Alcohol Rehab

If you or someone you care about needs help with drinking too much alcohol, there is no need to feel embarrassed or ashamed. We’re here to help you.

At Action Rehab, we have access to CQC-registered alcohol rehab clinics across the UK that are approved and safe for helping people overcome alcohol dependence.

We know it can be really tough to decide to go to rehab for alcohol. It might feel scary, but you’re not alone. Many people have been where you are, and we’ve helped them get better, stop drinking, and move forward with their lives.

 

Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol addiction, also known as alcoholism, is a chronic disease marked by uncontrolled drinking and preoccupation with alcohol. It’s a disease where individuals cannot manage their drinking habits mentally, emotionally or physically.

Alcohol addiction is characterised by a dependency that remains despite serious personal, occupational, or health consequences.

The Common Causes and Risk Factors of Alcoholism

Alcoholism can affect any individual at any stage of their life. It can be caused by several factors, including genetic, psychological, social, and environmental influences.

Genetics can play a significant role, with a family history of addiction increasing the risk. Environmental factors include cultural norms and attitudes towards drinking, stress, and the availability of alcohol.

Psychological aspects might look like developing coping mechanisms for stress or trauma that involve alcohol. Social interactions and peer pressure also significantly contribute to alcohol use and the eventual development of alcoholism.

Signs and Symptoms of an Alcohol Dependence

Although it’s not always easy, recognising the signs and symptoms of alcohol dependence is essential for getting help early. These may include:

• A new tolerance to alcohol: Needing increasingly larger amounts of alcohol to feel its effects.
• Loss of control over drinking: Feeling the urge to drink alcohol, even if you don’t want to.
• Spending time drinking or recovering from the effects of alcohol: This might include frequent and chronic drinking in your everyday life or recovering from hangovers.
• Giving up or reducing social and work activities: Losing interest in hobbies, sports, and other activities that were once enjoyable.
• Using alcohol in dangerous situations: Drinking while driving, operating machinery, or in other unsafe circumstances.
• Continuing to drink despite knowing the problems it’s causing: Persistent alcohol use and an inability to get back on track despite awareness of the physical and psychological harm it’s causing.

These signs can look different, and not all are present in every individual with alcohol dependence. But if you’re noticing something similar, it often is an indicator of alcohol abuse and dependence.

Whatever the circumstances, if you recognise any of the above behaviours in yourself or someone you love, you should seek alcohol addiction treatment as soon as possible.

Consequences of Alcohol Abuse

Reaching out for help is a difficult but (almost always) necessary step towards recovery. Socially, alcoholism can lead to broken relationships, job loss, and financial instability. However, the consequences of prolonged alcohol abuse are severe and wide-ranging.

In extreme cases, untreated alcoholism can go on to affect every organ in the body in some way. This is why it’s so important to seek the support needed to overcome addiction because this outcome is preventable.

Consequences of chronic alcohol abuse include (but are not limited to):

• Liver diseases
• Cardiovascular problems
• Diabetic complications
• Neurological damage
• Psychiatric issues, such as depression and anxiety.

 

What is Alcohol Rehab?

Alcohol rehab is a specialised programme to help individuals recover from alcohol dependence.

Alcohol rehab centres provide comprehensive treatment plans that incorporate a wide range of therapeutic approaches, which are all designed to address both the physical and psychological elements of addiction.

Alcohol rehab programmes can be offered in various settings, including residential alcohol rehab centres, outpatient clinics, and sometimes specialised hospitals.

The core objective of these programmes is to provide a secure and supportive environment where individuals can recover physically from alcohol abuse, as well as learn coping mechanisms and life skills essential for sustaining a life in recovery once treatment comes to an end.

 

Types of Alcohol Rehab Programmes

When it comes to choosing inpatient or outpatient alcohol treatment, every person is different, so what works for one person may not be the preference of another.

Outpatient Rehab Programmes

Outpatient rehab allows individuals to live at home while receiving treatment. These programmes can include therapy sessions several times a week, suitable for those with mild to moderate addiction who are unable to commit to staying at a clinic.

During outpatient alcohol rehab treatment, you will be encouraged to attend counselling and pointed in the direction of external local support groups, group sessions and local addiction support workshops.

