Home Alcohol Detox

I provide customised home detox programmes for clients in all parts of England & Wales. In summary, my service includes:

• Prescriptions for medication with verbal and written instructions
• Home visits by me (not agency staff) to monitor your safety and comfort
• Telephone support throughout the detox
• Structured follow-up for 3 months
• Ad-hoc follow-up for 1 year

Why detox?

A medicated detoxification from alcohol is needed when your physical dependence is severe enough that you have to drink to stop withdrawal symptoms like shaking, sweating, nausea or retching, anxiety, irritability & difficulty sleeping

Withdrawal can become dangerous or even life-threatening, so it may be unsafe to stop drinking without medication. For mildly dependent drinkers, it can be uncomfortable but not always dangerous to stop drinking suddenly. However detoxification could still be the best way of stopping.

You can check your level of dependence on alcohol by taking this online questionairre

Safety

Most people can detoxify at home, but some with a history of significant health problems, will need to detox in a hospital or private clinic. When we first talk about your drinking we will discuss any risks. I can even discuss them with your GP with your permission. If I don’t think home detox is right for you I will advise you on the safest alternatives.

How detox works

In alcohol detox drink is replaced with a drug that stops withdrawal symptoms. This is Chlordiazepoxide (sometimes called Librium®). As detox progresses the dose reduces over 7 to 10 days, giving your body a chance to get back to normal.

Preparing for detox at home

You’ll need to make a few preparations. There is more about this in my step by step guide to the home detox here, but generally it involves making sure you don't have any commitments for the duration of detox, and arranging for someone you trust to be with you. Most detoxes are uncomplicated, but it’s best to have company, and someone to check you're safe and well.

Advice and support to help you dry out

Whilst medication is important, the support and psychological help you receive is just as important. People who get specialist professional treatment find detox easier, and are more successful than those who don’t. I am always available on the phone and make frequent visits. We’ll talk about the changes you need to make to keep you sober, looking ahead and making plans to ensure future success.

All detoxes come with 3 months of structured follow up in person, by phone, by email or on Skype. Any of my detox clients can access ad-hoc telephone support for 12 months post-detox. Many of my clients appreciate being able to keep in touch to check out their progress with someone that knows them.

Fees

Detox treatments are individual to each client, so I can't quote an exact fee until after full assessment, and agreement about what you'll need.

As a guide, detox - with a full course of medication - is likely to be between £1500 and £2900.

The fee depends on the length and intensity of support you'll need, and where you live.

Find more specific guides to home alcohol detox costs by region - England & Wales