When someone stops drinking after a period of heavy or prolonged alcohol use, the body goes through a series of physical and psychological changes known as alcohol withdrawal. For many, this can be a challenging phase, marked by a range of symptoms that vary in severity and duration. While the medical aspects of alcohol addiction and withdrawal are well-documented, what is less frequently addressed is the influence of trauma on this process. For individuals with a history of trauma, alcohol withdrawal symptoms can be more intense, more prolonged, and emotionally complex.
At Sana at Stowe—a luxury, trauma-informed rehab retreat in Vermont—we understand that no two recovery journeys are alike. Nestled in the picturesque charm of New England and accessible via the Burlington, Vermont airport, our medically-supervised detox program offers a safe and supportive environment to begin the healing process, especially for those navigating both alcohol withdrawal and trauma recovery.
Understanding Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
Alcohol withdrawal occurs because the central nervous system has become accustomed to functioning with alcohol present. Once alcohol use stops, the brain must recalibrate, often resulting in a range of physical and emotional symptoms. These can include:
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Irritability
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sweating
- Tremors
- Insomnia
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
These symptoms can vary based on how long and how heavily a person has been drinking, as well as their overall physical health.
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms Timeline
The symptoms of alcohol withdrawal typically begin within 6 to 24 hours after the last drink. Here’s a general outline of what many individuals can expect:
- 6-12 Hours: Mild symptoms such as anxiety, sweating, and headache may begin.
- 12-24 Hours: Symptoms often intensify. Some individuals may begin to experience hallucinations.
- 24-48 Hours: Risk of seizures increases. Monitoring during this stage is crucial.
- 48-72 Hours: The most severe form of withdrawal, known as delirium tremens (DTs), can occur. DTs may include confusion, rapid heart rate, and fever. This stage requires immediate medical attention.
Many ask, “How long do alcohol withdrawal symptoms last?” While acute symptoms typically subside within a week, lingering psychological effects such as anxiety and depression may persist for several weeks or months. This prolonged phase is sometimes referred to as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS).
Trauma and Alcohol Withdrawal: A Complex Relationship
For individuals with a history of trauma, including childhood trauma, neglect, or abuse, the process of withdrawal can be significantly more complex. Past trauma can heighten emotional responses and exacerbate symptoms such as anxiety, panic attacks, and dissociation during detox.
Moreover, trauma survivors may already have an overactive stress response due to their experiences. Alcohol may have served as a coping mechanism, masking symptoms of PTSD, depression, or anxiety. When alcohol is removed, those symptoms can resurface, sometimes with greater intensity. This makes trauma-informed care during detox not just beneficial, but essential.
The Importance of Trauma-Informed, Medically Supervised Detox
At Sana at Stowe, we take a trauma-informed approach to every aspect of care, including medically supervised alcohol detox. Our expert clinical team understands the physiological and psychological challenges associated with both alcohol withdrawal symptoms and unresolved trauma.
Our programs include:
- 24/7 medical monitoring to ensure safety and manage symptoms
- Access to trauma-informed therapists
- Holistic therapies like trauma-informed yoga and meditation
- Peer support in a private, serene setting
This combination creates an environment where clients can begin to heal physically and emotionally from alcohol use disorder and the trauma that often fuels it.
Mental Health or Addiction: Which Comes First?
In dual diagnosis cases, where mental health disorders and substance use disorders coexist, it can be difficult to determine which condition emerged first. However, for many, mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD often precede and contribute to the development of alcohol use disorder.
This has significant implications during detox and recovery. Treating only the substance use, without addressing the underlying mental health challenges, can lead to relapse. That’s why Sana at Stowe integrates both substance use and mental health treatment into every personalized care plan.
Additional Supportive Treatments and Assessments
Comprehensive care during alcohol withdrawal should also include:
- Alcohol screening test: Helps determine the severity of alcohol use disorder.
- AUD quiz: An initial step in self-assessment, often followed by clinical evaluation.
- Criteria for Alcohol Use Disorder: A diagnostic framework used to guide treatment planning.
- Alcohol and Depression rehab
- Detox and withdrawal management
Beyond detox, Sana at Stowe offers holistic treatment for alcohol withdrawal that includes:
- Nutritional support
- Art and music therapy
- Group and individual counseling
- EMDR and trauma-informed CBT
Residential Treatment in a Luxury, Nature-Rich Setting
Unlike app-based programs or virtual counseling, residential treatment provides an immersive and uninterrupted healing experience. Virtual options can be useful for some, but for individuals with complex trauma or severe alcohol withdrawal syndrome symptoms, they often fall short.
At Sana at Stowe, clients are removed from the stressors of daily life and immersed in a therapeutic environment designed for recovery. Our luxury accommodations, picturesque natural setting, and highly trained staff create the ideal backdrop for deep healing.
Testimonial
“Sana at Stowe helped me address more than just my drinking. They helped me understand why I was drinking and what I needed to heal. The peaceful environment and the personalized care made all the difference.”
Is Counseling Effective in Alcohol Use Disorder?
Yes—especially when combined with medically-supervised detox and residential support. Counseling provides a space to process trauma, learn coping strategies, and develop a healthier relationship with yourself and others. Trauma-informed care ensures that counseling sessions are delivered with empathy, safety, and an understanding of how past experiences influence present behaviors.
Begin Your Healing Journey Today
If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of alcohol withdrawal or has questions about how trauma may be influencing addiction, Sana at Stowe is here to help. Our medically supervised detox and residential treatment programs offer a safe, luxurious, and deeply compassionate environment in Vermont.
We accept in-network insurance providers such as TRICARE, and our admissions team is ready to help you explore your options. Healing from alcohol use disorder and trauma is possible, and the first step begins with reaching out.
Contact us today to begin your journey toward recovery and renewal. Sana can help with drug and alcohol rehab for you or your loved ones. Call us at (802) 553-3836, today!
