The support of family, friends and others in recovery is crucial during this adjustment period. Tapering is meant to reduce the withdrawal symptoms from quitting alcohol, but this isn’t a guarantee. As mentioned above, many people will still experience some level of withdrawal, just to a lesser degree. Some people are facing problems with their health or personal lives which require them to quit immediately. However, for many people with alcohol use disorder, tapering off alcohol is a far better experience than quitting abruptly.
Is it Better to Taper Off Alcohol or Quit “Cold Turkey?”
Alcohol withdrawal occurs when alcohol use is suddenly stopped, removing its suppressing effect. Your brain will still be hyperactive and take about a week to 10 days to readjust. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms are related to the hyperactivity of your brain and will continue until your brain fully adjusts to the absence of alcohol.
Extending the Time Between Drinks
- Sleeping too much can become an unhealthy coping mechanism, but during your detox, it’s okay to sleep as much as possible.
- Remember, the goal is not just to stop drinking but to replace the habit with choices that nourish your body and mind.
- In addition to hydration, consuming a well-balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients to support your body’s healing process.
- We offer a full continuum of care and are an in-network provider for a range of insurance companies, including Aetna, Cigna and America’s Choice.
Our clinicians use a varied approach to treatment for substance use disorder, employing the best of cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy. Motivational interviewing and Twelve Step groups, SMART Recovery, or other forms of peer support meetings can also help. Medical detoxes like those offered by Catalina Behavioral Health through partner facilities locally, allows you to rest assured that you’re in good hands.
- Studies have shown that 13–71% of people undergoing alcohol detox develop withdrawal symptoms.
- It’s important to set realistic goals and seek support from healthcare providers or counselors who can provide guidance and assistance throughout the process.
- Ultimately, you shouldn’t taper off of alcohol unless you’ve checked with your doctor first.
- With physical dependence, your body becomes used to the presence of alcohol in your system and begins to adapt accordingly.
- It is linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including those affecting the mouth, throat, liver, breast, and intestines.
Expert Tips on How to Slowly Detox From Alcohol at Home
Keeping a journal or using a smartphone app to track progress can help provide concrete reminders and maintain motivation 6. Alcohol tapering, the gradual reduction of alcohol intake, presents several challenges, each requiring strategic solutions to ensure a safe and successful journey towards sobriety. One of the key factors in maintaining sobriety is having a strong support system. This can https://ecosober.com/ include friends, family, and individuals who have gone through similar experiences.
Consult a Healthcare Professional First
With quiet corners to reflect and open areas to reconnect, every space supports your journey to recovery. Surrounded by calm, supported by caring professionals, and inspired by the beauty around you, this is where renewal truly begins. Reframe supports you in reducing alcohol consumption and enhancing your well-being.
Fentanyl Rehabilitation and Addiction Treatment in South Florida
Through medical supervision and therapy, individuals can build a strong foundation for a healthier, alcohol-free life. The Haven Detox is a nationally-recognized addiction and mental health treatment provider in Arizona, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Florida, Arkansas, and Puerto Rico. Opting for a nutrient-rich and well-rounded diet can support your recovery and reduce the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. On the other hand, regular exercise, such as walking or jogging, can also help reduce cravings and improve overall well-being. This period of self-reflection can help individuals alcoholism treatment make informed decisions about their alcohol intake and overall health. By understanding and utilizing the right combination of medications and behavioral therapies, one can manage alcohol cravings effectively and navigate the path of recovery more smoothly.
After successfully completing detox, there are additional treatment options at Serenity Lane. There is a residential inpatient treatment program with medical supervision. During rehab, you will have the opportunity to participate in group therapy.
This helps to minimize withdrawal symptoms and make the process more manageable, particularly for individuals who have been consuming alcohol regularly and in higher quantities 3. When it comes to tapering off alcohol safely, seeking support and professional guidance can play a crucial role in your journey towards sobriety. Building a support system and consulting with medical professionals and therapists can provide the necessary guidance, encouragement, and accountability to help you achieve your goals.
- By proactively managing these triggers, you’ll create a supportive environment that makes it easier to wean yourself off alcohol.
- Remember, the goal of this plan is to provide a structured approach that can be adjusted based on individual needs.
- Participating in a support group allows individuals to connect with others who understand the challenges they face.
- Seizures can occur in more than 5 percent of untreated patients during acute alcohol withdrawal.
- When planning a taper schedule, begin by calculating your daily alcohol intake.
People who have alcohol use disorder that goes undiagnosed may have an especially difficult time cutting back on their alcohol consumption. If you’re struggling to stick to a taper or do not trust yourself to moderate your alcohol use, having strict supervision and support can help you meet your recovery goals. When an individual has developed a substance use disorder or dependence on alcohol, stopping its use outright can seem virtually impossible.
Heavy, long-term alcohol consumption can lead to dependence, making it challenging to quit without proper support. Remember, self-care techniques can be beneficial during the withdrawal phase, but it’s essential to seek professional help when necessary. Medical supervision and guidance can ensure your safety and provide support during this critical period. MAT should always be administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional who can prescribe the appropriate medication and monitor its effectiveness.