Alcohol de-addiction is best treated in specialized centres. The first stage is detoxification. When the drinking is suddenly stopped, the alcoholic experiences uncomfortable physical symptoms (known as withdrawal symptoms). During this phase, it is important that his physical condition is monitored and some medication may be required to ease certain physical symptoms such as shaking, lack of sleep or anxiety.

If the alcoholic is discharged after this stage, he is most likely to return to drinking, since alcoholism is highly relapse-prone.

Therefore, it is best that the individual is made to stay in an alcohol de-addiction facility for effective therapy that includes relapse prevention counselling. De addiction program should include a mix of medication, individual counseling, psycho-education, relationship building, spiritual exposure, physical exercise and healthy diet. A structured lifestyle should be followed to restore balance during alcohol de-addiction.