Paul Gascoigne Hospitalized After Bad Reaction To Alcohol Detox

The former England football player has made headlines numerous times because of his well known struggles with alcoholism. Several stays in rehab centers have been made, the most recent stay ending with a hospitalization due to an alcohol detox. Gascoigne’s health suffered within a few days of beginning detox and forced the ex-player to take a break from treatment. The incident is not uncommon. Patients who have abused drugs or alcohol for decades are at a higher risk for complications during a detox. That’s why detoxing under the supervision of a medical professional is so important.

What’s next for the ex football player? Gascoigne continues his attempts at recovery while the media tracks his every move. He has admitted to suffering from eating disorders, bipolar disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder in the past. Perhaps a treatment plan that takes these co-occurring disorders into consideration could help Paul Gascoigne stay sober.

Steps Of Recovery, And Is Detox Really Necessary?

Detox may or may not be necessary for someone beginning treatment at a rehab facility. Depending on the age, health, and history of drug or alcohol use, it may be possible to begin treatment right away. In the cases of heavy drug or alcohol users, detoxing is necessary to safely transition into sobriety.

Recovery begins with the decision to seek help. Admitting you have a problem takes courage and doing something about it is an accomplishment in itself. Remember to acknowledge yourself for every accomplishment you make along the way. Beginning a new, sober life is not an easy feat and it’s something that many have tried and failed at. Reaching out for help is how it all begins. Don’t be afraid to ask for the help that you need. Help yourself by allowing others to help you.

A rehab center provides a safe place to focus on your treatment and building a foundation for a better future. By working with addictions, specialists, therapists, and other patients, you create a treatment plan that is unique to your own needs and background. Addiction can be an isolating experience, so the connections you form in rehab become especially important. The people you meet there may provide a connection that supports you even after leaving the facility and transition back to your everyday life.

Transitioning Back To Your Life.

Believe it or not this is one of the most vulnerable stages of recovery, where many fall into a relapse. The reason behind this is often insufficient preparation. Applying what one has learned in rehab to real life situations can be challenging. There are also certain people, places, and emotions that trigger addictive behavior. If not properly addressed during treatment, the chances of a relapse become much higher.

It’s an excellent idea to find ways to continue treatment, either through your rehab or a 12 step group. This keeps you focused on recovery, in touch with the sober community, and prevents feelings of isolation that many newly sober people face. Recovery can happen, but it can’t be done alone.

John Lloyd is an addiction treatment specialist working at the LA rehab center Seasons In Malibu.

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