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As previously mentioned, there are situations in which quitting alcohol can be dangerous. That doesn’t mean it isn’t possible to quit on your own, but it’s best to have a doctor’s advice about how your body will react—especially if you drink heavily. If you think you have a more severe habit, you should either cut back before quitting completely, or seek medical supervision for withdrawal. It may be possible for you to moderate or quit on your own, but it is dangerous to undergo withdrawal without supervision. It’s best to speak to a doctor first, especially if you have a heavier drinking habit and you expect more severe withdrawal symptoms.
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 https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/alcohol-vs-drugs-comparison-of-addictions/ move forward in your life. The main downside of tapering off is that it requires discipline. You’ll need to stick with gradual reduction every day and not revert to previous levels of consumption, otherwise it won’t work.
Examine alcohol health effects
But that advice changes if you’re living with alcohol use disorder. This condition can be mild, moderate, or severe, depending on the number of symptoms you have. Alcohol use disorder frequently occurs alongside other mental health conditions. Pre-existing mental health conditions can sometimes lead people to turn to alcohol to cope with their symptoms. In other cases, long-term alcohol exposure can increase a person’s risk of developing a psychiatric illness.
If you’re having trouble doing the same things you used to do, try new hobbies to fill your time. Join a gym, learn a new skill, or find sober social groups you can enjoy. You’re likely to be in situations where you’ll be offered a drink.
What to expect from your doctor
It can be dangerous to stop drinking too quickly without proper help. We can set ourselves up for success by the way we head into each day. In the morning, clear your mind and imagine how you’d like to feel. Develop a calming morning ritual that includes a few minutes of mindfulness. This can help you get connected with your sobriety or moderation goal. Then, review your schedule for the day and identify any events or environments that are potentially triggering.
- Individuals should be prepared to be uncomfortable during this period and have someone on call in case medical help is needed.
- Helping people with drug or alcohol dependence feel valued, and that they have a worthwhile life to live outside of their addiction, often plays a big role in recovery.
- Over time, large amounts of alcohol blunt your immune system and your body’s ability to repair itself.
- Still, for some people, disulfiram remains an effective choice.
- The best schedule varies based on how much you drink each day and your overall health.
- Many argue they should be totally avoided as they are dangerous triggers, and only remind people of what they’re missing, thereby dragging them onto that slippery slope.
Once the initial symptoms of withdrawal have subsided, you may find that you have more energy than you did before you stopped drinking. This is because alcohol is a depressant, so how to stop drinking at home when it’s no longer in your system, your body has more energy to work with. One of the best things about giving up alcohol is that you may find yourself feeling happier overall.
What Is Mindful Drinking?
You might reach for alcohol when you’re really just thirsty, says Crews. Drink a cup of soothing tea or a tall glass of water before you imbibe—once your thirst is quenched, you may not feel the need for as much—or any—alcohol. A standard glass of wine is 5 ounces, which contains about 12% alcohol. A shot of distilled spirits like vodka is 1.5 ounces and equally 40% alcohol. One 12-ounce can of beer contains about 5% alcohol, and a standard glass of sherry is 3 to 4 ounces and contains about 17% alcohol, according to the NIAAA. If you identify with any of the scenarios above, try the expert tips below for reducing your alcohol consumption (or even eliminating it altogether).
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