Early Obstacles in Sobriety
Recovery from alcohol addiction or dependence is not overnight. It is a lifelong process that begins with the commitment to a lifestyle change. For many people the early stages of sobriety present some of the biggest challenges. We are all creatures of comfort, so changing the way we think and behave is difficult. Sobriety is uncomfortable for people with a history of heavy drinking. It can not only affect a person mentally but also physically.
Alcohol Withdrawal
When detoxing from substance abuse, a person may experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can be mild, moderate or severe depending on the person. Alcohol withdrawal can cause anxiety, restlessness, headaches or even seizures and heart palpitations. It is important that a person experiencing these symptoms be seen immediately by a medical professional. For many people, alcohol detoxification should be monitored by a team of specialists that can identify early signs of withdrawal and monitor for health risks.
Emotional Highs and Lows
Another common experience for someone in early recovery from addiction are imbalanced emotional responses. Many recovering addicts may experience a rollercoaster of emotions that range from feelings of guilt or remorse to anger and frustration. It is important to discuss how you are feeling with a psychiatrist or licensed therapist.
Recovery is not easy, but sobriety can save lives. Alcohol is a leading preventable cause of death in the United States and across the world. It is important to approach recovery whole heartedly with realistic expectations about the impact it will have on your mind, body and soul.