Is it a good idea to attempt alcohol detox at home? After all, we have all seen the ads for detox from home products. They range from lung detox to bowel cleanse. But, when it comes to something as complex as alcoholism, should a person try to manage the withdrawal symptoms without professional assistance? Continue reading to find out why the answer to this question is NO.
A common misconception about drug or alcohol addiction is that the person could quit if they had enough willpower. Many people take a condescending attitude when the subject of addiction is discussed. In their opinion, the addict is selfish and lazy. As a result of this stigma, many alcoholics believe they are responsible for their condition and should be able to overcome it with willpower alone. Others avoid professional treatment due to financial reasons or from fear of the unknown. Regardless of the reasons, no one should attempt alcohol detox at home if they value their life.
Why Alcohol Detox at Home is a Dangerous Idea
Prolonged alcohol abuse creates a long list of negative health problems. Many of them are ignored or unrecognized because the person is always drunk or sleeping off a binge. As these problems accumulate, the body weakens and is no longer able to ward off bacteria that cause illness. An individual in this state of physical demise will experience intense or life-threatening withdrawal symptoms during detox.
Some of the dangerous alcohol withdrawal symptoms include:
- Heart palpitations
- Seizures
- High blood pressure
- Blackouts
- Hallucinations
- Kidney or liver failure
- Delirium tremens (DTs)
- Stroke
- Coma
If a person is attempting detox at home, no one is qualified to manage the above issues. In a professional detox facility, the patient will be monitored 24/7 by addiction specialists and medical staff to ensure a safe and effective detox process.
Why is Professional Detox Recommended?
It is important to remember that alcoholism has damaged the person’s physical and mental health. Detoxing from home would only address the physical aspect of addiction, but many of the health problems will persist. However, in a professional detox facility, the recovering alcoholic benefits from a safe detox process with caring, skilled staff nearby at all times. If a medical emergency arises, they know how to respond. In severe cases of alcoholism, medications are available to help ease the withdrawal discomfort.
Immediately after detox, the individual should enter an inpatient rehabilitation program. Rehab is crucial to the overall successful recovery of an alcoholic for many reasons. For instance, the individual is struggling with poor self-esteem and possibly needs to learn a new set of guiding principles to follow in their new life. The inpatient program is designed to be flexible so the patient can create a regimen best suited for their needs. Some of the options available include:
- Group or Individual Counseling
- Life Skills Training
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Music and Art Therapy
- Exercise and Fitness Routines
- Martial Arts, Yoga, Acupuncture
- Nutritional Guidance
- Parenting Classes
- GED Preparation
- Aftercare Services
Of course, each program is different and may offer various options. But, they all follow a basic curriculum that seeks to restore confidence, enhance coping skills, and establish a reconnection with spirituality. In this way, the whole person heals.
If you are ready to reclaim your life from the ravages of alcoholism, alcohol detox at home is not the solution. Call our toll-free number today to learn more about the benefits of professional detox and rehab. One of our representatives will answer any questions you may have and can help you select a program that is best suited for your needs.
