Alcohol Detox

Published by John Gillen | Last updated: 26th October 2026

checkmark Clinically Reviewed by Dr. Olalekan Otulana (Advanced Practitioner)

All information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.
Last Reviewed: 26th October 2026

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At Cassiobury Court, we provide professional alcohol detoxification directly from our rehabilitation centre. Here our inpatients are monitored through the detox period with medical support providing constant supervision throughout the process.

What is an Alcohol Detox?

Alcohol detox is the first stage of treating an alcohol dependence. It’s not a treatment for addiction itself; it’s the process of ensuring withdrawal is done safely so that the next stage of treatment can start. When you stop drinking alcohol, depending on the severity of your addiction, you will also face some side effects. These can range from mild side effects like nausea and insomnia to more severe side effects such as tremors, palpitations and delirium tremens.

Not everyone who drinks needs a medically managed detox. A detox is usually recommended when someone is physically dependent on alcohol; for example, if you get withdrawal symptoms when you cut down, you drink to stop shakes or sweats, or you have tried and failed to stop on your own. A doctor or nurse will assess this.

If you want to speak to one of our detox nurses and ask any questions you can call us on 01923 369 161 or text HELP To 83222.

How Does an Alcohol Detox Work?

A medically supervised alcohol detox follows four steps.

Assessment. A clinician will ask about how much and how often you drink, any past withdrawal, seizures or delirium tremens, your physical and mental health, and any other substances or medication.
Medication. Most people are given a reducing course of a benzodiazepine such as chlordiazepoxide (Librium) to prevent seizures and ease symptoms. NHS guidance describes this as the most commonly used detox medicine. You will also be offered thiamine (vitamin B1) because heavy drinking commonly depletes it.
Monitoring. Our nurses check your symptoms regularly and adjust medication to match what you need.
Stabilisation and transition. As the acute phase passes, medication is reduced and stopped, and you move into therapy.

For most people, the acute phase of withdrawal lasts around 7 to 10 days, which is why alcohol detox programmes run for 10 days. This varies with how much you have been drinking and your general health.

Meet Our Team

Our team includes experienced counsellors, psychologists, and medical professionals specialising in addiction treatment and mental health. We are passionate about helping people overcome addiction and achieve their goals for a healthier and happier life.

We hold the highest professional standards here at our CQC-registered rehab centre. Our fully trained GPs, Physchiatristes, Support Workers, Counsellors and Mental Health Nurses can deliver a comprehensive rehabilitation programme.

View All Team Members

Raffa Bari
CQC Registered Manager View Bio
Dr Mosun
Consultant Psychiatrist and Addictions Specialist View Bio
Dr Ola Otulana
GP and Addiction Specialist Physician View Bio
Alison Hipwell
Deputy Manager (Operations Officer) View Bio
Jane Pearce
Deputy Manager (Clinical Lead) View Bio

Psychological Aspects of Alcohol Detox

In addition to the physical withdrawal symptoms you will face in detox, it also puts pressure on you mentally. Unsupervised alcohol detox can be very dangerous due to the severe and unpredictable nature of withdrawal symptoms.

The psychological impact of withdrawal can increase anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts, which may go unnoticed without professional support. Medical supervision ensures that any complications are managed immediately, providing a safer environment for detoxification and reducing the risk of relapse.

If you detox at home and feel psychological pressures as you enter the withdrawal phase, it is easy to turn to drinking again, withdrawal is unpleasant and this can feel like an escape route. In fact, many people go through this process of attempting detox and relapsing as they feel the pressure mounting on them.

It is like a curve in the road; you can not see what is around the bend, as 1st you need to turn the corner. Once you have turned this corner, you will be able to see the road ahead. Unfortunately, many people also relapse when they are nearly through the peak withdrawal, expecting it to last forever; it does not. After a few days, most people are through the worst of it.

