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Fatigue is a frequent and often overwhelming side effect of alcohol withdrawal. As your body adjusts to the absence of alcohol, energy levels can drop significantly, leaving you feeling persistently tired or weak.
This exhaustion stems from disrupted sleep, changes in brain chemistry, and the physical stress of detoxification. For many, fatigue lingers even after other symptoms improve, making it important to recognize, monitor, and manage as part of the recovery process.
Key Facts
- Alcohol withdrawal fatigue is caused by neuroadaptation, sleep disturbances and nutritional deficiencies.
- Factors that can make this fatigue worse include heavy alcohol use, prior withdrawal, polysubstance abuse, certain medical conditions and stress.
- Most alcohol withdrawal symptoms, including fatigue, commonly resolve within the first week.
- There is medical support and strategies that can ease fatigue.
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Understanding Fatigue During Alcohol Withdrawal
Fatigue during alcohol withdrawal is a natural response to the body’s effort to rebalance after prolonged exposure to alcohol’s sedative effects. Understanding why this happens is the first step in managing symptoms and supporting recovery.
Why It Is & Why It Happens
Fatigue resulting from alcohol withdrawal is a common symptom that depends on your history of alcohol abuse and overall physical health.
It is commonly time limited and can happen for several reasons, including:
- Neuroadaptation. Alcohol abuse changes the way the brain works by disrupting certain neurotransmitters such as GABA and glutamate. When an individual stops drinking, the brain is left in a hyperactive state with too little GABA (the calming chemical) and too much glutamate (the excitatory chemical).
- Sleep disturbances. Sleep disturbances include circadian misalignment and REM sleep suppression. Once you are in withdrawal you experience REM rebound, during which the brain compensates, leading to vivid dreams, nightmares, and restless sleep.
- Nutritional deficiencies. Chronic alcohol abuse often leads to deficiencies in certain vitamins such as magnesium, vitamins A and C and B vitamins including thiamine and folate.
Who’s More Affected & What Worsens It
Fatigue is a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal.
Several factors can make it worse, including:
- Heavy or prolonged alcohol use
- Prior withdrawal
- Certain health conditions, like liver disease, anxiety, depression, malnutrition, dehydration, anemia, and thyroid disorders
- Polysubstance abuse
- Irregular schedules triggered by stress, caffeine or energy drink misuse, late night scrolling and computer use
What to Expect
Alcohol withdrawal side effects can range from mild discomfort to serious medical complications, depending on how long and how heavily you have been drinking. Recognizing what to expect can help you prepare and seek proper medical support for a safer recovery.
Acute vs. Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome: How Long Fatigue Lasts
During acute alcohol withdrawal, fatigue normally peaks from 24 and 72 hours and improves along with other symptoms by the end of the first week.
By weeks 2-4, an individual may still see fluctuating energy levels as their sleep patterns begin to normalize. During this time, brain fog also gradually improves.
Some individuals may experience prolonged symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, lasting weeks or months. This is called post acute withdrawal syndrome or PAWS. These symptoms often occur in flare-ups triggered by stress or sleep loss and improve as routines become more stable and regular.
When It’s Not “Just Fatigue”
Fatigue can present as more than just being overly tired. During alcohol withdrawal, feeling fatigued can be more than just a symptom of withdrawal. It can indicate a more serious problem.
When to Seek Urgent Care
Symptoms that indicate you require immediate medical attention and treatment include:
- Neurological: Confusion, hallucinations, seizures, severe agitation or signs of delirium tremens
- Cardiac: Racing pulse, chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting.
- Autonomic Hyperactivity: High fever, sweating, tremors, anxiety
- Gastrointestinal: Black tarry or bloody stools, signs of severe dehydration, uncontrolled vomiting, severe abdominal pain or jaundice
- Mental Health: Suicidal thoughts
A Differential Diagnosis Must Rule Out Other Conditions
Individuals who complain of symptoms of fatigue should be evaluated for conditions that can make their alcohol withdrawal related fatigue worse.
