In today’s society, substance use disorders can often be cloaked in the shadows of denial, stigma, and misunderstanding. This makes it challenging for those affected to realize they may need help. Sometimes, it’s not until the situation becomes severe that the reality of the problem fully emerges. Yet, it is vital to understand that the earlier intervention occurs, the more successful recovery can be.

It’s important to understand the signs of substance use disorder and highlight the crucial indicators that professional help, such as our Ohio inpatient alcohol rehab or Ohio alcohol detox might help. Recognizing the signs of substance use disorder or disordered use of medication or alcohol can help to provide a path to understanding, acceptance, and ultimately, recovery.

10 Signs You May Have A Drug Addiction And need Drug and Alcohol Rehab

From physical and mental health changes to shifts in social behavior and responsibilities, several factors may signify a potential problem with drug abuse. The DSM-5 is a diagnostic manual that provides a guideline for diagnosing drug addiction. The criteria for drug addiction falls under four basic categories — impaired control, physical dependence, social problems and risky use: If you or a loved one is using more of a substance than intended or using it for longer than intended, these a signs you might need rehab. Trying to cut down or stop using the substance but being unable to you with the knowledge to discern these signs either in yourself or in your loved ones, acts as a critical first step in the journey towards overcoming substance use disorder. The road to recovery is not easy, but acknowledging the problem is the start of a courageous journey towards a healthier, substance-free life.

About 23.5 million Americans are addicted to drugs and alcohol. Unfortunately, only 11% ever receive treatment.

1. Reckless Behavior

About 10.2 million people drive under the influence of drugs. When you’re under the influence, you might think it’s safe to drive. Your capacity to think clearly could become diminished.

You could start behaving recklessly as a result. Unfortunately, your decisions could put yourself and others at risk.

If your fading inhibitions led you to take dangerous risks, consider seeking drug abuse help. Otherwise, you could make a life-threatening decision in the future.

Think about the decisions you’ve made recently. Has anyone pointed out that you’re threatening your life? Did someone get hurt as a result of your decisions?

Consider seeking help before someone dies as a result of your reckless behavior.

2. Your Friends

Your friends and family members might speak up if they’ve noticed you’ve changed recently. They might notice these signs you need drug rehab before you do. If a loved one has spoken up about your drug abuse, consider seeking help.

Don’t shrug off their concerns. After all, they’re worried about you. They’re only trying to help you see the potential consequences of your choices.

Drug abuse could lead you to isolate yourself. You might pick fights or push people away.

If you’ve noticed your drug use is having an impact on your relationships, ask yourself “Do I need drug rehab?”

Don’t let your drug use impact your relationships. The tools you learn during drug rehabilitation could help you mend those broken fences.

3. Diminished Health

Consider scheduling a visit with your doctor. They might help you recognize the impact drugs are having on your health. In fact, prolonged drug use could damage essential organs, including your:

• Heart
• Liver
• Brain

Your risk for heart failure, HIV, and hepatitis C can increase, too.

Take a look at yourself in the mirror. Do you recognize the person you see? If you’ve noticed changes to your health, it’s time to seek help.

Otherwise, your health will only continue to diminish. You might not realize the damage that’s occurring until it’s too late.

4. Withdrawal Symptoms

If you’ve ever tried quitting on your own, you could begin to experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms could include:

• Muscle aches
• Yawning often
• Inability to sleep
• Excessive sweating
• Lacrimation
• Anxiety
• Restlessness
• Runny nose

You could start experiencing these symptoms during the first 24 hours you stop using.

After the first day or two, your symptoms could get worse. You might experience:

• High blood pressure
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramping
• Goosebumps on the skin
• Vomiting and nausea
• Dilated pupils
• Blurry vision
• Rapid heartbeat

Your symptoms should improve between 72 hours and a week.

If you’ve experienced these symptoms between moments of drug use, it could mean you’ve developed a dependence. Seek drug rehabilitation right away.