Alcohol Detoxification Programmes

Alcohol detox programmes help cleanse the body of alcohol safely.

When you stop drinking, your body might react in uncomfortable ways because it’s used to having alcohol. Detoxification is typically the first step within a residential alcohol rehab setting, as managing withdrawal symptoms normally requires medical supervision and around-the-clock care.

For those with chronic alcohol addiction, it is strongly recommended not to attempt to detox at home alone. Alcohol withdrawal can potentially lead to severe health complications and withdrawal symptoms, such as Delirium Tremens. Alcohol clinics may also provide prescription detox medications in a controlled environment, which can help ease any withdrawal symptoms to the point where you can manage them.

Find out more about alcohol detox treatments.

Inpatient Alcohol Rehab Programmes

Inpatient rehab provides intensive care and is suitable for individuals with severe addiction or those who would benefit from a structured environment. Patients stay at a facility for a pre-agreed duration so that their treatment plans can be completed.

Residential treatment involves living in an environment designed to encourage healing while also receiving around-the-clock medical care, therapy, and support.

Although every rehab will differ slightly in terms of what’s offered within inpatient programmes, they typically include the following:

• Detoxification: The first step in rehab is focusing on safely removing alcohol from the body whilst managing withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision.
• Intensive Addiction Therapy and Counselling: Includes individual, group, and family therapy to address the root causes of addiction and develop coping strategies.
• Self-help Sessions: Programmes designed to inform about the nature of addiction, its effects, managing cravings for alcohol and how to maintain sobriety over the long term.
• Support Groups: Peer support in the form of frequent group sessions to share experiences and offer mutual encouragement.
• Aftercare Planning: Plan development for life after rehab, which involves personalised strategies to prevent relapse and maintain long-term recovery post-rehab.

 

Choosing the Right Alcohol Rehab Centre

If you or someone you know needs help with alcohol addiction, choosing the right alcohol rehab centre is an important step, and it’s essential to have some understanding of what to look for in a rehab centre. This is so you can find the best place to start the journey to recovery.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rehab

When picking an alcohol rehab, it’s essential to think about a few key things:

• Treatment Approaches: Different centres might use different methods to help people stop drinking. Some use medicine, some use talking therapies, and others might use a mix of both.
• Qualifications: Treating addiction is complex, so choosing an alcohol rehab with highly qualified and experienced staff is ideal.
• Clinic Quality: A clean, well-maintained centre can make the recovery process more comfortable and safe.
• Success Rates: Looking at how many people have successfully recovered at the centre can give you an idea of its effectiveness.

How to Evaluate Quality of Care in Rehab Centres

To make sure you’re choosing a high-quality clinic, here are some things to check:

• CQC Accreditation: A rehab clinic registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) is a good choice. The CQC checks these clinics to make sure they are safe and effective at helping people. Being registered means the clinic meets high standards.
• Staff-to-Patient Ratios: More staff per patient can mean better care and more attention for each person.
• Testimonials: Hearing from people who have received treatment at the clinic can help you understand what to expect and whether it has worked for others.

Location and Facility Considerations

The location of the rehab can affect recovery. Some people recover better in a quiet and private spot away from their usual environment. Consider whether being closer to home or further away would be better for recovery.

Alcohol Rehab Cost of Treatment

Inpatient treatment is more costly than outpatient care simply because of the level of care provided. Addiction recovery typically requires intensive therapy, which is not generally found with treatment plans offered outside of a residential environment.

The most significant factors that influence the price of residential treatment are the rehab facility you choose, the duration of your treatment programme, and the cost of prescription medications.

Depending on the rehab facility, there may also be a number of payment options to choose from, and a number of private insurance companies cover inpatient rehab facilities. Get in touch with our team for more information.

 

Alcohol Rehab Treatment Approaches

As every person is different, an adaptive approach tends to be taken when creating a comprehensive alcohol use disorder treatment programme.

Alcohol Rehab Core Treatment Types

Core therapies are likely to be something that all personalised programmes have in common. This is because these treatment avenues are evidence-based and proven to help with successfully treating alcohol addiction.

