting recovery. A quality detox treatment center in California will have all these options for clients.
Holistic therapies and social support systems are also critical in recovery. They help address the whole person, not just the addiction, by focusing on lifestyle modifications, stress management, nutritional guidance, and other essential aspects of well-being.
What to Do if You Have Alcohol Withdrawals
Have you had alcohol withdrawals? Withdrawals are a big sign of physical dependence, which means addiction is likely present. The first step is talking to a professional about what is happening. Withdrawals will vary by person, but all of them should be taken seriously.
If you want to talk to a professional addiction treatment specialist, call Saddleback Recovery today. Our informational call will help you clarify your situation and offer concrete advice on your next steps. Remember, there is always time to start the journey towards recovery.
