If you or a loved one are suffering from alcohol abuse, you’re not alone! Research shows that binge drinking has increased significantly since the covid-19 pandemic started, thanks, in part, to the anxiety, stress, and isolation this situation has created. Unfortunately, many people are finding that the problem has become more than they can handle independently. If you’re considering alcohol rehabilitation, you probably have a lot of questions.
How does alcohol rehabilitation work? How to prepare for Alcohol Rehabilitation? What to expect at Avatar Alcohol Rehabilitation Center in NJ?
Don’t worry. We’ve gathered all the information you need to know about what to expect from an alcohol rehabilitation program and how to prepare yourself to check into a treatment facility. Once you’re done, you’ll be able to move forward with confidence.
What to Expect When Checking into an Alcohol Rehabilitation Center in NJ?
It’s completely normal to feel apprehensive about going to an alcohol abuse center. However, it’s truly not as intimidating as you might think. Here’s an overview of what you’ll experience when you arrive.
Check-In At Avatar Residential Detox
Most programs begin the minute you arrive at the facility. The check-in process usually begins with an intake interview or questionnaire. This is designed to help them learn more about the nature and extent of their alcohol use and any other co-occurring or underlying conditions that may exist.
It’s important to take this seriously and be as honest as possible. The information you provide will be used to customize your treatment based on your unique psychiatric and physical needs.
Detox & Withdrawal
Next, it’s time to detox from alcohol. For most people, this is the most physically difficult part of an alcohol abuse program. It will help physically stabilize you and prepare you for sobriety.
If you’re dependent on alcohol, then it’s likely that your alcohol detox will lead to withdrawal symptoms. This often includes physical symptoms like nausea, headaches, shakiness, irregular heartbeat, fever, sweating, or clamminess. You may also experience psychological symptoms like anxiety, depression, mood swings, insomnia, nightmares, agitation, and hallucinations.
Depending on the type of facility, you may receive a medically assisted detox, which can ease some of these symptoms.
Your detox symptoms’ length and severity will depend on several factors, including how much you drink and how often you drink. In many cases, symptoms stop within four to five days after you last consume alcohol.
Specialty & Group Therapy At Avatar Residential Detox
When you’re ready, you’ll move on to the next phase of your alcohol abuse rehabilitation. This will often include various therapies, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), family or marriage therapy, and group therapy sessions.
During this time, you’ll likely also be introduced to support groups that can help you maintain your sobriety after your treatment is over.
Education & Post-Treatment Preparation
Before you’re ready to leave the alcohol treatment center, you’ll need to learn coping mechanisms to help you transition from life inside rehab to the outside world. This includes strategies to help you avoid relapse and tools for dealing with triggering situations.
Aftercare Services
Your treatment doesn’t end after you leave the alcohol rehab facility. An effective program will offer aftercare services, such as regular check-ins with counselors that may occur in person or over the phone.
Many facilities also offer 24/7 phone support to help program graduates who are struggling.
How to Prepare for Stay in an Alcohol Abuse Clinic
So, you’ve decided to seek treatment for your alcohol addiction – what should you do before you go? While you shouldn’t let preparations serve as an excuse to put off going to rehab, there are a few things you can do to make things easier.
Handle Work & Family Obligations
It’s up to you to decide whether you want to disclose to your employer the fact that you’re going to rehab. However, you’ll need to let them know that you’ll need some time off work.
In some cases, it might be in your best interest to apply for protection under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). This will ensure that your job will be waiting for you when you return.
If you’re a caregiver for children, parents, or even your pets, now is also the time to arrange for someone to take care of them while you’re away. Knowing you have everything handled will ease your mind and make it easier to focus on your recovery.
Resolve Legal & Financial Issues
Make sure you pay any outstanding bills and set up automatic payments to cover bills that will come in while you’re away. If you have any legal issues going in, you’ll also want to connect with your attorney and, if necessary, notify the courts.
Even if your rehab is court-ordered or acknowledged, it’s still a good idea to have a paper trail if you run into any issues in the future.
Pack Only the Essentials
When you check into rehab, they’ll go through the things you’ve brought with you and won’t allow any “banned” items. To make things easier on yourself, double-check with the facility to find out what they do and don’t allow. Check out our list of “What to Bring to Rehab” so that you are better prepared for what items you will or won’t need. Then make sure you have all the essentials and leave everything else at home. Then make sure you have all the essentials and leave everything else at home.
Start a Self-Care Routine
Last but certainly not least, it’s a great idea to take some time to relax in the days leading up to your rehab stay. Try taking a walk, watching your favorite TV show, or relaxing in a hot bath. This will help get you in the habit of self-care and ease your mind as you prepare to embark on this life-changing journey.
Need Alcohol Rehabilitation? Get Help Today!
If alcohol is negatively impacting your life, it’s time to seek help! The alcohol rehabilitation program at Avatar Residential Detox Center offers quality treatment with home-like comfort and affordable prices. Voted one of the best alcohol rehab centers in NJ.
Don’t wait any longer. When looking for alcohol rehab centers near me, contact us using our convenient online form or call our 24/7 helpline at (973)-774-7222.
