11 Jun 9 Ways to Manage the Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal
The withdrawal symptoms of drinking alcohol can range from uncomfortable to severe. Long-term alcohol abuse can worsen these symptoms over time to the point that you can’t function without alcohol in your system.
If you are stuck at home, here are 9 ways you can manage your alcohol withdrawal symptoms at home.
- Get Medical Assistance If Delirium Tremens Begins
Delirium tremens is an extremely serious condition that serious alcoholics go through. This is characterized by nausea, hallucinations, and seizures. Medical attention is required immediately, as the condition can be life-threatening.
After your recovery in the hospital, it’s probably best that you seek out a facility such as a peaceful drug and alcohol rehab to give you the help you need so that you don’t experience delirium tremens again.
- Replacing Electrolytes
Withdrawal can lead to dehydration and nausea, so it’s important that you drink a lot of fluids when you start to experience these symptoms. Keep several sports drinks in your fridge so that you can replace your electrolytes and stay hydrated.
- Have a First Aid Kit Hand
Find a sturdy container that’s easy to open for you to store your important items in. These aren’t things like bandages and wound ointment; put in items that will keep you grounded and stable, such as those small tokens that remind you of what life without alcohol is like.
- Take A Cold Shower
A very cold shower can reset your body and eliminate those strong urges to start drinking again. Your mind will be clearer, and it can also help you with hot flashes that you may experience during withdrawal.
- Breathing Techniques
Deep breaths re-engage your prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for critical thinking and reasoning. Breathe in for four seconds, hold it for four seconds, and then exhale through your mouth for four seconds.
- Exercising Can Help
Exercise is a great way to get rid of stress, as it gives your body something else to do. Endorphins are also released by the brain, which are responsible for happy feelings.
- Putting Injunctions in Place
You can make it more difficult to obtain alcohol. If there’s a liquor store you usually visit on the way home, drive a different route. Ask your local liquor store vendors to refuse you alcohol, even if you ask for it.
- Remember That the Pain Is Temporary
Despite how agonizing the withdrawal symptoms may be, you have to remember that the pain will go away on its own eventually. You just have to be mentally prepared to ride it out.
- Don’t Endure It Alone
Get your friends and family involved with the detox process so that you have people you can fall back on for support. It’s not an easy process, but there’s no reason you have to go through it all by yourself.
It’s important that you take a stand against your own addiction, no matter how painful it gets. Lean into the pain and realize that you’re stronger than you think. You’ll be much more proud of yourself for coming through the other side than giving in to one more drink.
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Last Updated on June 14, 2021 by Marie Benz MD FAAD