Supporting someone with alcohol dependence can be challenging, but your role is crucial in their recovery journey. This page outlines how you can help, what to expect from treatment, and the importance of your support during the process.
Understanding alcohol dependence
Recognising and seeking treatment for alcohol problems is a brave act. Recovery is often a long and challenging journey that requires structured support and a strong commitment to change. Family, friends, and carers play a vital role in this process.
Signs of alcohol dependence
- Withdrawal symptoms, such as shaking, sweating, or feeling hot and cold
- Needing alcohol to relieve withdrawal symptoms
- Drinking larger amounts over time to feel the same effects
- Strong cravings to drink
- Struggling to control the amount consumed
- Neglecting responsibilities or activities in favour of drinking.
Stopping alcohol suddenly can be dangerous. If the person experiences withdrawal symptoms, it’s essential to reduce alcohol use safely under medical guidance.
The stages of treatment
Stage 1: Preparation
The goal of this stage is to stabilise drinking, regain control, and prepare for life after stopping alcohol.
Your role:
- Reduce or stop your own drinking to create a supportive, alcohol-free environment
- Encourage the person to follow their treatment programme.
Why this stage matters:
- Completing this stage increases the chance of maintaining abstinence during the first months of recovery.
Many people who complete this stage are able to reduce their drinking safely over time without needing medication to help them stop.
Stage 2: Detoxification
Detoxification (commonly referred to as detox) involves using prescribed medication to safely manage withdrawal symptoms over 7–10 days. This can take place at home, in the community, or in an inpatient setting, depending on medical needs.
Your role:
- Be present during a home detox, especially in the first three days, to provide support and monitor progress
- Stay involved as much as possible for the remainder of the detox.
Key facts:
- Detox is a medical process and must be closely monitored
- Not everyone requires a medicated detox; this is determined by medical assessment.
Stage 3: Relapse prevention
Following detox, relapse prevention focuses on building long-term recovery through psychological support and lifestyle changes.
Your role:
- Support the person in maintaining an alcohol-free environment at home
- Encourage attendance at aftercare groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or SMART Recovery.
Key facts:
- Relapse prevention medication can help, but only when combined with psychological support and community engagement
- Without aftercare, 90% of people who detox are likely to relapse within the first month.
Helpful resources
• Structured Preparation for Detoxification from Alcohol (SPADe) guide
• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): Support for ongoing abstinence
• SMART Recovery: Tools for self-management and recovery training.
If you have any questions or would like further advice, please speak to the person’s key worker or contact us directly.