5. Mental Health Issues

Prolonged drug use could impact your mental health, too. For example, it could augment a mental illness like depression. You might start harming yourself.

Some people experience suicidal thoughts as well.

If you’ve started experiencing mental health issues like anxiety or depression, don’t wait to seek help. Otherwise, you could hurt yourself.

Look for a program that offers dual diagnosis treatment. You can receive help for your depression and addiction at the same time.

Neither one has to control your life.

In fact, seeking help right away could improve your quality of life.

6. Legal Issues

Your risky behavior could lead to legal issues down the road. For example, you might get arrested for:

• Violence
• Possession of controlled substances
• A car accident

You might get arrested for stealing, buying drugs illegally, or other forms of reckless behavior, too. If you’ve recently found yourself in legal trouble, consider it a wake-up call.

Getting help before that happens can help you avoid problems in the future. Don’t wait until you’re in handcuffs. Instead, consider these signs you need drug rehab.

If these issues sound familiar, it’s time to check yourself in.

7. Neglected Responsibilities

Drug use can become obsessive. It could take over your life until it’s all you care about. You might start neglecting responsibilities as a result.

For example, you might skip work or school. You might avoid responsibilities like paying rent or taking care of your kids. If you’ve started neglecting your responsibilities, you could impact others.

It might impact your future as well.

Instead, seek help right away.

8. You’re Lying

You might start lying to the people around you as a result of your drug use. For example, you might avoid telling people where you’ve been. You might hide drugs in your home or start hanging out with new people.

You could believe you’re in control of your drug use.

If these situations sound familiar, consider visiting a rehabilitation center.

9. You Don’t Know How to Quit

Do you know what to do if you want to stop using drugs? Don’t try to quit cold turkey on your own.

Remember, you could experience serious withdrawal symptoms.

Instead, find a facility that can help you safely detox.

10. You Tried and Failed

If you’ve asked yourself, “Do I need drug rehab,” you might have tried to quit in the past. Unfortunately, quitting alone isn’t always easy. You might relapse as a result of your withdrawal symptoms.

Consider visiting an inpatient drug rehabilitation center. They can provide you with the resources you need to quit successfully.

FAQs about Signs You May Need Drug and Alcohol Rehab Or Have A Substance Use Disorder

What are the top signs that I may need drug and alcohol rehab?

Noticing behavioral changes, such as increased secrecy, withdrawal from social activities, or a sudden change in friends can be signs. Physical symptoms like a change in sleep patterns, sudden weight loss or gain, or noticeable lack of hygiene could also indicate a need for rehab.

How does my physical health indicate a potential substance use disorder?

Declining physical health can be an early sign of substance use disorder. This may manifest as frequent illness, lack of energy, changes in appetite, or sudden weight changes. Unexplained injuries can also be a sign.

Are changes in personality or mood signs of substance use disorder?

Yes, changes in personality or mood can be signs of substance use disorder. If you’re experiencing heightened irritability, anxiety, or depression, or if you notice these changes in a loved one, it could be indicative of an issue with drugs or alcohol.

Can problems at work or school signal the need for drug and alcohol rehab?

Yes, if substance use is causing trouble at work or school such as declining performance, tardiness, or absence, these can be signs of a substance use disorder that may require professional help.

Does a high tolerance to drugs or alcohol mean I need rehab?

Building a high tolerance to drugs or alcohol, meaning needing larger amounts to feel the same effects, can be an early sign of addiction. If you notice this, it might be time to consider seeking help.

How does my mental health indicate potential substance use disorder?

Substance use can often coincide with mental health disorders. If you’re experiencing increased feelings of depression, anxiety, or paranoia, or if you’re noticing an increase in these feelings when not using the substance, this could be a sign of substance use disorder.

Can withdrawal symptoms signal the need for drug and alcohol rehab?

Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit or reduce substance use can be a strong indicator of addiction. Symptoms can range from mild, such as restlessness or insomnia, to severe, such as hallucinations or seizures.

Does using drugs or alcohol to cope with stress indicate a problem?

Relying on drugs or alcohol to deal with stress, trauma, or emotional discomfort can be an early sign of substance use disorder. If this is happening, it’s important to seek help before it becomes a more serious issue.

Are changes in social behavior a sign of substance use disorder?

Changes in social behavior, such as withdrawal from friends and family, or associating with a new group of friends who use substances, can be early signs of substance use disorder.

Can neglecting responsibilities indicate the need for drug and alcohol rehab?

Yes, if drug or alcohol use is causing a person to neglect responsibilities at home, work, or school, it may be an indication that the substance use has become a problem and rehabilitation might be necessary.

Related Articles: Drug Rehab Guides

Start Your Road to Recovery For Drug And Alcohol Use Disorder

If these signs you need drug rehab sound familiar, don’t wait to seek help. The longer you wait, the more likely your health will deteriorate. Instead, consider signing up for drug rehabilitation right away.

You can develop a customized treatment plan with your goals and needs in mind.

You don’t have to go through this alone. We’re here to help.

Sources

1. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). (2022). “Signs of Substance Abuse.” https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/media-guide/science-drug-use-addiction-basics
2. American Psychological Association (APA). (2023). “Understanding Substance Use Disorders.” https://www.apa.org/topics/substance-use-abuse-addiction
3. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2023). “Recognizing the Signs of Substance Use Disorders.” https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disorders
4. World Health Organization (WHO). (2022). “Substance Abuse: Symptoms and Warning Signs.” https://www.who.int/health-topics/substance-abuse
5. Mayo Clinic. (2023). “Drug Addiction (Substance Use Disorder): Symptoms & Signs.” https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/drug-addiction/symptoms-causes/syc-20365112
6. National Health Service (NHS). (2023). “The Signs of Drug Addiction.” https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/drug-addiction-getting-help/
7. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). “Alcohol and Public Health: Alcohol-Related Disease Impact.” https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-use.htm
8. American Addiction Centers. (2022). “Early Warning Signs of Drug Use.” https://americanaddictioncenters.org/signs-of-drug-addiction
9. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). (2022). “Alcohol Use Disorder.” https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/alcohol-use-disorders

An ancient substance is making its way through the United States and is causing addiction, destruction, and even alleged deaths among unsuspecting users. The drug is called kratom, and it comes from a Southeast Asian plant, Mitragyna speciosa. This drug is still legal in most areas of the US, mainly because it is too new here for proper research and regulation. However, the government is working to learn more about the dangers of the substance and put laws in place that would protect citizens from the detrimental effects of this drug.

Ohio has experienced a drastic rise in the sale and use of kratom in the past two years, and state officials have been investigating the possibility of banning the dietary supplement. This has not occurred without dispute, however, and several advocacy groups claim the substance is harmless and instead provides needed health benefits.

History Of Kratom

Kratom was used in Thailand and surrounding countries for centuries, by farmers who chewed the leaves to increase their energy while working long hours, to treat medical conditions, numb pain, and to participate in religious ceremonies. When used in small amounts, it works as a stimulant and increases energy. When taken in large doses, kratom produces sedative effects like narcotics.

Many believe that kratom is not a safe substance, however. It was banned in Thailand in 1979 and in Malaysia in 2003 because of its risks to human health and behavior. But in recent years, it has been smuggled into America from Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries and is now being sold legally in many areas of our country. The lack of experience with and knowledge of this substance in Western countries makes it particularly dangerous, as most users first start taking it without fully knowing its potential.

Still A Legal Substance

This new drug is sold openly in many areas of the US. Kratom, also referred to as ‘ketum’ or ‘kakuam,’ is promoted as a natural painkiller and also an option for self-treating opioid addiction. Some people use it as a substitute to heroin or other opioid medications, but the problem is that kratom is addictive as well, and it is dangerous. The American kratom association plays a roll in putting out information regarding kratom and lobbying to make it legal and played a roll to make kratom legal in Ohio which has caused much controversy.

