Quitting Drinking Cold Turkey: 7 Myths to Know

From providing support to finding the right treatment, unlock the path to recovery. If you’d like to know more about how we can help you or someone you care for stop drinking safely and sustainably, contact us today to book a consultation. Therapy can help you understand why you drink and learn new habits so you can live a healthy lifestyle that doesn’t rely on alcohol as a crutch.

  1. Remember, quitting alcohol is a courageous step towards a healthier, happier life.
  2. In others, it’s a symptom of the CNS struggling to adapt to the lack of alcohol.
  3. Essentially, when an individual drinks, the brain amplifies certain activities to counterbalance the depressive effect alcohol has on it.
  4. The consequences of quitting alcohol cold turkey can be serious and lead to alcohol withdrawal syndrome, which can be fatal in severe cases.

They can help you decide if it’s the safest way to start your recovery, and they can help you make a taper plan. Most people experience the most https://sober-home.org/ severe symptoms from about 36–72 hours after stopping drinking. Within just a month of not drinking, your body can begin to reap the benefits.

How Long Does Alcohol Withdrawal Last?

The amount of alcohol it takes to cause withdrawal symptoms can vary from person to person. For this reason, you should always talk to your doctor before attempting to quit drinking. Surround yourself with individuals who support your decision to quit drinking alcohol. Inform your close friends and family members about your journey, and ask for their understanding and encouragement. Consider joining support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous, where you can connect with others who have similar experiences and receive ongoing support.

Your liver can start to heal, your risks of heart disease and cancer go down, and you may begin to sleep better. Exploring, in writing, what you find difficult and when you most want to drink can help you notice patterns that offer more insight into your alcohol use. By avoiding alcohol, you’re taking a big step toward improving physical health. As you begin to notice those health benefits, you’ll likely feel more energized and inspired to keep up your progress. You may not need to completely reinvent your life to quit drinking, but making a few changes in your surroundings to help avoid alcohol triggers can make a big difference. Family and friends can provide encouragement and support when you stop drinking.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to quitting drinking. It’s important to find an approach that feels safe and sustainable for you, and to seek professional help if necessary. There are several medications available that have been approved by the FDA for use in treating alcohol addiction. These medications work by either reducing cravings or blocking the effects of alcohol on the brain.

Satisfying hobbies can distract you from wanting to drink, but they also help you relax — something everyone needs to do. What’s most important is looking at your drinking habits and finding a way to cut back that works for you. Maybe you don’t think you depend on alcohol exactly, but you still wonder whether you might be drinking too much.

Myth #7: Quitting Cold Turkey is the Same for Everyone

This may involve medication-assisted treatment, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or other evidence-based approaches to addiction treatment. With the right support and resources, individuals can overcome the challenges of addiction and build a foundation for long-term recovery. It’s not always easy, but it is possible with the right support and resources. This may involve working with a therapist or participating in support groups like AA, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and building a strong support network of friends and family. By working with a therapist or participating in support groups like AA, individuals can gain insight into the root causes of their alcohol abuse and develop healthier coping mechanisms. This may involve addressing past trauma, learning new communication skills, or developing a stronger support system.

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However, certain food groups also have benefits when it comes to helping with the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms and detoxification. You can also get help by reaching out to a professional rehab facility directly, like The Recovery Village. We can leverage our resources and team to help you reduce and eventually end your alcohol use. In cases with severe symptoms, the sufferer may experience convulsions, seizures and other serious medical complications. Without medical intervention, these symptoms can have severe consequences, either in the form of lasting complications or death. Another clue that can be an indication of an unhealthy relationship with alcohol is if you make “rules” around drinking.

Quitting cold turkey doesn’t necessarily mean that you can never drink again. For some people, quitting cold turkey may be the best option, especially if they have a problem with alcohol. However, it’s important to have a plan in place for when you’re ready to reintroduce alcohol into your life.

How Long Does It Take to Taper off Alcohol?

Talk with a healthcare professional if you’re concerned you may experience detox symptoms when quitting drinking or cutting back. Individuals with alcohol addiction and any severe case of AUD should seek medical help and help from addiction specialists. Medical detox is just the first step in alcohol addiction treatment. Without behavioral health interventions that address the causes of addiction, you’re very likely to relapse.

Quitting drinking is a difficult process, and quitting cold turkey can make it even more challenging. Going through withdrawal symptoms can be severe and last for several days, which can be unbearable for many people. It’s important to remember barbiturates pleasurable effects that it’s okay to ask for help and support during this time. You deserve to live a life free from the grips of alcohol addiction. Quitting drinking cold turkey is a courageous decision that can lead to a healthier and more fulfilling life.

However, drinking alcohol temporarily soothes that damaged stomach lining. When a person stops drinking alcohol cold turkey, they’ll likely feel nauseated and may struggle to hold down food. The stomach lining will repair itself over time, but these acute symptoms can be unpleasant. By implementing these tips, you can create a solid foundation for your journey towards sobriety.