Alcohol Rehab - Rehab Guide

Alcohol Rehab

Alcohol Rehab

The thought of alcohol rehab can raise many questions: Is it necessary? What does it involve? How do I know if it’s the right step? This page is here to provide clarity and reassurance, guiding you through what alcohol rehab is and how it can help. 

Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or someone you care about, we’ll help you understand when alcohol rehab might be needed and what to expect.

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What is alcohol rehab?

An alcohol addiction can be devastating for everyone involved. It has the ability to cause havoc in every aspect of life, making help and support vital. Alcohol rehab provides a supportive and structured environment for a person to regain control of their lives

While many believe alcohol rehab to be a chance to “just stop drinking”, it goes much deeper than this. 

At its core, alcohol rehab aims to heal the person as a whole, addressing not just the physical effects of alcohol but also the emotional and psychological challenges it creates. This often involves:

  • Detox to safely manage alcohol  withdrawal
  • Therapies to uncover the root causes of addiction and provide solutions to help manage the addiction.
  • Post-rehab support to fine-tune relapse prevention techniques

The different types of alcohol rehab

There are two main types of alcohol rehab: inpatient and outpatient. Inpatient alcohol rehab involves staying at a dedicated facility, where you receive 24/7 care and support in a structured environment. Outpatient alcohol rehab, on the other hand, allows you to live at home while attending scheduled therapy sessions and treatment programmes.

While the choice between the two is ultimately yours, these options exist for a reason: the severity of alcohol addiction can vary greatly. For those facing more severe challenges, inpatient rehab is often the safer and more effective option.

Given the devastating and dangerous nature of alcohol addiction, inpatient rehab options are highly recommended.

The ‘right time’ for alcohol rehab

You might feel unsure about when to consider alcohol rehab, especially if it’s something you’ve never had to think about before. How do you know if it’s the right time? The truth is, there’s rarely a ‘perfect moment,’ but alcohol rehab can benefit anyone at any point during the addiction cycle.

This could be in the early stages of addiction, with rehab being used as a preventative step, or when the problem has grown more serious and needs focused care. Remember, alcohol rehab offers support at any stage.

If you’re unsure what signs might point to a potential issue with alcohol, here are some key indicators to consider:

  • Needing alcohol to start the day or feel ‘normal’.
  • Struggling to control how much or how often you drink.
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like shaking, sweating or nausea when not drinking.
  • Drinking despite negative consequences in work, relationships or health.
  • Hiding or lying about your drinking habits to others.
  • Neglecting responsibilities or activities you once enjoyed because of drinking.
  • Continuing to drink even when it’s causing financial or legal problems.
  • Concern from loved ones about the amount or frequency of your drinking.

If you’ve noticed one or more of these signs, it could indicate that you may benefit from alcohol rehab.

Addressing the misconceptions about alcohol rehab

Rehab of any kind is a deeply personal experience, and because of this, most people aren’t comfortable openly sharing what happens when they go. These days, the internet is often the main source of information, but with limited firsthand accounts available, it’s easy for scepticism to creep in.

This has led to common misconceptions about alcohol rehab, with some believing it’s like a form of punishment for being addicted to alcohol.

In reality, these ideas couldn’t be further from the truth. Over the years, we’ve heard many misconceptions about alcohol rehab and below, we address these thoughts:

1. Rehab is like a prison. You’re not allowed to leave.

  • Misconception: Many believe that once you enter rehab, you’re locked in and forced to stay no matter what.

  • Truth: Rehab is a voluntary process. You’re not confined or held against your will and leaving is always your decision. Rehab centres are supportive environments, not restrictive ones.

2. Rehab is only for people who have hit “rock bottom.”

  • Misconception: Some think rehab is only necessary for people who’ve completely lost control of their lives.

  • Truth: Rehab can benefit anyone who’s struggling with alcohol, whether they’ve just started noticing a problem or are dealing with a more serious addiction. Seeking help early can prevent things from worsening.

3. You’ll be judged or shamed in rehab.

  • Misconception: People fear that rehab staff or others in treatment will look down on them for their addiction.

  • Truth: Rehab is a judgment-free zone. The staff are compassionate professionals, and others in rehab are there for similar reasons, creating a supportive and understanding community.

4. Rehab is unaffordable unless you’re wealthy.

  • Misconception: Many think rehab is only accessible to people with significant financial resources.
  • Truth: While some private rehabs can be costly, there are many affordable options available, including NHS services and charitable organisations, that make treatment accessible for a wide range of people.

5. Rehab is a one-size-fits-all approach.

  • Misconception: Some believe that alcohol rehab programmes are rigid and don’t account for personal needs.

  • Truth: Alcohol rehab programmes are tailored to each person. Your treatment plan will reflect your unique challenges, goals and circumstances to give you the best chance of recovery.

4 pillars of addiction recovery


A closer look at alcohol rehab

At this point, you may be wondering exactly what happens during alcohol rehab. We’ve talked about what it isn’t and what it is, but without clearly outlining what to expect, it’s easy for misconceptions to linger. That’s why we’re happy to provide a step-by-step overview of what happens during alcohol rehab.

Check-up and first conversations

Most rehab centres start by checking your overall health to make sure there are no underlying issues that need attention. When someone is struggling with alcohol addiction, personal care often takes a backseat, so this is the perfect opportunity to see how your body is doing. This might include identifying health concerns directly linked to alcohol use or other missed issues.

You’ll also meet with the centre’s professional mental health team, who will determine if you need extra support throughout your rehab journey. These conversations are an opportunity for you to share your story and set the stage for personalised care that meets your specific needs.