“It’s a fascinating drug, but we need to know a lot more about it,” said Dr. Edward W. Boyer, a professor of emergency medicine at the University of Massachusetts Medical School and a co-author of several scientific articles on kratom. “Recreationally or to self-treat opioid dependence, beware — potentially you’re at just as much risk as with an opiate.”

It’s true that kratom is legal in most cases in the United States. It is categorized by the FDA as a botanic dietary supplement. It is dispensed as leaves to chew or smoke, or sold as a pill, extract or gum, much of the time labeled “not for human consumption.” More commonly, kratom is brewed as a beverage. This tea is served at bars in Colorado, Ohio, New York, Florida, and across the country, often without the user fully knowing the drug’s potential for danger.

Kratom Statistics 2023

 

• An estimated 0.7% of individuals in the U.S. have used kratom in the past year.
• Adults under 50 years old are 2-3 times more likely to use kratom compared to adolescents.
• Women are less likely to use kratom than men.
• Compared to White individuals, Black and Hispanic individuals are less likely to use kratom.
• The use of kratom is associated with certain drug use behaviors. For instance, those with a past-year diagnosis of prescription opioid use disorder are more likely to use kratom. The same applies to those reporting past-year cannabis use, both with and without use disorder, and past-year cocaine use without disorder.
• The use of kratom is less common among individuals with no past-year drug use, including alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, methamphetamine, tranquilizers/sedatives, prescription stimulants, prescription opioids, and heroin.
• There is no significant correlation between kratom use and education level, annual family income, major depressive episode, serious mental illness, or past-year injection drug use.

Why It’s Concerning that Kratom is Legal In Ohio

One of the main concerns is that kratom is an addicting substance, causing users to experience cravings for it and withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the drug.

Kratom is a substance that can act like both a stimulant and an opioid. Its main compounds have the ability to interact with opioid receptors in the brain, sedating the individual, decreasing pain, and increasing pleasure. These compounds also have the potential to react with other brain receptors to produce stimulant effects. Usually, when taken in small amounts, the individual feels the stimulant effects. When taken in large doses, the user feels the sedative effects.

Side Effects of Kratom

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, reported health effects of kratom use include:
-Nausea
-Itching
-Sweating
-Dry mouth
-Constipation
-Loss of appetite
-Increased urination
-Insomnia
-Respiratory depression
-Weight loss
-Skin darkening
-Seizures
-Hallucinations
-Hepatitis
-Psychosis

Synonyms For Kratom

Other names for Kratom include:
-Biak
-Ketum
-Kakuam
-Ithang
-Thom

FDA Warnings About Kratom Use

• In a document stating information about kratom use and overdose, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that between 2010 and 2015, calls to poison centers associated with kratom use increased from 26 in 2010 to 263 in 2015, and more than 40% of the calls to the poison centers were serious or life-threatening cases.
• According to the Food and Drug Administration kratom use has been connected to at least 44 deaths.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began issuing a series of warnings about kratom in 2017. According to a press release last year:

“Over the past several years, a botanical substance known as kratom has raised significant concerns given its increasing prevalence and potential safety risks. Today, the agency issued a public health advisory related to the FDA’s mounting concerns regarding risks associated with the use of kratom.

The FDA knows people are using kratom to treat conditions like pain, anxiety, and depression, which are serious medical conditions that require proper diagnosis and oversight from a licensed health care provider. We also know that this substance is being actively marketed and distributed for these purposes. Importantly, evidence shows that kratom has similar effects to narcotics like opioids, and carries similar risks of abuse, addiction and in some cases, death. Thus, it’s not surprising that often kratom is taken recreationally by users for its euphoric effects. At a time when we have hit a critical point in the opioid epidemic, the increasing use of kratom as an alternative or adjunct to opioid use is extremely concerning.”