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify underlying causes and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviours related to alcohol use, replacing them with healthier ones.
• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): DBT is another form of CBT, and it focuses on teaching acceptance, coping skills to manage stress, regulation of emotions, and improve relationships, which can help prevent relapse.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Involves medications that can help manage withdrawal symptoms and avoid relapse, often used in combination with other therapies when treating severe addiction.
• Family Involvement: family therapy may be included in the treatment process, helping to heal relationships and establish a supportive home environment.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment Options

When someone is getting help for drugs or alcohol addiction, and a mental health condition has also been identified, they will require a special kind of care called dual diagnosis treatment. This is quite common, and it’s okay. Many people who need help with drinking also need help with their mental health.

Sometimes, mental health conditions are harder to notice and don’t get diagnosed. Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that many people don’t get the help they need for their mental health. That’s why it’s essential to be open and honest with the professionals about how you’re feeling before entering a clinic, as they will be able to provide this level of specialised care in these circumstances.

In alcohol rehab, dual diagnosis treatment helps people who are dealing with mental health conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), along with their alcohol addiction.

By treating both the alcohol problem and the mental health condition together, it helps people get better and stay healthy.

Holistic Therapies and Integrative Approaches

Holistic approaches are typically also provided as treatment options at an alcohol rehab centre.

• Art Therapy: Art therapy provides a non-verbal way to express thoughts and emotions, which can promote healing and emotional insight.
• Music Therapy: Music therapy uses music to address emotional, cognitive, and social needs, helping individuals express themselves in a way that might be more comfortable for them.
• Mindfulness Sessions: These practices help improve mental and physical well-being, enhance self-awareness, and reduce stress, which is vital in recovery.
• Motivational Interviewing (MI): MI enhances an individual’s motivation to change by resolving feelings of uncertainty about entering treatment and stopping alcohol use.

 

What to Expect at an Alcohol Rehabilitation Clinic

It’s normal to feel a little apprehensive about what to expect from alcohol treatment. But please rest assured that you’ll be in an environment designed to help you recover from addiction.

When you first enter an alcohol rehab clinic, you’ll undergo an assessment with a specialist in addiction therapy to assess your needs and the severity of your alcohol addiction.

You’ll also need to answer questions about your mental health and any treatment you have undertaken for mental health conditions. This is so they can provide a comprehensive and personalised programme that meets your needs.

You will then be guided about how the medically assisted alcohol detox process works and what you can expect during your detox period. Once the detox stage has been completed, individuals then move on to personalised treatment plans.

Duration of Alcohol Treatment Programmes

The most recommended length of inpatient rehab treatment is a 28-day stay, or sometimes longer. We can also arrange 7 to 10-day programmes depending on your unique needs. A 10-day residential programme will involve the detox process only, along with accommodation and nutritional meals during this period.

For those who stay for 28 days or more, one year of free aftercare services is typically offered to help you maintain sobriety once you have completed alcohol treatment. It’s a significant benefit of choosing private alcohol rehab, as ongoing support and guidance are key to long-term recovery.

Rules and Guidelines in Rehab Facilities

At Action Rehab, we collaborate with a network of clinics registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) throughout the UK. Each facility provides a safe and supportive environment that encourages the recovery process for individuals struggling with addiction.

Although the core mission remains consistent, specific rules and guidelines can sometimes vary from one clinic to another.

Why Do Rules Vary?

• Tailored Therapeutic Approaches: Different rehab centres may specialise in various therapeutic methods, from cognitive behavioural therapy to holistic treatments.
• Diverse Needs: Facilities often adapt their rules to better cater to the distinct demographics they serve, such as age groups, gender-specific needs, or cultural considerations. This ensures a more personalised and practical treatment experience.
• Facility Resources and Amenities: The available resources and amenities at each facility can dictate specific guidelines. For example, a rehab centre with extensive outdoor spaces may have different policies about outdoor activities compared to a facility in a different setting.
• Feedback and Continuous Improvement: Rehab centres often update their guidelines based on input from past residents and ongoing research in addiction treatment.