Some conditions may include:
- Physical Health: Anemia, thyroid disorders, sleep apnea, liver disease or an acute infection
- Mental Health: Major depression or generalized anxiety disorder
- Medication: Sedatives, antihistamines, antipsychotics, antidepressants, or blood pressure medication
Evidenced Based Ways to Rebuild Energy
Most people experiencing alcohol withdrawal will have symptoms of fatigue. The good news is that there are several ways to make fatigue better.
Sleep Strategies That Work in Early Sobriety
During alcohol withdrawal, normal sleep patterns are disrupted.
Here are some ways to get you back on track:
- Melatonin: Used in low doses and for the short term it can make falling asleep easier. Avoid sedative/hypnotic medications unless directed by a medical professional.
- Morning light exposure: This triggers the body’s normal sleep/wake cycle.
- Limit naps: Limit naps to 20-30 minutes to avoid worsening insomnia.
- Limit evening screen time: The blue light emitted by devices like computers, television, smartphones and tablets disrupts normal melatonin production.
- Develop a wind down routine: Routines to help you relax help trigger your brain to know it’s time for sleep.
Nutrition & Hydration
People who have abused alcohol often develop nutritional deficiencies and have some degree of dehydration.
This can be treated by:
- Supplemental thiamine or vitamin B1, folate and magnesium. Avoid mega dose supplements
- Limiting sugary or energy drinks
- Hydration, either through increased oral intake or intravenous fluid replacement
- Eating a balanced diet that consists of protein, complex carbs and healthy fats
- Seeking medical care with uncontrolled vomiting or poor oral intake
Increasing Activity: Graded & Pacing
The withdrawal process can be exhausting. It is important to increase activity gradually.
This could mean:
- Starting with short walks, increase duration and steps by 10-20% each week as tolerated
- Adding light resistance exercises 2-3 times per week, making sure to prioritize form and safety
- Alternating activity and rest with a focus on consistency over intensity.
Getting Help Detox & Ongoing Treatment
The most important step for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder is seeking help.
This should begin with detox and continue through a comprehensive treatment plan that includes individual and group therapy, aftercare and relapse prevention.
Do You Need Supervised Detox?
Factors that indicate a person should undergo a supervised detox include:
- A history of seizures or delirium tremens (DTs)
- A pattern of very high alcohol use
- Unstable vital signs
- Any significant medical or psychiatric illness
- A limited support system
- A history of polysubstance use
- Pregnancy
- High CIWA scores and risk history
Supervised detox ensures the safest way to manage withdrawal symptoms using medication management, close professional monitoring, hydration, nutritional support and linkage to ongoing care.
What Medical Care Looks Like
During supervised detox, medical and addiction professionals use the CIWA-Ar monitoring tool to determine the most appropriate treatment of alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Depending on the severity of the symptoms, some individuals benefit from benzodiazepine administration following evidence based protocols or adjunct treatment with gabapentin or clonidine.
Nutritional supplementation, electrolyte correction and increased fluids, either orally or intravenously, may be used to treat deficiencies and dehydration.
Once an individual’s condition is stabilized, care shifts to long term treatment and goals. This may include the use of naltrexone or acamprosate, sleep therapy, peer support and relapse prevention planning.
Alcohol Withdrawal and Fatigue FAQs
Yes, fatigue is a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal, but it is usually temporary.
The severity and duration vary and can be impacted by alcohol use history, overall health, sleep and stress. Fatigue that is severe or worsens should be addressed by a medical professional.
Fatigue usually improves after the first week and gets better over time. For individuals with PAWS, they may experience intermittent brain fog or fatigue for months.
A schedule with consistent sleep, good nutrition, movement and stress management can shorten recovery time.