Is Kratom Addictive?

One of the main concerns is that kratom is an addicting substance, causing users to experience cravings for it and withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the drug. Withdrawal symptoms of kratom include:

• Muscle aches
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Hostility
• Aggression
• Emotional changes
• A runny nose
• Jerky movements

The fact that kratom itself is addicting is interesting because it is often marketed as a treatment option for withdrawal symptoms for opioids and other substances. According to the FDA, there is no evidence that kratom is effective in treating withdrawal symptoms, and in fact, the only thing it seems to do is replace one addictive substance with another. What is more, there are no known treatments for kratom addiction since this substance is so new in our culture.

“It’s very troubling to the FDA that patients believe they can use kratom to treat opioid withdrawal symptoms. The FDA is devoted to expanding the development and use of medical therapy to assist in the treatment of opioid use disorder. However, an important part of our commitment to this effort means making sure patients have access to treatments that are proven to be safe and effective. There is no reliable evidence to support the use of kratom as a treatment for opioid use disorder. Patients addicted to opioids are using kratom without dependable instructions for use and more importantly, without consultation with a licensed health care provider about the product’s dangers, potential side effects or interactions with other drugs.”

Kratom Advocates

However, not everyone believes the sale and use of kratom should be outlawed. Groups like the American Kratom Association have been promoting this substance and its health benefits for years. According to these consumer groups, this herbal alternative helps during treatment for opioid addiction, by reducing cravings for other drugs and alcohol, although there is no scientific research to back those claims up. Kratom is also said to help relieve chronic pain and mental health problems like depression.

According to the American Kratom Association website, “nearly 5 million Americans safely use kratom as a part of their health and well-being regimen and have done so for decades. Kratom is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a dietary ingredient/supplement, and people who use kratom do so for the same reasons as people who use dietary ingredients, supplements, and who drink coffee, tea, or other caffeinated beverages. Surveys show that kratom consumers are educated, middle-income, employed, and have health insurance – they are largely the soccer moms and dads of America.”

Advocates of kratom sale and use also claim that the main substances in kratom are impossible to overdose on. They state that nearly all of the reported deaths in 2016-2017 that were linked to kratom were not actually attributed to kratom alone, but to a combination of substances found in the individuals’ systems. Unfortunately, the role each substance plays in an overdose death is extremely difficult to determine, as substances react and interact with each other in different ways.

Legal Action Against Kratom

In the state of Ohio, kratom is being sold and used in many different areas, including bars, convenience stores, health stores, and gas stations. According to officials, it has caused problems including hallucinations, seizures, addiction, and overdose death. The Ohio Board of Pharmacy recently recommended that kratom is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance. This would put the substance in the same class as heroin, LSD, cocaine, and other illicit drugs. This recommendation follows on the heels of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration research, which has been considering similar measures, and dubs kratom as having a “high potential for abuse,” “no accepted medical use,” and lacking “accepted safety for use in treatment under medical supervision.”

Several other states and large cities have gone through with the kratom ban, including Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Florida and New Jersey have proposed and then set aside similar bills until more is known about kratom’s health risks. Kratom use among soldiers is also forbidden by the army, and the FDA banned the import of this drug. The Drug Enforcement Administration has listed kratom as a “drug of concern” but not a controlled substance. Other areas of the county have not yet seen high incidences of the use of this drug, and many are waiting to see what further research shows and what other states do.

The Ohio Board of Pharmacy did not make their recommendation without a great deal of research and input by others. The board received and reviewed more than 6,000 emails about the proposed reclassification the past few months. One of the main concerns the board wanted to address was how buyers would know the content of the substance they were using since the drug is in essence unregulated. The substance becomes more dangerous and even deadly when combined with other drugs. “The bottom line is that there are some good, positive properties to it, but it’s pretty dangerous for society, in general, the way people use drugs,” said Brad Lander, clinical director of addiction medicine at Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center. “A lot of people probably could use it safely without a problem, but there are going to be a lot of people who are going to have a problem with it.”

