Alcohol abuse has become an epidemic in the United States, with over 15 million Americans suffering from alcohol dependency. In most cases, alcoholism stems from emotional root causes and physical dependence, leading to strong cravings in those who wish to halt their drinking. Detoxification is the first step to recovery from alcoholism, but its safety and success depend on close monitoring and careful treatment. For this reason, those seeking to recover from alcoholism should seek out safe detox at qualified addiction treatment centers.
Why Safe Alcohol Detox Matters
Alcohol dependency occurs due to the effects of ethanol—alcohol’s active ingredient. Ethanol interacts with the brain’s pleasure receptors, reduces heart rate, and hazes cognition—all interpreted by the body as stress reduction. Physically, this leads the body to reduce its natural levels of calming and pleasurable brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. As a result, when alcohol-dependent individuals stop drinking, they experience a host of physical and emotional responses known as “withdrawal” as the body attempts to cope with these chemical imbalances.
While it can be tempting to attempt to detox at home, the reality is that detoxifying without professional help can be physically dangerous—or even fatal in extreme cases. Withdrawal pangs can cause even highly determined individuals to return to drinking when buried feelings that may have been suppressed by alcohol come crashing in. Physically, the body experiences a sudden jolt to its systems when long-term or heavy alcohol use ceases. Depending on the level of alcohol addiction, detoxification can lead to seizures, dehydration, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, and severe exhaustion. This can lead to psychological struggles such as depression, shame, confusion, panic attacks, or suicidal thoughts.
Ensuring Safe Alcohol Detox at Addiction Treatment Centers
Professional detoxification offers safe alcohol detox at addiction treatment centers in a medically supervised environment. Nursing care is provided around the clock to ensure that patients do not experience physical or psychological trauma due to the detox process. Vitals are monitored regularly to ease the withdrawal process and ensure that no complications occur as withdrawal naturally subsides. Dedicated detox units at alcohol addiction treatment centers can provide a smooth transition back to sobriety and homeostasis—with the utmost comfort, support, and safety.
Call Passages Addiction Treatment Center today if you or a loved one is battling an addiction to drugs and alcohol. Our admissions department is available 24/7 and can be reached directly by calling our toll-free number at (888) 397-0112. We look forward to speaking with you soon.
