The decision to go to rehab for alcoholism and addiction is never an easy one. People caught in the throes of alcoholism are usually convinced they do not have a problem, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. While much ink is spilled explaining how to get an alcoholic to agree to check in to rehab, there is very little information on what alcohol rehab is actually like. While each and every individual and treatment center will treat rehab differently, here is a broad view of what it is like to be in an alcohol rehabilitation center.

What is Alcohol Rehab?

When people refer to “rehab”, they are usually referring to an inpatient rehabilitation center. Inpatient rehab is an intense form of alcohol addiction treatment, although rehab exists for a wide variety of addictions and ailments. During rehab, you will be isolated from your peers, loved ones, and perhaps most importantly alcohol for a period of addiction therapy with trained rehabilitation professionals. Conversely, outpatient rehab is when you continue to live your everyday life and meet with addiction treatment professionals a few times a week.

How Long is Rehab for Alcohol Addiction?

Typically, rehab starts as a program that lasts anywhere from 28 to 30 days. However, some programs can last 60 or even 90 days, depending on the severity of the alcoholic’s addiction.

Intake When You Begin Rehab

Intake is an initial assessment performed by your alcohol counselor to get a good sense of your history with alcohol. By asking a series of questions, the counselor will determine the best method to treat your addiction. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions about what your treatment will consist of in the coming weeks. During intake, you will also be asked to read various legal forms and documents and sign them to make sure you understand the rules and regulations of inpatient alcohol rehab.

Detox From Alcohol Addiction

If you have a strong addiction to alcohol and have been drinking heavily in the days leading up to rehab, it is often necessary for you to have a medically-supervised detoxification. During detox, the first step is usually to monitor and control the physical symptoms of alcohol withdrawal and reach a stable point. During a medically supervised detox, vital signs will be monitored to ensure your safety through the withdrawal process.The goal is to make detox as comfortable as possible, but withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable regardless of the amount of medication provided. Stopping drinking “cold turkey” is never recommended without medical supervision as alcohol withdrawal can cause delirium tremens (DTs) which can be fatal.

What is a Typical Day in an Alcohol Rehabilitation Facility Like?

A typical day in rehab mostly consists of therapy sessions, either in a group setting or one on one. There will also be a few meetings with a doctor to monitor your health and make sure everything is going as planned. Meals are given to patients 3 times a day, and short breaks to walk around are offered between therapy sessions. There will also be homework assignments to complete, journaling, yoga, exercise and time for reflection.

Alcohol Addiction Research Studies in San Diego at The Pearson Center

The Pearson Center for Alcoholism and Addiction Research is not an alcohol rehabilitation center, but it does offer clinical research studies for those with alcohol abuse and addiction. The goal of The Pearson Center is to unlock a new and more effective way to treat alcoholism, and by participating in a study you will get access to the latest treatment to help beat alcoholism. If you are interested in learning more, give us a call at (858) 784-7867.