The FDA recently took action against kratom products being imported into the US, by seizing hundreds of shipments of the substance and warning consumers about the dangers of this product. “In response to a request from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the FDA has conducted a comprehensive scientific and medical evaluation of two compounds found in kratom. Kratom is already a controlled substance in 16 countries, including two of its native countries of origin, Thailand and Malaysia, as well as Australia, Sweden, and Germany.”

Residents of Ohio will soon know what the future holds for kratom sellers. The ban will be revisited in upcoming sessions in 2019. Until then, individuals are being warned to learn the facts and to be careful about what they ingest, including substances labeled as supplements.

Be Careful Of New Substances

Our country has seen this same problem many times before. New drugs are constantly emerging, either being imported to the United States from other countries or being synthesized right here in our communities. Sometimes, as with kratom, the substance is naturally found in nature, which gives people a false sense of security. Unfortunately, not every natural substance is safe, and consumers need to be careful about what they use, where it comes from, and what it is mixed with. This is particularly true about products that are not regulated by the FDA, are called supplements, or are labeled as not for human consumption when they were clearly meant to be consumed.

It is important for parents to be aware of new drug trends so they can have conversations with their teens about the dangers of trying these substances. In general, any substance that is supposed to help someone feel good or experience a feeling of euphoria, even if it is legal, should be treated with caution. As in the case of kratom, countries that have witnessed the effects of this drug in the past have banned the substance, and possibly the only reason it is still legal in the United States is we simply don’t know enough about it.

Drug addiction is a serious disease, and prevention is important. Parents, schools, and community groups can all work together to educate the public about the dangers of new drug trends. For those already struggling with addiction, the best way to achieve sobriety is to enroll in a trusted treatment program, either a residential or outpatient rehab.

Is Kratom Legal In Ohio?

In August 2019 after receiving nearly 7,000 comments The Ohio Board of Pharmacy decided to put off naming Kratom as a schedule 1 substance – the same category as LSD and Heroin. For the time being Kratom remains legal in Ohio.

Can I Quit Drinking Safely?

Some people drink a lot. They often ask can I quit drinking safely? Some people decide they should quit drinking, as they understand that excessive drinking is not healthy. For people who drink to excess, one of the most difficult things to do is to make the decision to quit.

However, before someone decides to just quit drinking, it is important for them to understand that for some people, this can be dangerous, even life-threatening.

How Do You Know if it’s Safe to Just Quit Drinking Alcohol?

Well, it depends.

Most people that drink too much are not physically dependent upon alcohol. Alcohol-dependent individuals must drink every day. When they stop drinking for even one day, they suffer symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.

Common Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal

• hand tremors
• anxiety
• sweating
• nervousness
• a racing heart
• body twitches
• seizures

What Are The Risks Of Stopping Drinking Cold Turkey?

Sometimes, symptoms of alcohol withdrawal escalate, leading to “DTs”, or delirium tremens, a life-threatening syndrome that can cause cardiovascular and respiratory failure. Other symptoms of DTs might include confusion, fever, and hallucinations.

In addition, someone who stops drinking abruptly can also suffer seizures, with or without DTs.

If a person is able to stop drinking for 24 hours and they have no withdrawal symptoms such as hand tremors, feeling a lot of anxiety, sweating, nervousness, a racing heart, and body twitches, generally there is no danger of continuing not to drink and medical care with medication is not required.

However, if a person experiences the above-mentioned withdrawal symptoms while they are actively cutting down on their drinking, or within 24 hours of quitting drinking, then it is important to seek medical attention.

How To Determine If You Are At A High-Risk Level For Alcohol Withdrawal?