You should seek immediate care if you experience:
-Seizures, hallucinations or confusion
-High fever, severe vomiting or symptoms of dehydration
-Chest pain, shortness of breath or fainting
-Bloody or tarry black stools
-Jaundice or severe abdominal pain
-Suicidal thoughts
Chronic alcohol abuse can deplete many crucial vitamins that must be supplemented for stabilization, including:
-Thiamine or vitamin B1 which helps to prevent neurological complications
-Folate and magnesium, which are needed to support the liver, nervous system and proper muscle function
Any individual with liver disease or who is taking other medications should consult a medical provider before starting any supplements.
Find Treatment Near You
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Not sure where to start? Call today to talk to someone about your treatment options and see if your insurance will cover rehab.
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Top Rated Centers for Alcohol Addiction Treatment
| Name / Address / Rating | Description | Treatments / Payments / Programs | Review / Contact | Images |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
| Boca Recovery Center in Pompano Beach, Florida is located just 10 miles north of Fort Lauderdale. We provide comprehensive rehabilitation services ranging from medical detoxification and residential treatment to specialized programs that meet your unique needs. Boca Recovery Center in Pompano Beach, is an addiction treatment facility in Florida. Th | Treatments Programs Payment Options  Alcoholism Drug Addiction Dual Diagnosis Mental Health and Substance Abuse Opioid Addiction Substance Abuse  Adult Program Young Adult Program Seniors Program LGBTQ Program Military Program Program For Men Program For Women  Private Insurance Self-Pay Options Military Insurance Financial Aid | 
Great experience!
All the staff is great
Thank you for everything Nikki!
Eric Bryant
2 days ago
I have had the pleasure of working closely with Boca Recovery Center in Florida for years, and they continue to set the bar high. The team is professional, compassionate, and always focused on doing what’s best for their clients. Their consistency and integrity make them one of the most trusted names in the field, and I’m proud to recommend them without hesitation.
Ali Moore
2 days ago
This place is absolutely amazing. I was treated with respect and dignity by every single staff member and they did not give up on me although I left and came back multiple times.
Santiago Gamboa
3 days ago
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9 9 
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1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
| Soberman’s Estate, located in Cave Creek, Arizona, is an alcohol and drug rehab center that provides addiction treatment services to adult men, professionals, and public figures. They are a discrete, luxury rehab for individuals aged 30 to 80 years old. This location caps their treatment center at ten men at a time. Soberman’s Estate focuses on | Treatments Programs Payment Options Mental HealthSubstance AbuseAlcoholismOpioid AddictionMental Health And Substance Abuse Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramProgram For Men Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsFinancial Aid Sliding Scale Payment Assistance Medicaid Medicare | 
I had a great experience overall and would recommend it to anyone wanted to jump start their sobriety!!
Kevin Crawford
1 month ago
Very professional, great counselors, and a very good learning experience. Gave me structure and coping skills. Additionally, the psychiatric counseling was top notch.
Gregory Gheen
4 months ago
When it came to the realization I needed help to overcome my addiction, I ended up choosing to go to Sobermans. I couldn’t have been more grateful for this choice and the experience. I can’t say enough about the accommodations, setting, and food. However those things mean nothing without the proper staff. The best thing about Sobermans is their people. The care I received from each and every member of staff there was overwhelming. I’ve since returned for some aftercare and Alumni events, and upon my return, it feels like home. I would highly recommend Sobermans for any man that needs help with addiction or getting your mind cleared. I promise, if you put in the effort that their staff does, you will leave different person!
backfortyhunter Rose
5 months ago
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5 5 
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1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
| Symetria – Hurst Outpatient Rehab and Suboxone Clinic in Hurst, Texas, is a private drug rehabilitation clinic for adults. The CARF accredited clinic offers various withdrawal medications to help clients get started with their recovery journey. You’ll also have access to treatments such as the intensive outpatient program (IOP), one on one | Treatments Programs Payment Options Substance AbuseAlcoholismOpioid Addiction Adult ProgramYoung Adult Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMedicareMilitary Insurance | 
BEST PLACE EVER. I have tried various other doctors/clinics and none of them even begin to compare to this one. The staff here is absolutely amazing. I can’t even make a single complaint. Dr Son is the best as well. He explains everything and you truly feel like he understands you. I can proudly say this, this place saved my life. If you or someone you know needs help getting off opiates do it right the first time and come here. You won’t be disappointed. If you are specifically struggling with fentanyl please don’t waste your time with other ways. I have tried 6 other methods from lazer therapy to having the earpiece to suboxone. Methadone is the key to our current fentanyl crisis. This clinic makes recovery possible again!
