Working with a physician on the Monument platform can help determine what timeline will work for you based on your past drinking habits and risk of withdrawal. Whatever schedule is chosen, it’s important to commit so you can build upon your progress and avoid withdrawal symptoms as much as possible. When how to wean off alcohol at home an individual has developed a substance use disorder or dependence on alcohol, stopping its use outright can seem virtually impossible.
What Does it Mean to Taper Off Alcohol?
Substituting a prescription drug for alcohol should only happen with the help of a medical professional. No one should ever attempt a substitution taper with prescription medication unless their doctor specifically prescribed it for that purpose in a medical detox program. If the drink of choice is liquor, it is difficult to measure amounts and easy to binge drink.
Tapering Off Alcohol vs. Going Cold Turkey
- Individuals can taper off alcohol alone, though it is generally safer and more effective to do so under the supervision of addiction professionals.
- These CNS adaptations can contribute to the wide range of symptoms experienced during alcohol withdrawal, including anxiety, agitation, tremors, and seizures.
- By gradually reducing the proportion of mixers to alcohol, the tapering process can be greatly aided.
- It’s important to note that stopping drinking can be dangerous and even life-threatening.
Any general advice posted on our blog, website, or app is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace or substitute for any medical or other advice. If you have specific concerns or a situation arises in which you require medical advice, you should consult with an appropriately trained and qualified medical services provider. Before you begin an alcohol taper, a little preparation can go a long way, especially when it involves handling your triggers and tracking how much you drink. If you find it difficult to cut down on your number of drinks per day, try making your drinks weaker by using less alcohol per drink. You may also find it easier to stick to your taper schedule if you avoid certain places and situations. Weaning off alcohol involves gradually decreasing the amount of alcohol you drink.
Reduce Your Number of Drinks Per Day
Individuals who suffer from alcohol use disorder may recognize the devastating consequences of continued alcohol consumption, but they are simply unable to manage their own drinking. Implementing a gradual reduction approach, setting SMART goals, and utilizing resources and support are key strategies for safely reducing alcohol consumption. It is important to remember that seeking professional help is crucial for individuals with severe alcohol dependence. By gradually reducing alcohol intake, seeking medical supervision, and utilizing medications under healthcare guidance, individuals can safely and effectively wean themselves off alcohol.
After a person has acclimated to this new change, they can lower the number yet again. The goal may be a long way off, but eventually they can get it down to 0 drinks. When people drink alcohol, the body actually goes into overdrive to fight off the effects.
It’s possible to develop a better relationship with alcohol and make more mindful, informed choices about drinking without total sobriety. But maybe you’re unsure about quitting completely and don’t want to hold yourself to that goal. Becoming more aware of your alcohol triggers and reasons for drinking can help you plan ways to help manage the urge to drink. Learn 18 ways to keep your mind occupied while facing alcohol withdrawal. Another clue that can be an indication of an unhealthy relationship with alcohol is if you make “rules” around drinking.
Many people with addictions convince themselves that they are alone and are the only ones going through their experiences. It can be very comforting to know that many people have gone through withdrawal before. We recommend reaching out to others who are also going through withdrawal or joining group therapy. Professional detox is highly recommended for those likely to experience moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms and will support you during detox. Whether you’re sober curious, know for sure you’re ready to quit, or fall somewhere in between, Dr. Streem shares advice for how to stop drinking.
Emotionally, you may feel some anxiety or sadness about ending a chapter of your life and nervousness about the future. But, perhaps most importantly, understand that setbacks happen and that progress takes time or may look different than imagined. Alcohol withdrawal can cause many symptoms, some of which can be fatal. Overall, do whatever you can to make yourself as comfortable as possible.
- You may be able to detox at home and still attend outpatient therapy or support group meetings.
- If you take prescription medication, continue to take it as directed.
- It’s important to note that this method may not be suitable for everyone, and it’s advisable to seek medical advice for personalized guidance.
- It’s crucial to note that the use of medications for alcohol withdrawal should be closely monitored by healthcare professionals to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Symptoms and Clinical Manifestations
Progressively tapering off of alcohol rather than stopping abruptly can mitigate both the discomfort and the dangers of quitting this powerful substance. When done under medical supervision, tapering off alcohol has few downsides. However, tapering can sometimes be unsafe if you attempt to do so on your own without a doctor’s knowledge. For example, if you start to suffer from alcohol withdrawal symptoms despite an attempt to taper, your symptoms may worsen before you have the chance to seek medical attention. For this reason, even at-home tapers should be done under a doctor’s care.
This being the case, it can be scary and feel a little counterproductive to go through a more dangerous withdrawal process than is necessary. Following your provider’s tapering recommendations makes withdrawing from alcohol safer. Slowly tapering your alcohol consumption can give your brain and body a chance to gradually adjust to lower alcohol levels. This means that some withdrawal symptoms, like anxiety, irritability, and mood swings, may be less severe.