To end an addiction to alcohol, you will have to go through withdrawal. Sadly, many individuals are so worried about what alcohol withdrawal will be like that they choose not to get sober at all—having a better understanding of what to expect can encourage those struggling with alcoholism to seek help and begin the journey to recovery. Contact Crestview Recovery by calling 866.262.0531 to speak with a professional about detoxing from alcohol at a residential detox center.

What is The Goal of Alcohol Detox?

Before discussing the details of a typical withdrawal from alcohol, it’s important to understand the goals of medical detox. The withdrawal phase is when the body learns to adjust to daily life without having alcohol in the system. The goals of detox are to break the chemical ties to alcohol and to get over the worst of symptoms before beginning treatment.

In as little as a week, individuals who were physically dependent on alcohol can begin to function normally without it. Although withdrawal may be unpleasant, this step is a necessary beginning to treatment. Ending all alcohol consumption in a controlled, safe environment means that patients can start to live their lives without relying on addictive substances.

Another goal during the formal withdrawal period in a detox or treatment facility is to help patients get over the worst of their symptoms before further treatment begins. This is key because it’s impossible to reap the benefits of drug and alcohol addiction treatment if you’re simultaneously battling withdrawal symptoms. Once withdrawal ends, patients are generally more open and ready to tackle the root causes of alcoholism and how to prevent relapse.

Your Addiction Treatment Plan

Alcohol addiction treatment programs are about more than just the process of detox. Once withdrawal ends, the real work begins. Tackling addiction and embracing sobriety for a lifetime requires a variety of therapy approaches.

En route to recovery, some or all of the following options may be a part of an ongoing treatment plan:

Physical Withdrawal Symptoms to Expect

The physical symptoms of withdrawal are perhaps the biggest concern for prospective rehab patients. While it’s true that alcohol withdrawal can be unpleasant, keep in mind that there are resources, medications, and help that medical professionals can offer.

Physical symptoms of withdrawal typically start about eight hours after the last drink of alcohol. These symptoms might start with mild nausea and abdominal pain. Between two to three days into the detox, physical symptoms often reach their peak. During this stage, it’s normal for patients to have an unusually high heart rate, struggle with temperature fluctuations, or to sweat profusely.

Psychological Withdrawal Symptoms to Expect

In addition to physical symptoms, alcohol withdrawal can cause psychological and emotional symptoms. Patients who have a mental illness diagnosis might find that their conditions get worse during withdrawal. Even those without mental health problems might encounter some issues developing during the week or so of withdrawal.

Some of the psychological symptoms that can occur during a withdrawal from alcohol include:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Paranoia
  • Suicidal thoughts

Typical Duration of a Withdrawal From Alcohol

Alcohol withdrawal treatment often lasts about a week, but that can vary depending on each patient’s specific needs. The severity of an individual’s addiction and how long he or she has been drinking can extend the withdrawal period. Overall, withdrawal tends to peak at about 72 hours after the last drink of alcohol. From there, symptoms recede, and most patients get through withdrawal completely within eight days.

Contact Crestview Recovery Today

Alcohol addiction doesn’t have to control your life for one more day. Call 866.262.0531 to learn more about Crestview Recovery and start planning your journey to health, happiness, and sustainable recovery.


crest view recovery center portland oregon addiction treatment center programs drug and alcohol rehab center portland orCrestview Recovery Center is a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center with the experience to help you recover. Our entire staff is dedicated to giving you the care that you need to begin regaining control over your life and start the healing process. Moreover, our caring and understanding staff members are among the most experienced in the field. We believe in a holistic approach to recovery, rather than just using evidence-based methods here.