Mason
1 month ago
Entire staff was friendly, helpful and supportive throughout the whole process from reception to nurses to counselors
William Maddux
2 months ago
The nurses at the hurst location and also Samantha the receptionist are all so kind and compassionate!! They all go above and beyond the call of duty. They should all be praised for their hard work and their kindness to their patients!!
Debbie Tyler
2 months ago
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5 5 
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1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
| The Steps To Recovery addiction treatment center is situated in Levittown, Pennsylvania. At this drug rehab center, patients can expect to engage in a unique treatment approach that focuses on helping individuals recover through authenticity, intimacy, community connection, and transparency. Steps to Recovery offers a serene and private environ | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismDrug AddictionDual DiagnosisMental Health and Substance AbuseOpioid AddictionMental Health Adult ProgramLGBTQ ProgramYoung Adult ProgramMilitary Program Self-Pay Options MonthlyPrivate Insurance | 
Great experience, professional staff, and flexibility of program was perfect for me! Feel like a new person. Thank you!
Doug Bradley
1 month ago
Steps to recovery was a great program. The bhts were great and understood what I was going through with a lot of them being in recovery as well. As well as the therapists being well trained and met my needs. Overall a wonderful program that I would return to.
Omi Floyd
1 month ago
My treatment here was absolutely a success. I came here highly depressed with a negative outlook on life with zero hope. In combination with group therapy and individual therapy, my whole perspective was changed. I’m leaving here refreshed and ready for what life has in store for me. Would absolutely recommend to anyone who is struggling with substances and or their mental health.
Abronah Chandler
1 month ago
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6 6 
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2
Top 10 in Alcoholism
| The Boca Recovery Center is a luxury alcohol and drug rehab center for adults in Bloomington, Indiana. They specialize in cutting edge addiction treatment provided in a residential setting. One unique part of this alcohol and drug rehab in Indiana is the peaceful, secluded setting. If recovering in a clinical hospital setting doesn’t sound very a | Treatments Programs Payment Options Drug AddictionAlcoholismOpioid AddictionDual DiagnosisMental Health and Substance AbuseSubstance Abuse Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramSeniors ProgramLGBTQ ProgramMilitary Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMilitary InsuranceFinancial Aid | 
Staff was amazing. Very comforting and friendly. Made me feel at home while going through a difficult time. Thank you Boca Recovery Center
Mandy Jo
3 days ago
Great living space, great food, great groups, amazing staff. I have no complaints at all. The staff would do anything possible to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Dustin Adams
3 days ago
Boca has helped me tremendously with my addictions that I’ve had, All of their staff has been wonderful and very professional, and I would recommend anybody that has any type of problems with any type of addictions or mental health to get into Boca. They certainly helped me..🙂
Roger Burkholder
3 weeks ago
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6 6 
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1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
| If you’re looking for a Christian-based men’s drug rehab center, S2L Recovery in Woodbury, Tennessee, might be the place for you or your loved one. Located at the top of Short Mountain, and overlooking the green hills of Middle Tennessee, this residential and detox clinic boasts a one-to-one staff/patient ratio so there’ll always be someone t | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismDrug AddictionOpioid AddictionSubstance AbuseDual Diagnosis Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramProgram For Men Private InsuranceSelf-Pay Options | 
Come here with a open mind and heart. It can and WILL change your life in all ways. Trust the process and trust God! Could go on and on about how amazing this place, I’ll forever be grateful!
Trevor Woodard
1 month ago
Everything about this place is great. Anyone struggling with addiction and wants to build a relationship with Jesus Christ this is the place to come.