People at high risk of medical complications coming off alcohol are:

1. Those that have a history of DTs.
2. Those with a history of seizures.
3. Those people with a history of chronic, heavy, daily drinking (usually for weeks or months without a day off).
4. Those that have to drink to start the day because of hand tremors or feeling ill.

It is difficult to quantify if there is a specific amount of alcohol consumed that places someone at risk for alcohol withdrawal syndrome and/ or DTs.

While some people can drink large amounts (say a case of beer a day), not everyone who drinks this much has alcohol withdrawal since the ability to withstand alcohol’s physical effects can vary from person to person.

As a general rule (no medical studies to confirm), if a person drinks 13 standard drinks a day for a month, then they have about a 50% chance of having major life-threatening withdrawals.

In instances where a person develops alcohol withdrawal, it is recommended that the person seeks medical attention to assess and advise treatment. Alcohol withdrawal can be lethal. When alcohol withdrawal is medically managed, however, the fatality rate is extremely low.

When we assess a patient with alcohol withdrawal, we check vital signs, a breathalyzer, obtain a brief history and physical and do an assessment called a “CIWA-Ar”, or Clinical Assessment for Alcohol Withdrawal, Revised. This 5-10 step assessment is simple and can predict if someone is at risk for a mild, moderate, or severe alcohol withdrawal syndrome.

When we identify a patient with alcohol withdrawal symptoms, we determine the severity of the withdrawal risk and then place the patient in a level of care appropriate for that particular patient. Most of the time, a patient can be treated with medication as an outpatient; rarely, the patient requires hospitalization.

FAQs About Quitting Alcohol

What happens when you stop drinking alcohol?

When you stop drinking, your body undergoes a detoxification process, which can lead to physical and emotional changes. These may include improved sleep, better digestion, weight loss, and increased energy levels. However, withdrawal symptoms may also occur, such as irritability, anxiety, and alcohol cravings.

How long after quitting alcohol can I expect to see improvements in my health?

Health improvements may begin as soon as a few hours after quitting alcohol, but noticeable changes typically occur within weeks to months. For example, blood pressure can start to normalize within a few days, while liver function may improve after a month of abstinence.

What can I expect after 3 months of no alcohol?

After 3 months without alcohol, you may experience better mental clarity, improved liver function, and reduced inflammation. You may also notice weight loss and a decrease in alcohol cravings.

What changes can I expect after 6 days of no alcohol?

After 6 days without alcohol, you may notice improved sleep quality, increased energy, and a decrease in blood pressure. You may also experience some physical withdrawal symptoms as your body detoxifies.

How can I wean off alcohol safely?

To wean off alcohol safely, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional, who can help you develop a personalized plan. Gradually reducing your alcohol intake over time can help minimize withdrawal symptoms and prevent severe alcohol withdrawal.

Can I quit drinking on my own?

While it is possible to quit drinking on your own, it is essential to consider your individual circumstances and the severity of your addiction. In some cases, professional help may be necessary, especially if you experience severe withdrawal symptoms.

What are the benefits of 10 days without alcohol?

After 10 days of no alcohol, you may experience improved sleep, increased energy levels, better digestion, and a decrease in blood pressure. Your liver function may also begin to improve.

What are some severe withdrawal symptoms I should be aware of?

Severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms can include delirium tremens, hallucinations, seizures, and extreme agitation. If you experience these or other severe symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical help immediately.

How does quitting alcohol affect blood pressure?

Quitting alcohol can help lower blood pressure in many individuals. Alcohol can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure, so abstaining can lead to a decrease in blood pressure levels over time.

What are some common physical withdrawal symptoms from alcohol?

Physical alcohol withdrawal symptoms can include shaking, sweating, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and an increased heart rate. In severe cases, withdrawal symptoms may include seizures and hallucinations.

How can I manage alcohol cravings during withdrawal?

Managing alcohol cravings during withdrawal can involve a combination of strategies, such as distraction techniques, medication, support from friends and family, engaging in healthy activities, and seeking professional help if necessary.