 

Relapse Prevention: Aftercare and Continued Support Options

When you finish your time in alcohol rehab, it’s important to know that you’re not going to be on your own. Although it’s just the beginning of your recovery journey, you’ll still have a great deal of support to help you stay in recovery from active addiction. Here’s what you can expect:

Free Aftercare Programmes

• • What are they? These are ongoing programmes for those who complete a 28-day programme designed to help you after you leave alcohol rehab. They are provided on an outpatient basis.
  • Who offers them? Most of the CQC-registered rehab centres we work with offer these programmes at no extra cost.
  • How long do aftercare programmes last? Typically, a full year post-residential treatment.
  • What do they do? They provide local support and access to different therapies as well as addiction counsellors to help with stopping drinking.
  • Why do we have aftercare programmes? To prevent relapse. Alcohol cravings are going to feel tough, especially if you’re new to life in recovery. This is to ensure people have access to the proper support whenever they need it.

Continued Support Provided in Aftercare Programmes

• • Support Groups: You can typically join both groups provided by your clinic and local support groups (such as Alcoholics Anonymous), where people meet to talk about staying sober and support each other. You’ll also be put in contact with your local authorities, as there may be other forms of support options available depending on location.
  • Counselling Sessions: You can still see an addiction counsellor who will talk with you about your feelings and how to stay away from alcohol.
  • Check-Ins: Sometimes, the rehab centre will organise frequent check-ins with you to see how you’re doing and to offer help if you need it.

 

Support for Families of Those Affected by Alcohol Abuse

Watching a loved one struggle with alcohol addiction is incredibly tough, and it affects everyone in the family.

How Alcohol Addiction Impacts Families

Family members often experience a range of emotions. It’s hard to see someone you care about fight addiction and not know how to help or when things might get worse.

From a financial perspective, money that should be used for bills or savings may instead go towards alcohol. If drinking leads to missing work or losing a job, the financial problems only increase.

Trust within the family can also break down, especially if the person with the addiction has made and broken promises to quit or cut back. This can lead to more arguments and a tense home environment.

If there are children in the household, they might not show it, but they can often feel a lot of uncertainty and stress. They may feel worried, hopeless or ashamed of the situation or take on more responsibilities to help keep the family stable.

Support for Families With Action Rehab

Despite these challenges, there are ways to support each other, cope and move forward. Family programmes and counselling can be very helpful. They focus on fixing damaged relationships and building a supportive family environment.

At Action Rehab, we provide free resources and support for families dealing with a loved one’s alcohol addiction. Here’s how we can help:

• First Contact: Contact us to start finding help. We offer guidance on managing an alcohol intervention in a safe, calm way.
• Referral to an Alcohol Rehab: We can refer someone to rehab, but only if they agree to go.
• Ongoing Support: Whether you just need someone to talk to or advice on treatment routes, our team is here to support you. All you have to do is reach out to us for help.

 

How to Begin the Process of Rehabilitation from Alcohol Abuse

Deciding to go to rehab is a brave choice. It means you’re ready to work on getting better and living a healthy and fulfilling life.

Once you decide to seek help, the next step is to look into your options. We know this can feel overwhelming, and many of our team have been where you are right now. That’s why we offer a free service that does this for you, helping connect you to the most suitable alcohol rehab programmes.

The Admissions Process With Action Rehab

We provide an admissions process that’s free from any hassle, getting you where you need to go as soon as possible.

• Getting Started: When you reach out to our team here at Action Rehab, you’ll talk to someone who understands what you’re going through. They’ll help you figure out what kind of support you need. We also offer a free callback service if you prefer to talk at a specific time.
• Assessment and Consultation: You’ll have a talk with a professional to assess your needs. This helps them understand how they can best help you. They’ll ask about your health and anything else that might affect your treatment.
• Preparing for Entry: Once you’ve decided on the details of your programme, Action Rehab will help you get ready to start. This might include setting up travel plans, discussing what to bring, and preparing you for what to expect.

 

Reach Out to Action Rehab Today

If you’re ready to start your recovery journey, please get in touch with us directly today.

Many of our friendly team members are in recovery and have been in the same position as you. We provide a completely free, confidential service that is free from judgment.

Call us today for a FREE drug and alcohol rehab assessment with our addiction specialists, who can help you make the right choices to identify the ideal alcohol rehab programme for you.