16 Ways To Stop Drinking Alcohol

how to taper off alcohol at home

The alcohol content in specific beer, wine and liquor products differs. You can use the guidelines to get an idea of how many standard drinks you’re used to. Most people experience the most severe symptoms from about 36–72 hours after stopping drinking. But treatment varies based on the severity of alcohol withdrawal and the likelihood that it could progress to severe or complicated withdrawal.

What to Expect When You Reduce Your Alcohol Consumption

how to taper off alcohol at home

Alcohol detox medications can make the process safer and more comfortable. They can also ensure your alcohol detox is successful by making it nigh impossible to relapse if symptoms get difficult. Additionally, the post-detox treatment resources available at a professional treatment center can ease the transition to sober living and give you the tools you need to stay sober long-term. The kindling effect is an aspect of alcohol withdrawal that makes repeated attempts at withdrawal less safe. If you go through alcohol withdrawal multiple times, a kindling effect can occur.

how to taper off alcohol at home

Dangers and Risks of Self-Detox

You might run into obstacles along the way that tempt you to drink. Keep in mind the reasons you chose to cut back on or quit alcohol. At the end of the day, one of the most important tools you have at your disposal is self-compassion. Instead of criticizing yourself for having a hard time or slipping https://ecosoberhouse.com/ up and having a drink, remember that no one’s perfect. What matters most is your ability to maintain an open, curious outlook as you learn what does and doesn’t work for you. Satisfying hobbies can distract you from wanting to drink, but they also help you relax — something everyone needs to do.

Why Do You Experience Withdrawal Symptoms?

Hydration is also important, so drinking plenty of water and avoiding caffeine is advised. Some people find that smaller, more frequent meals help if nausea is an issue. A good diet won’t lessen withdrawal effects but will support your body’s ability to deal with them. Many people with addictions convince themselves that they are alone and are the only ones going through their experiences.

Tapering can help you overcome alcohol dependence, which is a side effect of chronic alcohol use that causes cravings and withdrawal. Detox doesn’t treat addiction, which is a disease characterized by compulsive behaviors, such as chronic alcohol use. The main management for severe symptoms is long-acting benzodiazepines — typically IV diazepam or IV lorazepam. When you call our team, you will speak to a Recovery Advocate who will answer any questions and perform a pre-assessment to determine your eligibility for treatment. If eligible, we will create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. If The Recovery Village is not the right fit for you or your loved one, we will help refer you to a facility that is.

  • It may also help with hot flashes that can occur during alcohol withdrawal.
  • AUD is the most common substance use disorder in the U.S., affecting 28.8 million adults.
  • When symptoms become that serious, it can be difficult to seek help.
  • Tapering can sometimes help a person avoid uncomfortable and sometimes deadly symptoms of withdrawal.

how to taper off alcohol at home

Cutting back or completely stopping alcohol consumption is challenging, even if you are not at the point of addiction. The support of medical professionals and psychologists can help you in this process. Self-detox is an individualized approach without professional or medical support.

how to taper off alcohol at home

How To Taper off Alcohol Safely and Effectively

There are also a number of anti-craving medications to help you avoid drinking again, or even help with your tapering process. Finally, finding a therapist or a recovery coach can help you develop new coping mechanisms and move forward in your life. Depending on how much you drink, tapering off alcohol can take one to several weeks. It’s best to reduce your drinking by a small amount each day to avoid the shock to your system.

Sunnyside uses a psychology-based approach to help you drink more mindfully, no matter what your goal is. You’ll get a 100% custom plan, then daily texts to track your progress how to taper off alcohol at home and help you stay on target. Remind yourself of why you want to cut back, talk to a friend about it and distract yourself with a hobby or exercise, the NIAAA suggests.

What to Know About Tapering Off Alcohol