Zach Walman
2 months ago
S2l recovery saved my life spiritually emotionally and physically speaking all classes and staff are very friendly and supportive people with my best in mind… Food is excellent… Lots of support and love here people are great
Andrew
2 months ago
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6 6 
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1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
 Claimed | Located in Watsonville, California, Elevate Addiction Services provides alcohol and drug rehab services to men and women suffering from addiction. Their levels of care include detox, inpatient treatment, and outpatient treatment. Elevate Addiction Services provides a wide continuum of care that meets each person where they are in their recovery pro | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismDrug AddictionOpioid AddictionSubstance Abuse Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramLGBTQ Program Self-Pay OptionsPrivate insuranceMilitary InsurancePrivate Insurance Financing | 
I recently completed the 30 day Core Peogram at Elevate Addiction Services in Watsonville. After two relapses following decades of previous sobriety, I knew I could benefit from an intensive inpatient residential program to set me bsck on the right path again. I’m so grateful I found Elevate right away. The 12 Steps originally got me sober, and I have no issues with AA/NA, but Elevate is based on SMART Recovery, which is built on a different foundation from the 12 Step program. I gained new insights through the intensive workbooking and structured group sessions, as well as my time spent with my on-site therapist. There’s a big emphasis on Mindfulness at Elevate, so be prepared to meditate and practice breathwork frequently. The rural location is serene, with spectacular views of the Pajaro Valley, and the wildlife is abundant. If you enjoy nature, this is a wonderful, peaceful location. The ranch-style property doesn’t look or feel institutional at all. The facilities are a bit worn (it was originally built 50+ years ago as a retirement home for nuns), so if you’re looking for a luxury rehab, this probably isn’t the place for you. But if you could benefit from delicious meals, CrossFit and yoga, volleyball and pickleball and a well-stocked game, book and DVD library, look no further! Every single employee has gone through the program themselves, so they really understand what you’re going through. Many people opt to stay on past their 60-90 day programs to train as staff members. The facilitators are caring, kind and helpful. The folks in the detox center are supportive and gentle. The security staff are strict but reasonable. Monday-Saturday, the schedule is very structured, with plenty of breaks and evening free time, and Sundays are completely free all day and night. You will be expected to do chores and follow rules. After an initial 7 day “blackout” period, clients have access during free time to shared cell phones in a common room, and once a week you have an opportunity to use your personal cell phone/laptop in a more private space. Visits from friends/family are limited, subject to pre-approval and only take place on Fridays from 3-6pm. The structure and rules are in place to help keep you focused on what you came there to do in the first place: get clean and sober! Overall, Elevate offers clients the opportunity to hit “pause” on the chaos of using and drinking, the tools to gain clarity and insight, and the strength and will to go back to living a clean and sober, productive life.
N. D.
1 week ago
Elevate was such a great program, it’s really changed my way of thinking for a positive
Thank you Elevate!!!
michael gonzales
2 weeks ago
It was the best program I could ever ask for going in at 18 I wasn’t courted to do anything the work is straight forward and really helped me to grow and mature thank you so much elevate you made me feel welcomed comforted and made me want to stay
Jayden Evans
2 weeks ago
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5 5 
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2
Top 10 in Alcoholism
Claimed | Clients seeking treatment for alcohol addiction may be required to undergo detox first. The detox process ensures any abused substances are out of a client’s system and that they are in a healthy frame of mind when they enter residential treatment. Detox is overseen and closely monitored by medical staff. The residential program takes clients | Treatments Programs Payment Options Substance AbuseAlcoholismDrug AddictionMental Health And Substance AbuseDual Diagnosis Adult Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMilitary Insurance | 
I attended Avenues Recovery in the fall, and my experience there was overwhelmingly positive. The facility is very accommodating, and the staff is helpful, upfront, and truly professional. I learned so much during my time there, and I’m genuinely grateful for the care and support I received.
