Table of Contents:
- What is Alcohol Rehabs?
- Alcohol Addiction
- Why going to an alcohol rehab clinic is important
- Alcohol Detox
- Alcohol Addiction FAQ's
This page has been reviewed by Lester Morse, Director of Rehabs UK.
What is Alcohol Rehab?
Alcoholism invariably involves more than just consuming alcohol. While someone can appear to function normally, it doesn’t mean that they don’t have a problem. If their life is being adversely affected and they're unable to reduce or stop drinking on their own, it’s time to address the issue and seek help. It can be challenging to approach someone who suffers from alcohol addiction so its worth speaking to one of our Treatment Advisors for tips on alcohol intervention.
From consuming alcohol to cope with stress or self-medicating to mask mental health problems or trauma, residential rehab provides the opportunity to address the root of the pain that’s encouraging the individual to drink. An alcohol clinic setting boasts qualified and approachable staff trained to deal with alcohol addiction. From medical monitoring throughout the detox and withdrawal process to consistent, round-the-clock care, rehab allows space away from everyday life and creates an environment that focuses on recovery. Invariably, offering a two-pronged approach to treatment, rehab deals with both the physical aspect of addiction and the mindset towards alcohol.
Many people question if rehab works and how effective it is when treating alcohol addiction. Measuring success in alcohol rehabilitation is a multifaceted process that involves considering a range of factors, such as sustained sobriety, improvements in physical and mental health, and the ability to rebuild relationships and daily functioning, rather than reducing it to a simple yes-or-no outcome.
Alcohol is addictive primarily due to its powerful effects on the brain’s reward system. When consumed, alcohol increases the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This creates feelings of euphoria and relaxation, reinforcing the desire to drink. Over time, the brain begins to associate alcohol consumption with positive feelings, making it difficult to resist the urge to drink. Additionally, alcohol alters the balance of neurotransmitters like GABA and glutamate, leading to calming effects and reducing anxiety. However, with repeated use, the brain adapts by becoming less sensitive to alcohol, requiring more of it to achieve the same effects—this is known as tolerance. As tolerance builds, physical dependence can develop, where the brain relies on alcohol to function normally, making quitting difficult due to withdrawal symptoms.
Genetic and psychological factors also play a significant role in alcohol addiction. Individuals with a family history of alcohol addiction may be more genetically predisposed to developing it themselves. Psychologically, alcohol can become a coping mechanism for dealing with stress, anxiety, or trauma, leading to habitual use. Social and environmental influences, such as peer pressure and the normalisation of drinking, further contribute to the risk of addiction. Together, these factors create a cycle where the pleasurable effects of alcohol, combined with increasing tolerance and dependence, make it highly addictive.
What are the causes of Alcohol Addiction?
Alcoholism is the result of a combination of different factors; some of which may be beyond your control. Factors such as economic hardship, limited access to healthcare, and social deprivation all contribute significantly to alcohol-related harm.
According to the World Health Organisation - Worldwide, around 2.6 million deaths were caused by alcohol consumption in 2019. Of these, 1.6 million deaths were from noncommunicable diseases, 700 000 deaths from injuries and 300 000 deaths from communicable diseases.
Genetic factors
Some people are able to limit the amount of alcohol they consume, while others feel a strong impulse to keep going. Alcohol induces feelings of pleasure which trigger the brain’s reward centre and encourage repetition of the behaviour.
Neuroscience has shown that people have varying levels of ability and brain function to control impulsive urges. If these genes are passed down through generations, family members are more prone to developing drinking problems.
Mental health
Everyone deals with certain situations in their own unique way. However, different psychological factors can increase the chances of drinking heavily. Alcohol is often used to suppress feelings and relieve the symptoms of a range of mental health issues. From depression to anxiety, the more a person turns to alcohol to ease emotional pain or trauma, the more their body becomes tolerant to it and relies on its effects. Over time, self-medicating with alcohol can become habitual and can co-occur with a mental health disorder.
Environment
Spending time around people who drink heavily or abuse alcohol can influence our personal behaviour. Family plays a big part in the likelihood of someone developing an alcohol addiction. Children who are exposed to alcohol abuse at a young age are more at risk of developing patterns of problem drinking.
Some people turn to alcohol to relieve stress. Work culture or a demanding job can contribute to increased alcohol consumption. Peer pressure and sober shaming can also cause someone to participate in activities in which they wouldn’t normally partake.
What Are The Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction?
Unlike illicit substances, alcohol is widely available and accepted. Often central to social situations and celebrations, drinking is a part of life for many people. It can often be difficult to tell the difference between someone who likes to have a few drinks and a person with a genuine problem.
Healthline states: "Alcohol can cause both short-term effects, such as lowered inhibitions, and long-term effects, including a weakened immune system."
Addictions tend to get worse over time. If identified and treated early, it may be possible to avoid the major consequences of the disease. Spotting the early warning signs is crucial.
Physical Symptoms
Increased lethargy, depression or other emotional difficulties.
A high tolerance for alcohol coupled with an increased quantity and frequency of use.
Exhibiting signs of irritability and mood swings.
Experiencing temporary blackouts or short-term memory loss.