What specific strategies can be used to cope with the psychological challenges of quitting alcohol, such as dealing with triggers and social pressures?

Overcoming psychological challenges when quitting alcohol relies on identifying triggers, employing mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral strategies, and leveraging a strong support network and professional therapy to navigate cravings, emotional responses, and social pressures effectively.

Are there any alternative therapies or support systems, aside from medical intervention and support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous, that can aid in the recovery process?

Final thoughts On Quitting Alcohol Consumption Abruptly

If you have an alcohol use disorder and wish to stop drinking, it’s a commendable step in the right direction. Integrating behavioral healthcare with the detoxification process can increase the chances of successful, long-term sobriety, as it addresses the roots of alcohol addiction and equips individuals with strategies to maintain their new lifestyle. It’s not just about “quitting alcohol”; it’s about constructing a new, healthier context for one’s life.

When you decide to stop drinking alcohol, your body experiences a series of changes that can occur over different time frames, ranging from the first 24 hours sober to 8 months or longer without alcohol. This process is often referred to as alcohol withdrawal, and it can involve both physical and psychological symptoms. Here is a general timeline:

1. 24 hours sober: Within the first 24 hours of being sober, you might start to experience withdrawal symptoms. These can include anxiety, insomnia, nausea, or abdominal pain. While this might be a difficult time, these initial symptoms are usually the body’s way of adjusting to the absence of alcohol.
2. 8 days no alcohol: After a week or so of no drinking, physical symptoms might start to subside, but psychological symptoms like mood swings and cravings might still persist. However, it’s important to note that these experiences can vary greatly from person to person. Some may see improvements in high blood pressure, sleep patterns, and general physical health.
3. 24 days sober from alcohol: After three weeks to a month of not drinking, your body continues to heal. Liver function begins to improve, energy levels might increase, and you could also experience a clearer complexion as the body detoxifies. Psychological symptoms, such as anxiety or depression, might start to lessen, although occasional cravings may still be present.
4. 8 months no alcohol: With prolonged abstinence, the changes become even more significant. There’s often a noticeable improvement in overall mental health, with fewer mood swings and lower levels of anxiety or depression. Many individuals report a drastic improvement in their quality of life. Prolonged abstinence can also help manage high blood pressure, as chronic alcohol abuse is a known risk factor for developing hypertension.

While this timeline might make the process seem straightforward, it’s important to remember that quitting drinking, especially for those with a heavy or prolonged use history, should ideally be done under medical supervision due to the risk of severe withdrawal symptoms, like delirium tremens (DTs), which can be life-threatening.

For those asking “how to quit drinking without rehab” or “how to stop drinking beer everyday”, it’s recommended to seek support through methods such as counseling, support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous, or through medical professionals who can provide guidance and resources. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. Lifestyle changes, such as developing new hobbies, maintaining a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise, can also be beneficial.

The journey to sobriety is personal and unique to each individual, but the health benefits that come with quitting drinking are undeniable. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making major changes to your alcohol consumption. The Ridge Ohio specializes in alcohol rehab and inpatient care facility; we are always happy to help and answer any questions that you may have.

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References:

1. HAMS: Harm Reduction for Alcohol -The Odds Of Going Through Alcohol Withdrawal https://hams.cc/odds/ Information Collected 2/1/2023
2. CIWA-Ar for Alcohol Withdrawal
   
   The CIWA-Ar objectifies severity of alcohol withdrawal.. Edward M. Sellers https://www.mdcalc.com/ciwa-ar-alcohol-withdrawal Information Collected 2/1/2023
3. Sullivan JT, Sykora K, Schneiderman J, Naranjo CA, Sellers EM. Assessment of alcohol withdrawal: the revised clinical institute withdrawal assessment for alcohol scale (CIWA-Ar). Br J Addict. 1989 Nov;84(11):1353-7. PubMed PMID: 2597811.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2597811/