If you have decided to move forward and enter an alcohol detox program, know that you are on the way to getting your life back in order again. However, you must know that the first difficult stage of any alcohol rehab program is alcohol withdrawal. Knowing what you are up against, and preparing for them in every way possible will make you successful in becoming sober.
Here are 5 ways to ready yourself to go into an alcohol detox program.
1. Inform Your Employer
There is no point in trying to hide it. You can’t just let your boss think you disappeared off of the face of the earth. You are going to have to let your employer know that you are going to be entering an alcohol detox program. There is nothing for you to be ashamed of.
During your stay in rehab, your job is protected for 12 weeks of medical leave, due to the Family and Medical Leave Act. Letting your employer know as soon as possible is a courteous and respectful act, that will help him or her make other arrangements in your absence.
2. Make Family Arrangements
If you have children in your care, you may need to make arrangements for others to take care of them while you are away. This might be a significant other, relative, or close friend who takes care of them. Whoever it is, make certain that it is someone that your children feel comfortable with.
If you have pets, you will also need to make sure that someone is looking after them as well. Seek out a boarding facility or local pet sitting options if a neighbor or loved one isn’t available.
3. Take Care of Your Finances
Letting your bills go late while you are in rehab isn’t exactly going to make your homecoming a stress-free event. Setting up automatic payments is one option. If that won’t work for you, pay your bills early or utilize the help of a trusted friend to mail your bills when the time is right.
4. Prepare Your Essentials
Logically, you will want to make sure that you pack everything that you need for your trip to the rehab center. However, don’t overdo it. Pack light and smart. Be sure to bring items such as:
- Prescription medications and insurance cards
- Identification such as Driver’s License
- Credit or debit cards
- Contact phone numbers
- Hygiene and grooming products
- Clothing that is comfortable and appropriate
- A journal
5. Relax and Spend Time With Loved Ones
Before going into rehab, you may feel like you have a million things to do. However, don’t forget to take time to spend with the positive people in your life that you love. Surround yourself with those who support your decision to get help.
Take time out to relax. Think about an activity that truly relaxes you, and spend time doing it. It might be soaking in a warm bath, going to get a pedicure, or watching your favorite TV show. Whatever it is, indulge yourself in relaxation while you can.
Going Through Alcohol Withdrawals
Another thing you need to do is mentally prepare yourself for what you might experience when going through alcohol withdrawals. There is a myriad of unpleasant symptoms that you may expect to feel during this challenging time. Here are a few of them:
- Anxiety, nervousness or jumpiness
- Depression
- Irritability, mood swings
- Fatigue
- Nightmares
- Unclear thinking
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Tremors
- Nausea and vomiting
Severe cases of alcohol withdrawals may cause delirium tremens which result in symptoms such as fever, hallucinations, seizures, and extreme confusion.
Receiving Help at Asheville Detox
Now that you have prepared yourself for treatment and for going through alcohol withdrawals, understand that you will not be facing them alone. Our dedicated team of professionals at Asheville Detox will work hard to make sure that you are kept as comfortable as possible during this tough time. Don’t wait another day to leave alcohol behind. Contact a detox specialist today.
