Early Recovery from Alcohol
Early recovery from alcohol can be difficult for many individuals, but is often the period of time when clarity begins to take over. So what can you expect once you finally make the decision to stop drinking?
Alcohol Withdrawal – It’s Dangerous
YOU SHOULD ALWAYS SEEK MEDICAL ASSISTANCE FOR THIS PROCESS!
The first 6 to 72 hours are the most uncomfortable because withdrawal symptoms begin. Alcohol detox can be deadly. Alcohol related seizures set in 6 hours after the last drink. This period is often followed by hallucinations and delirium tremens (DT’s). DT’s can be deadly, so a medically assisted detox is recommended for quitting alcohol.
Once a detox is completed (usually 5 to 7 days), you can still experience some post acute withdrawal symptoms. These include anxiety, depression, irritability, and sleeplessness. These symptoms may also increase cravings for alcohol.
Learn More: Detox from Alcohol
Long-Term Treatment for Alcohol Dependence
After years of excessive drinking, the physical need for alcohol can be curbed through detox. However, the brain has become chemically dependent on alcohol in order to function. Along with the post acute withdrawal symptoms, the racing thoughts can lead you to thinking the only relief to these feelings is alcohol.
Treatment for alcoholism is recommended after a detox is completed. Being in a controlled environment while having racing thoughts and experiencing post acute withdrawal symptoms will help you focus on living without alcohol.
Read More: Making the Decision to Get Sober
Early Recovery from Alcohol
About one month after being free of alcohol, your body beings to repair itself. Liver fat can decrease 15-20%. Fat in the liver can lead to liver damage. Blood glucose levels can drop nearly 16%. This can help decrease the risk of developing diabetes. Blood cholesterol can decrease by nearly 5% which can decrease the chances of heart disease. The longer the time away from alcohol the brain repairs the neurotransmitters damaged by drinking.
It is important to stay connected to people who have overcome their alcoholism. 12 step programs such as AA are recommended as well as follow any treatment plans suggested constructed in treatment. All suggestions given by anyone who have overcome drinking should be taken into consideration if you want to live an alcohol free life.
Recovery from Alcohol is Possible
Rock Recovery Center has been helping alcoholics and their families overcome the disease of alcoholism for many years. We have treatment specialists available 24 hours a day to answer any questions you might have. If we can’t personally help you at our facility, we will help guide you through the process of finding a reputable program that can provide the individualized treatment you or your loved one might need.