Lisa Long
3 Months Ago

My last day of a 28 day programme at Cassio, what can I say? The best decision I ever made, the staff are amazing, kind, considerate, nothing is too much and they always know everyone's name so a very personal touch. The group sessions are so informative and with lots of humour thrown in. Food, fantastic Alan the chef is great. Therapists and practitioners are top notch! Highly recommend Cassio, and the more you put into your recovery the more you will get out. I am leaving a different person and with tools to work the programme once those gates open! Thanks Cassio!!!

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kelly heath
0 Months Ago

I entered through the gates of Cassiobury court a very frightened and ill women. This was my first time in treatment and from the start I was made to feel welcome and loved by all the staff. Once going through my detox , I finally started joining the group workshops and meeting my peers. This place is amazing , every day you have a routine starting with breakfast and then onto group lessons and ex clients coming in to share their journey with you , which is the best thing ever as they have walked the same steps as you and you can really relate to them and see the hope that their is life after addiction . You are encouraged to work hard but also have some freedom to rest if needed. I found my mind opening to finally understand the illness I have been suffering from and to see its not only ME on my own , there are other people like me out there. Nearly every staff member is in recovery , which is so important as they understand what you are going through and teach you the tools to be able to maintain this once you leave rehab . You also have the opportunity to go to AA and CA meetings in Watford which is great as you go as a group and then gives you the confidence to continue once you leave . My keyworker was Rebecca and can not thank her enough , she really is AMAZING and has helped me so much . She is very honest and open and shares her journey with you which gives you the encouragement to feel safe and be able to open up and share yours with her xx Every member of staff in this place is full of so much knowledge and kindness . You always have someone to talk to if you need a chat or any help . The food is also fantastic ,Alan and Paula do an amazing job . There is menu every day and if you don't like what is on offer you can always ask them to make you something else. Sam and her team do a brilliant job of keeping your rooms clean /maintenance of the building . And again if there is anything you are not happy with or need you can always go to Sam and she will do her best to help you I have been very lucky to have meet some fantastic and supportive peers at my time in CC. Rebecca , Ayo , Martin , Gerard , Seth , Jane , Alison , Shipra , Laura , Sam , Raffa , Patricia and every member of staff I thank you from the bottom of my heart Kel xxxx

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steve chisholm
2 Months Ago

A really great place to get back on your feet and begin recovery. Staff could not be more helpful, therapy and groups are generally excellent. Rooms are very clean and well appointed, though size and ensuite is a bit of a lottery. Food is really very good, everyones tastes are catered for and in abundance. Snacks water juices, tea's and coffee's available 247. I would highly recommend Cassio to anyone looking to get sober change there life.

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Lily Hopkins
1 Month Ago

I have had serious addiction problems for the last 10 years that have ruined my life and the life of my loved ones. I am in my early 30’s and this was my third time in rehab but my first time staying at Cassiobury Court. The difference between Cassiobury and other facilities is incredible and you can’t compare with the level of support and love. The staff are kind, caring and know exactly what you are going through and what you need to do in order to get better. They have multiple different ways and techniques to support you and go above and beyond in every possible way to help you. Not only do they support you while you’re there but they also support you for the first year you leave with weekly catch up sessions. I have left Cassiobury with a huge network of people in recovery. Before I was lost and alone. I can’t thank Cassiobury enough for giving me another chance at life and I’ll be forever truly grateful ❤️❤️❤️

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John Page
0 Months Ago

This place equips you with everything you need to recover. Id not hesitate in recommending it. Fantastic, knowledgeable and passionate staff that works tirelessly to personalise care plans. Great food and accommodation.