The food was solid, the gym is great, and there are plenty of activities to keep you engaged — from volleyball and yard games to the pool in the summer. It creates a really healthy environment for recovery.
I would absolutely recommend Avenues to anyone struggling with substances and looking for a place that offers both structure and compassion.
A huge shoutout to Mark, Tyler, Kamisha, Bria, Bethany, Joey, Lydia, Mykayla, Joe, Cassie, Carlo, John and John, Warren, Crystal, Jenn, Diamond, Chef, Kerry, Valerie, Ralph, Mike, Alisa, and all the medical staff — your support made a real difference.
Tony C
1 day ago
I can’t say enough positive things about my time at the Lake Ariel location. It was my first stint at a rehab facility and the community there was life changing. The staff truly cared about my journey and wanted to see me succeed. The staff and community are family members to me. I was given the care I desperately needed to begin my sobriety journey and I’m not looking back! In particular, Tyler helped open my eyes to continuing my rehabilitation at a PHP in Bucks county and I don’t regret that decision. She was such an advocate for my future. I recommend this facility to anyone struggling with addiction and a desire to make positive change in their life. The new me is experiencing life through a sober lens and I’m indebted to Avenues for life. Thanks to all that helped me during the darkest time of my life. Big love to my Avenues family! We all we got! We all we need! You got this!
Todd Murray
1 day ago
Going to avenues was the absolute best move I could have made..First thing I noticed was alot of people actually cared not gonna lie it was a struggle I wanted to leave more than once but I was always talked down from the caring staff that was around..There isn’t a better place the food is good, played a ton of basketball and threw the football around the fires and speakers at nite very cool only thing that was hard was the gender ban but it was that way for a reason.. Today im over a year clean and doing great in life and I can’t thank avenues enough..Its a great place but you have to give it a chance its not easy have to be ready to just give in and learn a new way of life!
sean hunter
1 week ago
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5 5 
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1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
| Boca Recovery Center – Galloway is a drug and alcohol rehab in Galloway, NJ. They provide inpatient addiction treatment and medical detox. Boca Recovery’s New Jersey Drug & Alcohol Rehab, located in Galloway, New Jersey offers residential addiction treatment, medical detox, and medication-assisted treatment in an immersive treatment s | Treatments Programs Payment Options Mental Health and Substance AbuseDrug AddictionAlcoholismOpioid AddictionDual DiagnosisSubstance Abuse Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramProgram For MenProgram For WomenSeniors ProgramLGBTQ ProgramMilitary Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMilitary InsuranceFinancial Aid | 
It was a fine everyone was helpful and nice food was good too
Eric Kantor
1 day ago
Had a great experience at Boca recovery everyone was so helpful thanks to all staff members and clinical members
Harripersaud Subick
2 days ago
Boca Detox saved my life quite literally. I recommend if you are struggling that you reach out to these people. Sissy is my favorite person here so shout out to her..but honestly all the staff are great and they care about saving lives
Richard Forguson
2 days ago
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7 7 
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1
Top 10 in Alcoholism
Claimed | Avenues Recovery Center in Clarksville, Indiana, is an inpatient drug and alcohol detox and rehab center. They strive to provide individuals receiving treatment with a loving environment and attentive medical care. You’ll be away from toxic environments and triggers and have the opportunity to focus on developing life skills that will support you | Treatments Programs Payment Options AlcoholismMental Health And Substance AbuseDrug AddictionOpioid AddictionSubstance AbuseDual DiagnosisMental Health Adult ProgramYoung Adult ProgramLGBTQ ProgramMilitary Program Private InsuranceSelf-Pay OptionsMedicaidMilitary Insurance | 
Great groups and staff very good people here
Bryan Johnson
1 week ago
They helped me immensely.
Learned a lot about myself.
Charles Meadows
1 week ago
So grateful for avenues clarksville, they helped me start a journey that.i couldn’t have been more grateful, they saved my life. Shout out to all the staff. 😍
Brandon Terry
1 week ago
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