Behavioural Symptoms
Friendship changes; someone with an alcohol problem may choose to surround themselves with others who also drink heavily.
Avoiding contact with loved ones.
Hiding alcohol or disguising drinking.
Wanting to be in situations where alcohol is readily available and avoiding those where it isn’t.
Professional or legal problems; someone may encounter conflict at work or potentially job loss. Similarly, engaging in risky behaviour as a consequence of alcohol consumption could lead to an arrest.
If any of these sound familiar contact one of our fully trained Treatment Advisors for a free assessment.
What are the treatments for Alcohol Addiction?
here are a variety of dangers of alcohol withdrawal and the individual involved may suffer from post acute withdrawal syndrome if the substance is removed without guidance. The recovery process for an alcoholic is a lifetime commitment. For treatment to work, the person with an alcohol addiction must want to get sober. Treating alcohol addiction can be complex and challenging. For those who are dependant, a medical detox is necessary and this can either be done via an alcohol home detox depending on suitability or in a residential rehab. There are a variety of treatments that can be accessed such as individual therapy, group therapy and peer support which can be incremental in helping prevent relapse. There is no one-size-fits-all solution that's why it is important to speak to one of our Treatment Advisors for a free assessment and explore all the treatments and therapies that are available.
What is the right treatment to choose? from the approach to treatment to available therapies, it’s important to consider options when looking for a suitable facility or outpatient programme. Contact our team who can answer any questions. If a centre only offers one or two types of therapy, it may not be able to customise its care to suit the individual. Finding out whether a facility is able to treat mental health problems may also be important. Many issues co-occur alongside addiction and will require complementary treatment. From medical support to the quality of care, understanding what’s available and what’s expected are all important considerations. Ultimately, it’s not a case of finding the best rehab facility but rather the best one for you or your loved one. If you or a loved one are under 18 years old, then learn about rehabilitation for under 18's here. We also offer information around the costs of and funding your rehabilitation. NHS treatment for alcohol NHS treatment for alcohol addiction is available in the UK, but waiting lists can be lengthy and funding has been significantly cut. The demand for NHS services can also place a significant strain on resources, making it challenging to access the help and support needed promptly. Private rehab A private rehab is an alternative option that can provide more immediate access to treatment and support. At Rehabs UK, we can provide advice and guidance on the best options for you. There are several funding options available as so if you would like to speak with a treatment advisor they will be more than happy to talk you through the process.
The prospect of entering a rehab centre can be intimidating. However, if an individual is suffering from alcohol use disorder, getting help is crucial. It’s important to realise that ultimately rehab is a positive experience and committing to treatment is a progressive step towards improving their life.
Individual therapy and group therapy in a residential rehab setting provides a safe space for the person involved to take an honest look at themselves, their addiction, and its effects on their behaviour and mental health. Although, this may be uncomfortable at times, therapy provides a powerful way to assist the healing process.
Rehab provides the opportunity to tackle the problem holistically and develop coping mechanisms to safeguard sobriety. The rehab environment removes the individual involved from their ordinary existence and allows them to focus on getting better.
Working a programme for a period of time in a specialised environment with support from people who are also in recovery can promote changes in long-term behaviour and prevent relapse.
Do you or your loved one have a drinking problem?
There may be an increase in tolerance and due to this the craving and consumption of booze to get the same buzz may have grown. Over time, the brain adapts to alcohol and becomes less sensitive to its effects. Alcohol can cause a variety of sleep problems from insomnia to impacting natural sleep and these can be a sign of dependency.
Further to this drinking alcohol may have started to change the individuals behaviour and edge out into activities that they used to enjoy. It may even prevent the individual from keeping up with responsibilities at home, work or school and they may appear as completely unmanageable.
In the combined datasets of the 2012/13 and 2013/14 CSEW, 70% of violent incidents occurring at the weekend, and 70% of violent incidents occurring in the evening or night, were alcohol-related.
70% of violent incidents which took place in a public space were alcohol-related compared with 40% of incidents that occurred in the home and 43% of incidents that happened in and around the workplace
Tension in relationships may also have grown and the individual involved may be engaging in risky behaviour which may be really difficult to understand for those around them. It may have even caused arguments confrontation and threats of relationships ending but they still continue to drink.
When the effects of alcohol wear off, they may experience a range of withdrawal symptoms. Alcohol changes brain chemistry and long term use can increase the likelihood of conditions such as wet brain (Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome) and depression. When someone drinks over a long period of time, the brain tries to adapt. If that person then stops drinking, the brain has to readjust the chemical imbalance, thereby, creating uncomfortable physical and emotional sensations.
Alcohol consumption can cause a variety of health conditions such as kidney damage, high blood pressure, headaches/ migraines and stomach problems.
If you are concerned about a loved one you may wonder how to spot the signs of alcoholism?
Speak to one of our fully trained Treatment Advisors today for advice and support.
How much does alcohol rehab cost?
When considering the cost of alcohol rehab, it's essential to assess all the options that are available. Rehab can be life-changing and provide a foundation for long-term recovery so can be worth the investment.