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Michelle P
8 Months Ago

I have spent some time at Cassiobury Court over the last 6 months and cannot speak more highly of the experience. I admitted myself for alcohol addiction and was very scared when I arrived and did not have any idea what to expect. The staff could not have been kinder to me. I wanted to leave on day 2 because I was very anxious and out of my comfort zone, but fortunately staff members calmed me down and I ended up staying which I am very glad about. The schedule is very good with group sessions, some one on one sessions and therapy sessions. The food is excellent and the chefs are very accommodating if you wish to have something different. There is a daily trip to the local shop to get any bits you may need. All the staff are amazing, the recovery workers, the management, the chefs and kitchen staff and all that work at Cassiobury are all so caring and it really shows. You have time to get to know the rest of the group and I ended up building close bonds and have kept in contact with many that I met in Cassiobury (and I bump into people I met at meetings outside as well as on the aftercare calls). All in all, if your are considering a treatment centre then I would highly recommend Cassiobury Court, I am very grateful for my time there.

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Medical Supervision During Alcohol Detox

Alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening. Seizures can happen within the first day or two, and delirium tremens, which is a medical emergency if it develops, usually happens a few days in. These are both safer if there’s someone with the right training watching for them and can act immediately.

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms vary, particularly if the alcohol addiction is alongside a drug addiction too. For this reason, during admission into Cassiobury Court, you receive a psychiatric examination to determine whether you are in the correct mental state to undertake detoxification as the process can be quite distressing to some individuals.

Prescription medications can be provided during alcohol detox, this is dependent on the severity of your physical or physiological state during the withdrawal phase. We will talk some more about how we administer medication to ease these withdrawal symptoms next.

At our alcohol detox clinic, medical supervision means:

A doctor does a proper admission assessment, including a mental health check, before you even start the detox process
We’ve got nurses on site around the clock to keep an eye on you and make sure you remain stable
We work out a withdrawal medication plan with you, and adjust it as needed if you start to feel symptoms
And we have a clear plan in place in case of escalation and symptoms become more than we can manage onsite.

Some people will need to do their detox in a hospital rather than our clinic. If that’s you, it might be because you’ve had a seizure or delirium tremens in the past, or because you’re dealing with serious health issues. We’ll tell you straight away if that’s the case and help get you set up in the right place.

Thomas McGirr
3 Months Ago

I cannot speak highly enough of my time at Cassiobury. This was my second visit (unfortunately) and the support, experience and expertise has only improved in 3 years - I am incredibly glad I chose to return. The staff will change your life - measuring empathetic understanding with straight-talking honesty. I would recommend to anyone who’s struggling and wants to get on the path to recovery.

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Alice Whittaker
6 Months Ago

I stayed at Cassiobury Court for 28 days in December 2021 to January 2022 and I'm now 110 days clean and sober. The level of care and support you receive here from all the staff is outstanding. From admissions, to leaving through to aftercare I cannot thank everybody enough. They tirelessly go above and beyond to help every individual to get them back on track with detox, step work, one-to-one therapy, group therapy, acupuncture, fitness and good food. Each patient is different and the staff keep a very close eye on each individuals personal circumstances and try to guide them to the best of their abilities. Truely inspirational as have all been through the hell of addiction themselves so there is zero judgement. If you want it bad enough this is the safest environment to be in. I actually miss them all!!!

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Amy Elizabeth Munford
0 Months Ago

It’s a pleasure to have been a client at Cassiobury Court. From the moment I arrived I felt like a welcome part of the family, it’s non judgmental and compassionate approach to recovery has differed from any center which I have previously attended. The structure allowed me to develop at my own pace and to work through my recovery journey, which started with me at an all time low. When I entered I was a shell of a person, after a toxic relationship. My substance misuse and eating disorder was out of control and my health, mental and physical, was deteriorating rapidly. The staff, each with there own expertise and experience guided me compassionately and from a genuine place of kindness and warmth. The facilities, all departments from housekeeping, kitchen to admin and support staff, have made a genuine difference to the person I am leaving as. Strong, rebuilt and confident. Ready to step into a life of sobriety and positivity. I have made life long friends and made life long changes thanks to Cassiobury. I can genuinely recommend Cassiobury, to anyone who has found themselves in the depths of there addiction, they will help you find the path out, however unmanageable life may seem. All my love to the team there and to the clients past, present and future Amy x

