When someone enters a rehabilitation center, detoxification is only the first step in a longer process. The process of detox involves cleaning the system of all alcohol and in general takes about 7-10 days. During this time, there may be a variety of symptoms that arise depending on how bad the dependency on alcohol is. The symptoms can be as mild as headaches and nausea to actually having the DT’s. The detox period is basically the same regardless of the chemical involved in the addiction.
It is after the detox that the real work begins. As mentioned, detox is only the first step. A good inpatient rehabilitation stay can last upwards of 45 days. Detox takes care of the actual physical dependence on alcohol, but then the alcoholic must work on the psychological and spiritual aspects of healing. They must learn what triggers their desire for alcohol and learn coping methods and ways of handling stress other than drinking. Even after the alcohol is out of the system, via detox, the desire to drink will still be there.
How long does it take to detox from alcohol?
Besides detox, an alcoholic should have therapy. They should learn their strengths in order to better fight the urge to drink. There is a lot of work an alcoholic must do in order to be ready to face their everyday life again. In fact, many times, they are urged NOT to return to everyday life but make some changes. Naturally, if a person used to spend a lot of time at a bar or tavern, it is best they find something else to do with their time after rehabilitation.
For those who relapse, it is not the detox that didn’t work, but rather something psychological that wasn’t worked out. If relapse does occur, detox must be repeated but if done soon enough; the process may not be as hard on the person as the first detox. It is a necessary part of healing and unless detoxification occurs, an alcoholic cannot and will not be able to learn how to stay away from alcohol. Sheer willpower isn’t always enough. This is why inpatient treatment is better many times than outpatient. With inpatient treatment, there is a safe haven, trained staff and helpful materials and tools to help deal with detox and rehabilitation.