According to government statistics, 110,095 people exited the drug and alcohol treatment system in 2020 to 2021. Half (50%) of those left having successfully completed their treatment, free from dependence. It is worth noting that this data is not broken down into treatments, nor do we know how long the treatment was. However, our treatment specialists have decades of experience and we’ve seen first-hand that while there are many factors at play, rehabilitation increases someone's chances of overcoming an addiction.
How long does alcohol rehab take?
The length of a rehab course for alcohol can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of addiction, type of rehab, and individual progress. The average residential rehab programme lasts around 28 to 30 days, but some can last up to 90 days or more. Outpatient programmes can last several months or longer, depending on the level of care needed.
It is important to know the dangers of detoxing from alcohol alone, by having the support you can ensure you or your loved one are in the best environment for detox.
Why is alcohol addiction dangerous?
Alcohol addiction is dangerous because it leads to severe physical health issues like liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and neurological damage, while also impairing mental health, causing conditions such as depression and anxiety. It disrupts social and professional lives, leading to strained relationships, job loss, and legal troubles. Additionally, it creates physical dependence and tolerance, increasing the risk of overdose and dangerous withdrawal symptoms. The overall impact significantly reduces quality of life and life expectancy, making it a critical issue that requires comprehensive treatment and support.
When should I or a loved one go to rehab for alcohol addiction?
You may be wondering whether yours or your loved ones drinking has become out of control. If any of the following warning signs seem familiar, it may be time to make some changes.
There may be occasions when the individual ended up drinking more than they thought they would or for longer than they'd planned. Keep an eye on the amount of time you or your loved one spends drinking. This isn’t just the time spent consuming alcohol, but also the amount of time it takes to recover.
What is the difference between inpatient and outpatient alcohol rehab?
Inpatient and outpatient alcohol rehab differ mainly in their setting, intensity, and structure. Inpatient rehab requires patients to live at the treatment facility, providing 24/7 care, a structured environment, and intensive therapy, which is ideal for severe addictions or those needing a controlled setting. Conversely, outpatient rehab allows patients to live at home while attending scheduled sessions at a treatment centre, offering more flexibility to maintain work, school, or family commitments. Outpatient programmes vary in intensity and are suitable for those with milder addictions or strong external support systems, but they do expose patients to potential triggers in their everyday environment.
What happens during alcohol rehab?
During alcohol rehab, patients undergo a comprehensive treatment process aimed at achieving and maintaining sobriety.
First our fully trained Treatment Advisors will do a free assessment to evaluate what the correct treatment programme is for you or your loved one. This then typically is followed up with a medically supervised detoxification to manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
Following detox, patients participate in various therapies, including individual counselling, group therapy, and family support groups, which help address the psychological aspects of addiction.
Education about addiction, coping strategies, and relapse prevention is provided to empower patients with the skills needed for long-term recovery. Additionally, patients often engage in holistic activities such as exercise, meditation, and nutrition planning to support overall well-being. Throughout the rehab process, continuous support from healthcare professionals and peers is key to fostering a supportive and encouraging environment.
What is the first stage of alcoholism?
The first stage of alcoholism is often referred to as the pre-alcoholic stage or early stage. In this stage:
- Drinking may start as a way to relax, cope with stress, or deal with social situations.
- There is no noticeable loss of control, but patterns of regular drinking may develop.
- Tolerance begins to build, meaning it takes more alcohol to achieve the same effects.
Is it normal to drink every day?
Drinking alcohol daily is not necessarily "normal," and it depends on the amount consumed:
- For many, occasional moderate drinking (e.g., one drink per day for women, two for men) may not cause harm.
- However, daily drinking can be a sign of dependency or alcohol use disorder, especially if it becomes a compulsion or negatively impacts health, relationships, or responsibilities.
How do I know if someone is struggling with alcohol addiction?
Signs of alcohol addiction include:
- Drinking more or for longer than intended.
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop.
- Neglecting responsibilities or activities due to drinking.
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms (e.g., shakiness, sweating, nausea) when not drinking.
- Continuing to drink despite knowing it causes harm to physical or mental health, relationships, or work.
Why is it so hard to quit drinking?
Quitting drinking is challenging for several reasons:
- Physical dependency: Alcohol alters brain chemistry, leading to cravings and withdrawal symptoms when consumption stops.
- Psychological factors: Many drink to cope with stress, trauma, or emotions, making alcohol a perceived crutch.
- Social factors: Drinking is often normalised or expected in social situations, making abstinence difficult.
- Habitual patterns: Drinking becomes ingrained as a routine or reward system.
What is the best way to overcome alcoholism?
Overcoming alcoholism involves a combination of approaches:
Professional help:
- Consulting a doctor or addiction specialist.
- Attending therapy or counselling (e.g., cognitive-behavioural therapy).
- Medications like naltrexone or disulfiram may be prescribed.
Support groups:
Joining groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or SMART Recovery for peer support Behavioural changes:
- Identifying triggers and finding healthier coping mechanisms.
- Building new routines and avoiding environments that encourage drinking.
Holistic care:
- Focusing on overall wellness, including proper nutrition, exercise, and stress management.
Family and community support:
- Engaging loved ones for encouragement and accountability.
