Supporting a loved one through an alcohol detox isn’t easy. There are so many uncertainties, with people experiencing all manner of withdrawal symptoms as week as types of behavior. However, it’s also a necessity if a loved one is struggling with addiction and needs to get their life back on track.
Going through an alcohol detox can be both physically and mentally demanding but with the right approach you really can make a huge difference, helping your loved one navigate the challenging journey towards recovery.
So, if you have a loved one who is at the very beginning of their Alcohol Addiction Recovery in Essex, here’s exactly how you can support them through that very first stage, detox…
Understand the Detox Process
Prior to offering support you should take a deep dive into what the detox process is and what it involves. Ultimately, a detox is the period of time in which you allow the body to rid itself of alcohol. It’s essentially the period in which you wipe the slate clean to start again. However, due to the body being reliant on alcohol and being so used to having it in the system, there are withdrawal symptoms that can occur. On a milder scale, this can involve shaking, sweating, nausea, headaches and anxiety. However, in more severe cases, which could occur when addiction has been prolonged or drinking has been particularly heavy, the likes of seizures and delirium tremens could occur, which can be fatal.
Therefore, it’s important to go through a detox under medical supervision. Understanding this can help you advise your loved one on how to go through the process and ensure they remain safe throughout it.
Offer Emotional Support
Naturally, one of the best things you can bring to the table in terms of support is emotional support. Withdrawal can bring out a range of emotions, from guilt to shame, anxiety to frustration. What’s more, it can be an incredibly scary period of time so being that shoulder to cry on and that listening ear can make all the difference.
Let your loved one know that you’re there for them and show patience and understanding in their progress. Recognise the good days and provide encouragement and love during the bad, as well as allowing them to progress at their own rate.
Encourage Professional Help
We’ve already mentioned the dangers of detoxing, so it’s important to encourage them to get professional help. This is especially the case if they have previously been heavy drinkers. An alcohol detox is always best managed by healthcare professionals as they can monitor symptoms, provide medication to ease withdrawal, as well as offering psychological support.
It’s also worth considering the likes of counselling and therapy during this process, which can help get started on underlying issues that contribute to their dependence, while you should also discuss rehab, which can provide them with all the tools they need for success in recovery.
Be Patient with the Process
Alcohol detox is not a quick fix – it’s a process that requires time and patience. The initial stages of detox can be particularly difficult, with physical and emotional symptoms peaking in the first 48 to 72 hours. However, recovery is a gradual process, and it is essential to keep in mind that setbacks may occur. Progress can be slow, and relapses are possible, so offering patience and reassurance is key.
Celebrate small victories along the way, such as a day of sobriety or a successful completion of a detox session. These moments can provide much-needed motivation for your loved one to keep moving forward.
Create a Supportive Environment
One of the most important ways you can support your loved one is by helping to create a supportive environment at home. Remove any triggers or temptations, such as alcohol, from your home. If your loved one associates certain people, places, or activities with drinking, try to help them avoid those situations during the detox process.
Offering a calm, stable, and nurturing atmosphere can make a big difference. Consider engaging in activities together that are supportive of their recovery, such as going for walks, cooking healthy meals, or watching uplifting movies. Building a routine that focuses on healthy habits and self-care can also be beneficial.
Offer Practical Help
In addition to emotional support, there may be practical ways you can assist your loved one during their detox journey. This could include helping with household chores, offering transportation to appointments, or assisting with other responsibilities that might feel overwhelming during this time.
You might also want to help your loved one stay hydrated and nourished, as their body will be working hard to detoxify. Encourage them to eat balanced meals and drink plenty of water to help replenish their system.
Know When to Seek Additional Help
If your loved one’s symptoms worsen, or if they experience severe withdrawal symptoms like confusion, seizures, or hallucinations, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. Alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous, and your loved one’s health must always be the priority.
Additionally, if they show signs of emotional distress, depression, or suicidal thoughts, professional mental health support is crucial. Alcohol detox can bring up underlying psychological issues, and ensuring that your loved one has access to the necessary care can make all the difference in their recovery.
