Can you detox alone at home?

Answer 1

Alcohol withdrawal can be life threatening in some circumstances. Consequently, an alcohol dependence assessment is essential for your safety. The procedure aims to exclude those for whom the risk of performing an alcohol detox at home is too high. Some individuals require constant monitoring and even certain preventative medications.

Detox from alcohol at home is not a cure for Alcoholism. Detox merely allows a person with an alcohol problem to cease alcohol use safely and comfortably. After completion of a detox from alcohol at home, the person must start to learn the skills to avoid relapse to alcohol use. Learning these skills involves psychological treatment, which can be delivered either as an inpatient (rehab) or as an outpatient (counselling). Essentially, detox is about stopping alcohol use and alcohol rehab or alcohol counselling is all about ´staying stopped´.

The attendance of local Alcoholics Anonymous meetings is also advisable, and details of the nearest alcohol help meetings are provided. In some circumstances, additional help to prevent alcohol relapse can be provided by the prescription of specialist medications; these options will be explained by the alcohol detox nurse and for those who wish to receive such medication, a specialist alcohol doctor or nursing appointment is arranged.

Without direct support, the long-term chances for a successful cessation of alcohol dependency are extremely poor.

If you are stumbling to take the first steps, whether it be concerns about social awareness, or fear of the process, feel comfortable in contacting your local Alcoholics Anonymous chapter. You will be offered sincere, unbiased, and confidential support, without any judgement whatsoever.

It would appear you have bravely taken the first step towards your new life by acknowledging you have a dependency. Many have taken similar first steps, fewer have followed through, and many of those who have failed to take those steps, are now in cemeteries. Just as so many who will read your posted question are proud of you for taking this first step, I am as well! I'm sure we all wish you every success in your admirable determination for a new life!