These groups often follow a https://appsychology.com/living-in-a-sober-house/ structured program that includes regular meetings, discussions, and support from peers who have similar experiences. Through these interactions, you can gain insights, learn from others’ journeys, and find encouragement to stay sober. Jeff’s work has been used in rehabs across the country as tools to help patients achieve sobriety. At Legacy, we’re dedicated to fully healing your mind, body, and spirit from the ravages of alcoholism. We utilize a three-pronged, holistic approach that combines the right psychotropic medications, cutting-edge clinical therapy, and an environment of supportive peers. It is important that your recovery plan has a list of people who can support you as you wean off alcohol.

how to ween yourself off alcohol

The goal of tapering down is to make a gradual change while causing less stress on your body, both physically and emotionally. Withdrawal symptoms can vary in severity and depend on many factors, such as drinking history, metabolism, age, medical condition, what other substances or medication you take, and more. Because everyone’s body reacts differently, there’s not a lot of research that proves tapering can decrease the effects of alcohol withdrawal.

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  • Triggers can be external stimuli or internal emotions and situations that prompt the desire to drink.
  • 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.
  • A healthcare professional can provide invaluable guidance on the best ways to safely taper off alcohol.
  • For example, when it comes to the ever-popular suggestion of first-date drinks, mention that you probably won’t be drinking—but that they should free to—before making set plans.
  • If you have 20 or more drinks per day, they suggest one drink per hour the first day, every hour and a half the next, then reducing by 2 drinks per day after that.

Tapering alcohol may be uncomfortable, and there may be subconscious triggers that stimulate the desire to drink alcohol. Stress is a common trigger that makes it hard to modify your alcohol intake. Finding a different, more healthy way to unload stress may go a long way in helping someone succeed in cutting back on their alcohol use. Contact emergency health services if you or someone you know experiences more than one symptom of severe alcohol withdrawal. The time it takes to taper off alcohol varies based on how much a person drinks. Talk to a medical professional if you have any concerns about tapering off alcohol.

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People who try tapering off alcohol won’t have the guided support of medical professionals that they would at inpatient treatment. In contrast, in-patient care can be more beneficial and less expensive in the long-term. The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper offers comprehensive addiction treatment for drug and alcohol addictions and co-occurring mental health conditions.

  • Weaning off alcohol in a safe way can help reduce the severity of some withdrawal symptoms.
  • By taking the time to identify your triggers, you can develop strategies to avoid or manage them, which can help you stay on track with your goals.
  • By implementing these strategies and seeking ongoing support, you can increase your chances of staying sober and preventing relapse.
  • By gradually tapering off alcohol, you can lower your risk for alcohol-related accidents or death.
  • The severity of withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening.

Goals: Why do you want to reduce or quit alcohol?

In conclusion, safely tapering off alcohol is a process that requires careful planning, professional guidance, and strong support. It’s a significant step towards recovery, and while it may be challenging, it’s a journey worth undertaking for improved health and well-being. Guidance for tapering off alcohol can vary, and there’s limited specific advice available. However, some sample tapering schedules suggest reducing alcohol intake by two drinks each day until reaching zero drinks for individuals who drink fewer than 20 standard drinks a day. For those who drink more than 20 drinks a day, the tapering schedule becomes more complex. It’s crucial to consult with a doctor before starting an alcohol taper.

Finally, just because you’ve gotten past the withdrawal phase doesn’t mean you won’t continue to face psychological aspects of addiction—including alcohol cravings and drinking triggers. After prolonged alcohol use, your body can come to rely on alcohol for normal functioning, and suddenly going without it can cause potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms. This phenomenon is often described as “alcohol dependence.” The most common more mild withdrawal symptoms include headaches, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. “It’s hard to go anywhere without someone offering you a drink,” says Leah Young, LCPC, Clinical Manager at Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center. Even if you’re not someone who struggles with alcohol addiction, it can be hard to decrease your alcohol intake.

Take Days Off Drinking

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This is why it’s always best to find some form of long-term support in sobriety. Support groups, from Alcoholics Anonymous to SMART Recovery, are one free way to find a community of people on the same journey. 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. That said, tapering off alcohol doesn’t completely eliminate withdrawal symptoms. Alcohol withdrawal is dangerous and it’s important to be careful throughout the process.

how to ween yourself off alcohol

Same goes for a straight-up cocktail versus a beverage like a spritz or a mixed drink, which has a lower alcohol by volume, or ABV. “It’s really thinking about the ‘why’ — why you’re making the choice and really centering that and being proud of it,” says Carr. In the small intestine, alcohol is easily absorbed into the bloodstream.

Challenges to Weaning Off Alcohol

They can help you navigate the challenges of withdrawal symptoms, develop coping mechanisms, and provide guidance on relapse prevention. Professionals can also monitor your progress, adjust treatment plans as needed, and offer a safe and confidential space for you to share your experiences and concerns. By understanding the impact of alcohol addiction and recognizing the benefits of quitting, individuals can take the first step towards a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life. Seeking support, setting goals, and implementing effective strategies can further aid in the journey to sobriety. People who have alcohol use disorder that goes undiagnosed may have an especially difficult time cutting back on their alcohol consumption.

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