Alcohol detox

Detoxing from alcohol is a necessary step to clear it from your body, but it’s often the most challenging stage of rehab. The good news is that you don’t have to face it alone. Many people have tried detoxing at home and found the symptoms too overwhelming to manage.

In a supervised detox, you’ll be supported by professionals who use counselling and, if needed, medications to ease withdrawal symptoms. This ensures you are safe and as comfortable as possible while your body adjusts to being alcohol-free. It’s a difficult step, but it’s also one that paves the way for real recovery.

Therapies used in alcohol rehab

Detox is an essential part of alcohol rehab, but it’s far from the end of the journey. Many people assume that once alcohol is out of their system, the work is done—but that’s just the beginning.

Therapies focus on uncovering and addressing the root causes of your addiction. They aim to help you understand what brought you to this point and equip you with tools to prevent relapse. Here are some but not all, of the key therapies you can expect:

CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)

This therapy helps you identify and challenge negative thought patterns that fuel your addiction. By recognising these triggers, you can develop healthier ways to respond, improving both your mindset and your ability to resist alcohol.

DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy)

DBT is particularly useful for managing intense emotions or stress that may lead to drinking. It teaches practical skills like emotional regulation and distress tolerance, giving you tools to handle life’s challenges more effectively.

1-on-1 counselling

One-on-one sessions provide a private and safe space to discuss your personal experiences with addiction. This is your time to explore sensitive issues, address trauma or simply talk through feelings you may have been bottling up.

Group therapy

In a group setting, you’ll connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Sharing experiences, hearing different perspectives and receiving support from peers can be incredibly beneficial and may help reduce feelings of isolation.


Does finishing alcohol rehab mean I’m sober?

When you complete alcohol rehab, you will have gone through a period of not drinking, which technically qualifies as being sober. However, sobriety in the context of alcohol addiction recovery isn’t as straightforward as simply abstaining from alcohol for a set period. Many people associate the word ‘sober’ with being fully recovered or even ‘cured,’ but addiction recovery doesn’t work in absolutes.

In reality, finishing alcohol rehab is the start of a new chapter rather than the end of the journey. Alcohol rehab provides you with the tools and strategies needed to address your addiction, but it’s up to you to continue using them in everyday life. Recovery is an ongoing process, one that requires effort, reflection and sometimes, adjustments.

This is why many rehab programmes include aftercare services. These can take the form of continued therapy sessions and even access to support groups like 12-step programmes. These types of support offer a safe space to discuss how you’re applying the skills learned during rehab and identify areas where you might need additional support.

For example, if you’ve faced situations where cravings were stronger than expected or old habits crept back in, this support can help you reflect on these moments. The main aim here is to focus on learning from these experiences and strengthening your resolve to stay sober. You’ll also find encouragement and guidance from others on the same path, reminding you that recovery is not something you have to navigate alone.


What are the next steps?

If you or someone you care about is struggling with alcohol addiction, it’s important to know that help is available. Whether you’re looking for rehab for alcohol abuse or seeking guidance on the rehabilitation of alcoholics, we’re here to provide the support you need with care and urgency.

Our team can provide free support to help you explore the best options, offering access to accredited alcohol rehabs across the UK. We work with trusted alcohol rehab centres, ensuring immediate admission is available when it’s most needed.

Don’t wait to take the next step. Contact us to start the journey toward recovery for yourself or a loved one today.

FAQs

What is rehab like for alcoholics?

Rehab for alcoholics provides a safe and supportive space for recovery. Rehabilitation facilities for alcohol include detox, therapy and aftercare. Each alcoholism rehab programme is personalised, focusing on long-term healing and a healthier lifestyle.

How does an alcohol addiction rehab work?

Alcohol addiction rehab helps individuals overcome drinking habits through detox, therapy and support. Rehabilitation centres for alcoholism focus on both physical and emotional recovery. These programmes guide individuals toward a healthier and addiction-free future.

Do I need rehab for alcohol abuse?

If alcohol affects your health or relationships, rehabilitation for drinking can help. Rehabs for alcoholics provide professional support and therapy. They also offer alcohol intervention services to help individuals start their recovery journey.

Where can I find an alcohol rehab centre in the UK?

The UK offers many rehabilitation facilities for alcohol addiction. Drink rehabilitation programmes include detox and therapy. These centres provide liquor addiction treatment and ongoing support to ensure long-term recovery and well-being.

References

  1. Sachdeva A, Choudhary M, Chandra M. Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome: Benzodiazepines and Beyond. J Clin Diagn Res. 2015 Sep;9(9):VE01-VE07. doi: 10.7860/JCDR/2015/13407.6538. Epub 2015 Sep 1. PMID: 26500991; PMCID: PMC4606320.
  2. T, Buddy. “CBT for Alcoholism and Drug Addiction: Does It Work?” Verywell Mind, Verywell Mind, 6 Dec. 2023, www.verywellmind.com/cognitive-behavior-therapy-for-addiction-67893. 
  3. Maffei C, Cavicchioli M, Movalli M, Cavallaro R, Fossati A. Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Training in Alcohol Dependence Treatment: Findings Based on an Open Trial. Subst Use Misuse. 2018 Dec 6;53(14):2368-2385. doi: 10.1080/10826084.2018.1480035. Epub 2018 Jun 29. PMID: 29958050.
  4. Wendt DC, Gone JP. Complexities with group therapy facilitation in substance use disorder specialty treatment settings. J Subst Abuse Treat. 2018 May;88:9-17. doi: 10.1016/j.jsat.2018.02.002. Epub 2018 Feb 16. PMID: 29606227; PMCID: PMC5990965.

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