Alcohol Rehab and Treatment for Alcoholism

Alcohol rehab provides the opportunity to overcome the physical and psychological aspects of the addiction in a private, supportive and comfortable environment

Alcohol rehabilitation can vary in length and intensity but generally speaking, the longer you have used and abused alcohol, the longer and more intensive the treatment you will need. Treatment for alcohol dependence will not only address the problem drinking, but also the psychological and physical problems that often accompany alcoholism.

The desired outcome of any treatment method is to overcome the destructive cycle of alcohol dependence by discovering the root causes of the addictive behaviour. Successful treatment offers long-term sobriety and a healthier life free from the cycle of addiction.

What does alcohol dependence rehab involve?

Rehab involves various stages of progressive care that includes detox, therapy and developing an aftercare plan.

Each component of the programme should be tailored to meet the needs of the individual concerned and should address all the root causes of the addiction. Upon completion of rehabilitation, participation in aftercare services is also recommended.

Alcohol Detoxification

Treatment for alcohol addiction begins with a detoxification under medical supervision. This allows the body to be cleansed of toxins and chemical residues. A detox can be an unpleasant experience with side-effects that include depression, sweats, chills and irritability. Although unpleasant, this stage of treatment is necessary to combat the disease in order to live a healthy life.

Inpatient alcohol rehab

Residential treatment offers 24/7 supervision and care with a focus solely on addiction recovery. It has been proven to be the most effective form of care for anyone seeking long-term abstinence.

Inpatient rehab is recommended to those who drink heavily and are serious about maintaining lasting sobriety. Treatment typically lasts from 30-90 days.

Intensive Outpatient programme (IOP)

Outpatient alcohol rehab involves attendance during the day before returning home or to a sober living facility during the evening.  An outpatient rehab setting can be an effective form of treatment, especially where there are limitations on one’s ability to enter an inpatient programme for an extended time due to work or family commitments.

Most outpatient treatment settings will meet 2-4 hours a days for 3 days a week. Outpatient treatment is still a significant time commitment but can in most cases be arranged to fit around your personal life and work.

Individual and Group Counselling

Counselling is a component of alcohol rehab that is most effective when done in conjunction with other forms of treatment. It is also helpful as part of follow-up aftercare on completion of a more intensive treatment programme. Therapy is effective at helping to find the root causes of addictions and teaching coping skills for future sobriety.

Sober living

Sober living usually follows inpatient treatment for alcoholism. Living with other people who are themselves in recovery provides a supportive transitional environment that is alcohol and drug-free.

Some alcohol rehab treatment centres will offer sober living accommodation as part of an overall treatment initiative. Sober living is particularly useful if you are concerned about relapse after completing an intensive inpatient programme.

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Alcoholics Anonymous and Support Groups

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is an international fellowship for those who have had a problem with drinking alcohol. It is available in most countries as a self-supporting, multiracial and apolitical group. There are no age or education requirements.