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Natasha Healey
4 Months Ago

This was my first stay at a rehab facility and I entered for a 28 day stay. I came through the gates feeling like a hopeless lost child who had exhausted all other avenues, and now leave as a strong and hopeful individual with all the tools I need to carry on my sobriety journey on the outside. The day one, all the staff were caring and attentive, catering for all of your needs and explaining everything perfectly in a calm and friendly manner - you felt welcomed straight away. All of the days were filled with useful and varied sessions, with a structured routine, but still time to socialise and get to know your peers. One to one therapy sessions were invaluable, and I learnt a lot from my sessions which were conducted in a professional but caring manner, and have given me many techniques to take with me. Also the one to one key work sessions were brilliant, guiding you on your journey in a straightforward, constructive but also compassionate way. Also thanks to all of the amazing staff who ran all of our group sessions, I gained so much from these. The food was excellent, as well as the medical and housekeeping staff who ensured that you could focus your time and energy on your recovery at all times. For anyone seeking help with an addiction, I would 100% recommend Cassiobury Court.

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G-man
1 Month Ago

Cassiobury Court has given me the hope of another chance to live again a sober life that I once had about two decades ago. I was drinking alcohol heavily in recent years that led to so many problems in my life that I can't state here. I wasn't even aware that it is an illness, rather than a habit that I could get rid of just on my willpower before I walked through the doors here. Realization of how much damage this illness has done to my life and my loved ones wouldn't have come to me without the help I have received here. My initial thoughts were that I am going to prison but the ideology here is completely different. If you are willing to recover from alcoholism or in general, any addiction then this is the place to be. If you want to walk out, become a quitter and continue your same life then no one will stop you. Such a set-up really worked for me, especially because if it was a military-type rehabilitation then I would have walked out. All the key workers, counselors, kitchen staff, cleaners, pharmacists, nurses, and fitness & yoga trainers everyone is so accommodating, warm, and helpful beyond my expectations. If someone is really willing to recover then this is the place. Big big thank you to Cassiobury Court for saving me and I wish myself to be successful on my life-long road of recovery.

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Dan Peacey
2 Months Ago

The only way that I can start this review is by saying that Cassiobury Court saved my life. I have had a severe problem with alcohol for over 10 years and I almost lost everything, but due to the care, consideration and commitment the facility has to offer, I have been given the opportunity to start again and live a full life with sobriety. The sessions have not only taught me more about the illness and severity of it, but has also equipped me with the coping mechanisms and skills to manage those negative feelings and maintain a happy & healthy lifestyle. Each Recovery Practitioner provides a different approach and continued to show their professionalism and dedication to the cause before and even after my stay. I will be forever grateful to Cassiobury and I couldn't recommend it more.

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How Much Does an Alcohol Detox Cost?

At Cassiobury Court, our basic 10-day alcohol detox and rehab programme starts from £6,150*, but we can also offer longer stays if you feel you need to continue this into our rehab programme.

10 days (alcohol detox programme) £6,150*
14 days £8,400*
21 days £11,900*
28 days £14,850*

When you come to stay with us, we’ll take care of a whole range of things for you, including accommodation, meals from our on-site chef, laundry, a doctor’s assessment on arrival, expert nursing, and withdrawal medication and treatment.

*Please be aware that these prices are subject to change at any time, so it’s always a good idea to give us a call to confirm the current price before you make a decision.

Why Choose Cassiobury Court for Alcohol Detox?

The biggest difference is that you don’t have to start again somewhere new once detox ends. You are admitted, detoxed and moved into rehab by the same team in the same building, so the person who knows how your withdrawal went also helps plan your therapy. Treatment methods such as cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy and one-to-one counselling are utilised as a part of the alcohol rehab process upon successful completion of alcohol detox.

These methods give you the best possible chance of recovery, as they aim to help you identify potential triggers and learn how to manage them to reduce the risk of relapse. Our trained specialists are available to treat the cause of your addiction as well as the symptoms. After you leave, our aftercare is there to support you through your first year, and it’s free to access.

