Alcohol addiction comes in various forms, impacting every individual differently based on numerous factors like genetics, environment, mental health, and drinking patterns. So, how long does it take to get addicted to alcohol? The answer is not black and white as there’s no universal timeline, but physical alcohol dependence can begin to develop within a few weeks to a few months of regular heavy drinking. The risk factors that can lead to addiction include how often someone binge drinks, at what age they started drinking, their family history of alcohol use disorder, underlying mental health issues, and stress levels. Early warning signs of developing dependence include needing more alcohol to get the same effect, having trouble limiting alcohol consumption, and experiencing symptoms of alcohol withdrawal between drinking sessions.

With so many factors at play in determining how and when an alcohol addiction can start, it’s imperative to recognize the early warning signs before it’s too late. Once alcohol dependence impacts a person’s life, it’s only a matter of time before the drug consumes every aspect of their life. The World Health Organization estimates that about 2.6 million deaths were caused by alcohol consumption in 2019. This staggering figure highlights the importance of knowing how to properly recognize and manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms and where to seek treatment.

 

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What Happens When Your Body Becomes Dependent on Alcohol?

When the body becomes physically dependent on alcohol, it adapts to functioning with alcohol constantly present in the system. The brain adjusts its chemistry to compensate for alcohol’s depressive effects by increasing the production of stimulating neurotransmitters like glutamate while reducing the production of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). This creates a new, artificially maintained state of balance that requires alcohol to feel “normal.” The liver also adapts by producing more enzymes to break down alcohol more quickly, which contributes to increased tolerance over time.

When alcohol is then removed from the body that has adapted its system to accommodate alcohol’s effects, the body enters a state of instability, leading to withdrawal symptoms. The removal of alcohol from a dependent person can cause tremors, anxiety, increased heart rate, high blood pressure, sweating, and in severe cases, seizures or delirium tremens (DTs). The severity of these symptoms depends on factors like how long someone has been drinking, how much they typically drink, and their overall health. This is why stopping alcohol suddenly after developing physical dependence can be dangerous or even life-threatening, and medical supervision is often necessary for safe detox.

 

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How Long Is Alcohol Withdrawal?

The detox stages of alcohol withdrawal typically follow a general timeline, though the duration and severity can vary significantly based on factors like drinking history and overall health. The general timeline generally goes like this:

First 6-12 hours

  • Mild symptoms begin, including anxiety, headaches, mild tremors, and upset stomach.
  • Some people experience insomnia and sweating.

12-24 hours

  • Symptoms typically intensify
  • More severe tremors may develop
  • Disorientation and confusion can occur

24-72 hours:

  • This is often the most intense period
  • The risk of seizures is the highest
  • Some people may experience hallucinations
  • Blood pressure and heart rate may spike
  • In severe cases, DTs may develop, which is a medical emergency

Days 4-7

  • Most acute physical symptoms begin to improve
  • Psychological symptoms like anxiety and agitation may persist
  • Sleep patterns start normalizing

After Week 1

  • Most acute withdrawal symptoms resolve.
  • Some people experience Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) which can last months.
  • PAWS symptoms include mood changes, anxiety, sleep issues, and cravings.

Due to potentially dangerous complications, alcohol withdrawal should be medically supervised, especially for heavy drinkers or those with previous withdrawal experiences.

How Long After You Quit Drinking Does Your Body Return to Normal?

The body’s recovery timeline after quitting alcohol is highly individual and depends on factors like how long and heavily someone drank, their overall health, age, and lifestyle habits. In the first few weeks after quitting, the body begins several important healing processes. The liver, which typically needs four to eight weeks to process excess fat buildup from alcohol, starts to repair itself and reduce inflammation. Blood pressure often begins normalizing within days or weeks, while sleep patterns and hydration levels typically improve within the first month. The gut also begins healing, leading to better nutrient absorption and reduced inflammation throughout the body.

The brain takes longer to return to normal functioning, with some cognitive improvements noticeable within a few months but full recovery potentially taking up to a year or more. Physical changes continue as well as skin becomes clearer and more hydrated within weeks to months, and the risk of certain cancers begins decreasing. The immune system strengthens progressively over several months, making the body better equipped to fight off infections. However, some changes from long-term alcohol use may be permanent, particularly if organ damage occurs, which is why early intervention and professional medical support during recovery are important.

 

how long does it take to i get addicted to alcohol

How to Come Out from Alcohol Addiction?

Overcoming alcohol addiction typically requires a comprehensive approach that combines professional help, personal commitment, and a strong support system. The first step is often acknowledging the problem and seeking professional medical help, as attempting to quit alone can be dangerous due to withdrawal symptoms. A treatment specialist can assess the severity of the addiction and recommend appropriate alcohol rehab treatment options, which may include medical detox, inpatient rehabilitation, or outpatient programs. These structured programs provide essential tools for recovery, including therapy to address underlying issues, medication if needed, and strategies for managing triggers and cravings.

Building a new lifestyle that supports sobriety is crucial for long-term success. This often involves making significant changes like avoiding places and situations associated with drinking, developing new coping skills for stress and emotional challenges, and possibly changing social circles to connect with sober individuals. Many people find success in replacing drinking with healthy activities like exercise, meditation, or creative pursuits. It’s also important to address any co-occurring mental health issues, as these can contribute to addiction. Recovery is typically an ongoing process that requires patience and persistence, and relapses should be viewed not as failures but as opportunities to strengthen the recovery strategy.

How Long Does It Take to Get Addicted to Alcohol? Find Addiction Treatment Resources at WhiteSands Treatment

The timeline for how long it takes to get addicted to alcohol can vary, but the important aspect is to recognize the easy signs of addiction and find help. Professional treatment for alcohol addiction has proven to be one of the most effective ways to overcome alcoholism for good. WhiteSands Treatment has addiction treatment facilities across Florida to ensure everyone can access the ideal type of treatment for their recovery needs. Our personalized treatment approach ensures every patient is treated as an individual so they receive the best care possible. Please call us at 877-855-3470 to learn more about how to overcome alcohol addiction with our customized treatment programs at our professional treatment centers.

 

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If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.

About the Author

Jackie has been involved in the substance abuse and addiction treatment sector for over five years and this is something that she is truly eager about. She has a passion for writing and continuously works to create informative pieces that not only educate and inform the public about the disease of addiction but also provide solutions for those who struggle with drug and alcohol abuse.