This approach helps to break the habit of constant alcohol consumption and promotes a healthier relationship with alcohol. By tapering off, individuals can gradually break the cycle of alcohol dependence and reduce the chances of experiencing intense cravings https://thepaloaltodigest.com/top-5-advantages-of-staying-in-a-sober-living-house/ or relapses. It provides a more realistic and sustainable path towards sobriety, increasing the chances of long-term success. Tapering off is often recommended for individuals who have been consuming alcohol regularly and in higher quantities.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
When you quit drinking, you should also seek medical advice about any alcohol withdrawal symptoms you experience. This includes early symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, such as mild tremors and anxiety. The reason for this is that alcohol withdrawal symptoms can quickly snowball and worsen. Mild anxiety, for example, can turn into overwhelming agitation or even hallucinations. When symptoms become that serious, it can be difficult to seek help.
- The condition encompasses a spectrum from mild to severe, with various physical and psychological symptoms that signal its presence.
- Smaller drinks with a higher percentage of alcohol are stronger than the same size drink containing a lower-proof liquor.
- Some withdrawal is normal, and some symptoms can be potentially life-threatening.
- Consuming a lighter alcoholic drink like beer also makes it easier for someone to stay hydrated throughout the taper.
Why Do You Experience Withdrawal Symptoms?
Let them know your plan, your progress, and how withdrawals are going for you. However, certain food groups also have benefits when it comes to helping with the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms Sober House and detoxification. As such, there is only limited guidance available about the best ways to taper. Within just a month of not drinking, your body can begin to reap the benefits.
What to Do if You Lapse or Relapse
However, medical treatment is necessary to treat major symptoms of withdrawal. The purpose of tapering off alcohol is to avoid major withdrawal symptoms so you can achieve sobriety safely. The time it takes to taper will depend on how long you’ve been drinking, how much you’ve been drinking and a variety of personal factors.
Sample Alcohol Tapering Schedules
Your liver can start to heal, your risks of heart disease and cancer go down, and you may begin to sleep better. 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. It’s common to have a difficult time when making big changes, but good self-care practices can help you manage overwhelming feelings and take care of your mind and body. Research shows that most people believe that drinking can make them feel better. However, when alcohol makes up part of your typical routine, drinking can become something of an automatic response, especially when you feel stressed or overwhelmed.
- All the same, “a quick drink” often turns into three or four drinks.
- These symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe health issues, making the tapering process difficult without proper guidance and support.
- Cutting down your alcohol intake may not be as easy as it sounds.
- A popular way to taper off alcohol is to gradually reduce the number of drinks you consume over a period of time.
- Socially, alcohol addiction can strain relationships and lead to conflicts with family, friends, and colleagues.
How to Talk to Someone about Your Alcohol or Drug Use
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. If you’re struggling with severe alcohol addiction, a medical detox program is your likely best option for tapering off alcohol safely. But if you still have control over your drinking and want to drink less, you may be able to self-taper. Tapering gradually lowers the amount of alcohol that you use over time. This lessens the severity of withdrawal symptoms, as there is not an abrupt or dramatic change.