Our detox clinic is in Watford, in a calm setting away from your usual surroundings. Meals from our on-site chef and a laundry service are included, so we take care of the practical side of life.

We are also regulated by the Care Quality Commission. People who have stayed with us rate us 4.6 out of 5 on Google, based on 74 reviews.

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Where to Start Alcohol Detox at Cassiobury Court

Cassiobury Court offers comprehensive alcohol detox as the first stage of an alcohol rehab programme. alcohol withdrawal

Call or message us: Our freephone is 0800 001 4070. You can also make an enquiry.
Initial conversation: We ask about your drinking, health, and situation, and answer your questions.
Medical screening: We gather the medical information we need to confirm that detox with us is safe for you.
Admission: We agree on an admission date, and our team will tell you what to bring. If you need to start sooner, see urgent rehab admissions. More on the admission process.

Contact Our Admissions Team Today

To find out more about alcohol detox and withdrawal as well as our full rehabilitation programmes, contact us on 01923 369 161. We will talk you through our different treatment options and make you feel at ease about your alcohol dependency – we have been providing medically assisted detox and withdrawal for substance abuse disorders for almost a decade and know how to make you feel comfortable about them.

Alcohol Detox FAQs

What Are The Symptoms Of Alcohol Withdrawal?

If you quit drinking after prolonged alcohol abuse, it will be unlikely that you won't experience any of these withdrawal symptoms as part of detox.

These symptoms can be divided into two different categories:

Physical Withdrawal Symptoms:

Hand tremors
Nausea and/ vomiting
Sweating
Minor to moderate seizures

Psychological Withdrawal Symptoms:

Anxiety & Depression
Irritability
Restlessness
Insomnia

Can I detox from alcohol at home?

Attempting an alcohol detox at home can be tough, the lack of professional support can make it difficult to manage your cravings and the psychological stress of detox, increases the likelihood of relapse. Medical supervision provides a safer environment, with access to medications and support to ease the process and address any complications that arise.

If you do choose to detox at home, you should consult your GP beforehand and have a support system in place. This can include close monitoring by a family member or friend and access to emergency medical care.

What Are Delirium Tremens?

Delirium Tremens is defined as a psychotic condition typical of withdrawal in chronic alcoholics, involving tremors, hallucinations, anxiety, and disorientation.

Common symptoms which are associated with DTs include:

Nightmares
Hallucination
Fever
Perspiration
Vomiting
Seizures
Heightened heart rate
Tremors
Increased blood pressure

Can Delirium Tremens Cause Death?

Yes it is rare, but Delirium Tremens can be fatal.

This is why it is important to undergo detox in a medically supervised environment, as detoxing from alcohol without supervision can be dangerous.

Is It Possible To Avoid Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms During Detox?

Usually this is not possible. If your body has been dependent on alcohol for a while then you will almost certainly experience withdrawal symptoms when undertaking detox.

How Long Does It Take To Detox From Alcohol?

Symptoms from a substance abuse detox normally peak by 24 hours to 48 hours – but if you are a heavy drinker – usually, it will take 7 to 10 days to fully detox from alcohol. The detox process usually varies depending on the drinker.

Dr. Olalekan Otulana (Advanced Practitioner) - Medical Reviewer - Last Reviewed: 26th October 2026

Dr. Olalekan Otulana MBChB, DRCOG, MRCGP, DFSRH, FRSPH, MBA (Cantab)

Dr Otulana is a highly experienced GP and Addiction Physician. He has a specialist interest in Substance Misuse Management and he has a wide range of experience in the assessment, management (including detoxification) and residential rehabilitation of clients with various drug and substance addiction problems. His main aim is to comprehensively assess patients with addiction problems and determine their treatment needs for medical detoxification treatments and psychological interventions. He is also experienced in managing patients who require dual drug and alcohol detoxification treatments.

A strong healthcare services professional with a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) degree from Cambridge University Judge Business School.