Did you know that alcohol is a major risk factor for disease and death? If you’re struggling with drinking, we can help.
Are you wondering what to expect at alcohol rehab? Not to worry! In this guide, we’ll go over what it’s like at an inpatient rehab.
Want to learn more? Keep reading to find out.
The First Check-In
When you arrive, you’ll have an intake questionnaire or interview. A staff will chat with you to learn more about your situation.
The medical professional will want to know about any other co-occurring conditions. They will develop a treatment plan for your psychiatric and physical needs.
Withdrawing From Alcohol
You will start the detox process when you first arrive. During this time, you will experience uncomfortable psychological and physical symptoms.
Physical symptoms can include headaches, nausea, fever, seizures, or shakiness. You might even notice you sweat a lot and have a rapid heartbeat.
For psychological symptoms, you might experience depression, anxiety, or mood swings. You also might feel agitated or have nightmares. Some people report hallucinations.
Seizures, fevers, and hallucinations often occur from an extreme withdrawal. This is why it’s essential to go to a medical detox center.
Otherwise, you can suffer from a reaction called delirium tremens, which is life-threatening.
At the facility, your health team will give you medications to ease symptoms. This will make the detox a lot easier to bear.
You Will Start Therapy
Once you have finished detoxing, you will start therapy. This may include individual and group therapy.
Therapy will help you understand why you want to drink. It will also teach you how to identify triggers. When you know what triggers your cravings, you can develop coping skills.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy teaches you how to recognize specific thought patterns. You can interrupt the way you respond and learn new behaviors.
If you experienced trauma, you could try trauma-focused CBT. Your therapist will take into consideration how past traumas affected your current behaviors. You will learn how there is a connection between your trauma and alcoholism.
Interpersonal therapy will teach you how to build a social network. This will keep away loneliness and ease depression.
By having a community of people around you, you can call a friend when you feel unwell.
Preparation for After Rehab
Near the end of your rehab, you will attend sessions to prepare for your return home. This way, the transition isn’t as bumpy.
During these educational sessions, you will learn about resources in your area. You will continue to develop coping strategies to avoid relapsing.
They might suggest you join Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Most programs stay connected with their clients after the completion of the treatment.
You can meet with alumni and stay connected to a community. Check out an Alcohol Treatment Center near where you live.
Now You Know More About Alcohol Rehab
We hope you found this guide on inpatient rehab helpful. If you need help, head to an alcohol rehab center today.
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