Alcohol detox is a process that helps individuals overcome addiction to alcohol, and often the first step necessary to begin recovery. At Buckhead Behavioral Health, we help individuals begin alcohol detox in Atlanta support and care for individuals who are struggling with alcohol addiction. This process is the first step to recovery and helps to alleviate the withdrawal symptoms that come with alcohol withdrawal. Buckhead Behavioral Health is proud to partner with multiple detoxes in the metro-Atlanta area and facilitate detox before entering our outpatient programming.
What is Alcohol Detox?
Alcohol detox is a process of removing alcohol from the body. It is done in a safe and controlled environment to ensure that individuals are kept safe from any harm. This process is necessary because alcohol is a depressant drug that affects the central nervous system, and when an individual stops drinking, the body goes through withdrawal symptoms.
What to Expect During Alcohol Detox in Atlanta
During detox, individuals can expect to be monitored by medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers. The staff will check the individual’s vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature. The person will then be evaluated to determine the appropriate treatment plan and next steps for their specific needs. Group therapy, individual therapy, case management, and emotional support are also offered as individuals go through this uncomfortable process.
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Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
The withdrawal symptoms that occur during alcohol detox can be uncomfortable and even life-threatening in some cases. Some of the symptoms that individuals may experience include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Tremors
- Nausea and vomiting
- Insomnia
- Sweating
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Delirium tremens
It is important to note that not everyone experiences the same withdrawal symptoms, and the severity can vary from person to person. In addition, the alcohol withdrawal symptom timeline varies from person to person depending on how much the individual has been drinking and for how long.
What Medications Are Used to Detox From Alcohol?
There are several medications that can be used to help with alcohol detox. Some of the most common medications include:
- Benzodiazepines – These medications are used to treat anxiety and can help to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures and tremors.
- Naltrexone – This medication helps to reduce cravings for alcohol and can be taken orally or as an injection.
- Disulfiram – This medication works by making the individual feel sick if they consume alcohol, which can help to deter them from drinking.
- Acamprosate – This medication helps to reduce cravings for alcohol and can be taken orally.
Can I Detox from Alcohol at Home?
Outpatient alcohol detox is possible, but it is not recommended for individuals who have a severe addiction or who are at risk for withdrawal symptoms. Outpatient alcohol detox may be appropriate for individuals who have a milder addiction and who have a strong support system at home. However, outpatient alcohol detox should only be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
What Happens After Alcohol Detox?
After alcohol detox, individuals will need to continue with their treatment plan to maintain their sobriety. This may include therapy, counseling, and support groups, medication-assisted treatment, family therapy, red light therapy, and more. Before entering our program, one of our admissions coordinators will discuss the program in detail with you and conduct a clinical assessment to determine which level of care you’re the best fit for. It is important to remember that addiction is a chronic disease, and ongoing treatment is necessary for long-term recovery. Our levels of care include the following:
Find Alcohol Detox in Atlanta Today!
The addiction specialists at Buckhead Behavioral Health understand what it takes to recover from addiction. With Masters level clinicians and medical staff, we want to help you get back on the right path. We’ve helped thousands of individuals get sober and create a new life of possibilities. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction or mental health issues, call us today. Help is just one step away.
