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Alcohol withdrawal can be tough and, in some cases, dangerous. Getting through it alone is hard, but professional support makes the process safer and more comfortable.
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome happens when someone who regularly drinks heavily suddenly stops. The body struggles to adjust, leading to withdrawal symptoms. Alcohol abuse over time increases the possibility of having severe withdrawal symptoms.
The dangers of alcohol withdrawal can be serious, including seizures or delirium tremens (DTs). Because of this, quitting alcohol suddenly without medical help (also called ‘quitting cold turkey’) is risky. It’s essential to have professional detox support when stopping alcohol use.
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms range from mild to severe. The intensity depends on how much and how long a person has been drinking.
Mild symptoms of withdrawal typically begin within hours of having the last drink. They can be loosely divided into psychological and physical symptoms.
Psychological symptoms:
Physical symptoms:
Severe withdrawal symptoms may require medical attention. These symptoms can also be categorized as psychological or physical. In the most extreme cases, they may progress into delirium tremens, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention.
Psychological symptoms:
Physical symptoms:
Alcohol withdrawal delirium (delirium tremens):
The alcohol withdrawal timeline happens in stages, and each person’s experience is different. Knowing the stages of alcohol withdrawal can help people understand what to expect during the alcohol detox timeline. Some may have mild symptoms, while others might have stronger ones that need medical care. Here’s a simple guide to what happens during withdrawal:
6–12 hours after the last drink
Mild symptoms like headache, nausea, and anxiety start.
24–48 hours
Withdrawal symptoms get worse, including sweating, tremors, and confusion.
12–24 hours
Some may experience hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there).
48–72 hours
In severe cases, DTs can occur, leading to seizures and dangerous confusion.
The alcohol withdrawal timeline happens in stages, and each person’s experience is different. Knowing the stages of alcohol withdrawal can help people understand what to expect during the alcohol detox timeline. Some may have mild symptoms, while others might have stronger ones that need medical care. Here’s a simple guide to what happens during withdrawal:
6–12 hours after the last drink
Mild symptoms like headache, nausea, and anxiety start.
12–24 hours
Some may experience hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there).
24–48 hours
Withdrawal symptoms get worse, including sweating, tremors, and confusion.
48–72 hours
In severe cases, DTs can occur, leading to seizures and dangerous confusion.
Finding the right alcohol detox program depends on how severe the withdrawal symptoms are. For some, symptoms may be mild and manageable, while others may need medical support for alcohol withdrawal relief and to get through the process safely.
Rehab for alcohol addiction provides different levels of care to meet individual needs, from 24/7 medical supervision to flexible outpatient treatment. Often, 12-step programs are part of the treatment plan. They offer peer support and a structured path toward long-term sobriety.
Some alcohol rehabs offer medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for alcohol addiction. Certain alcohol withdrawal meds can ease symptoms and reduce cravings, making detox safer and more manageable. These medications include:
Overcoming alcohol addiction takes more than just inpatient alcohol detox—it requires ongoing care and support. At Granite Recovery Centers, we offer a range of treatment options designed to fit individual needs. We provide structured care to help you build healthy habits, address the root causes of addiction, and develop skills for long-term sobriety. Below are the different levels of care available at Granite Recovery Centers.
Supervised detox that helps ease withdrawal symptoms safely.
A 24/7 residential program with therapy and medical care.
For those with both addiction and mental health challenges.
A structured daytime program where people return home at night.
A flexible program offering therapy while maintaining work or family responsibilities.
A less intensive option for those with strong home support.
Granite Recovery Centers provides expert care at top detox centers designed for safe and comfortable recovery. Our alcohol rehab programs offer medical supervision, therapy, and long-term support to help individuals achieve lasting sobriety.
Located in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, Green Mountain Treatment Center offers scenic surroundings and individualized care.
In a smaller, more private setting, Canterbury Behavioral Health in NH offers detox and therapy with 24/7 medical support.
Recovery continues after rehab. Staying connected and having the right resources can make a big difference in long-term success. Our aftercare programs provide guidance, community, and practical tools to help individuals navigate life after treatment.
No matter where you are on your recovery journey, you don’t have to face it alone. If you or a loved one need support for alcohol detox, reach out today to explore the options that can help you stay on track.
Symptoms usually last 5–7 days, but mild effects like anxiety can persist longer.
Symptoms typically begin within 6–12 hours after the last drink.
Many insurance plans cover alcohol rehab. Contact us or your provider for details.
Encourage them to seek professional help and offer support without enabling their drinking.
Granite Recovery Centers has been transforming the lives of alcohol and drug dependent adults from New England and well beyond.
Granite Recovery Services does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, age, marital status or receipt of public assistance in the admission or access to or treatment in its programs or activities.
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