Alcohol can dehydrate the body, so it’s important to replenish fluids by drinking water regularly. Hydration helps support overall bodily functions and can alleviate some withdrawal symptoms 4. Seeking help and support is a crucial step in safely weaning off alcohol. Joining support groups can be immensely beneficial for individuals looking to quit drinking alcohol.
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How To Gradually Stop Drinking
Attempting to stop drinking “cold turkey” is not only dangerous, but could also cause serious implications or be fatal. Moreover, substituting one kind of beverage for another does not help you taper off alcohol if you consume the same number of standard drinks as you usually have. For example, one 12-ounce can of beer contains roughly the same amount of alcohol as a 5-ounce glass of wine or a mixed drink containing 1.5 ounces of alcohol.
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. The time it takes to wean off alcohol depends on the person’s individual circumstances, including how much they drink and for how long. It’s important to take a gradual approach to avoid severe withdrawal symptoms. A healthcare professional can help develop a personalized plan for weaning off alcohol safely.
- Choosing to taper off alcohol is an admirable decision and a step in the right direction.
- Finally, finding a therapist or a recovery coach can help you develop new coping mechanisms and move forward in your life.
- The kindling effect is crucial to consider when deciding between tapering and cold turkey methods.
- It’s always best to consult a physician on the best strategy, especially if you drink heavily.
- Tapering involves gradually and progressively reducing your alcohol consumption over time.
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. Research has shown that professional help improves your ability to overcome an addiction to alcohol or cut back if you have found it difficult. The most common research technique among those surveyed is an internet search (61%), followed by asking a doctor or medical professional (55%).
Medical evaluation
According to a study conducted by the Priory Group, participants who gave up alcohol for a month witnessed a decrease in liver fat content by 15%. Improved liver function is crucial as it plays a vital role in detoxifying the body. Medications like benzodiazepines (such as diazepam or lorazepam) and anticonvulsants (like gabapentin) are often used during alcohol withdrawal to help manage symptoms and prevent seizures.
Understanding Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)
Alcohol depresses your nervous system2, so your body creates more receptors for neurotransmitters, or messengers, to stimulate the nervous system. In Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she was part of a psycho-social research lab. She is the Content Manager and Editor at Recovery.com, creating informational video resources on behavioral health. “The role of GABAA receptors in mediating the effects of alcohol in the central nervous system.” Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience, July 28, 2003. Our online health insurance verification system will estimate your in-network and out-of-network deductibles, coinsurance percentages and out-of-pocket maximums.
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Medically assisted detoxification (detox) is an inpatient program that keeps you stabilized during alcohol withdrawals. Staffed by medical professionals, these programs offer 24-hour monitoring so you always have support if any complications arise. Choose activities you enjoy, such as walking, cycling, swimming, or yoga, and aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. However, it’s important to listen to your body and not overexert yourself. If you have any concerns about exercising during the weaning process, consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.
Direct tapering involves gradually reducing the amount of alcohol consumed each day. Sometimes, they may wait more than a day or cut out more than one drink daily. Still, this approach involves removing drinks https://soberhome.net/maverick-house-overview/ on a regular, scheduled basis.
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The Recovery Village Ridgefield medical detox center in Vancouver, WA, is a fully staffed rehab facility designed to help you wean off alcohol in comfort. We Maverick house sober living offer 16 detox beds and around-the-clock medical care provided by a multidisciplinary team of addiction experts. The first step in developing a tapering plan is to honestly assess your current alcohol consumption levels. This will help you establish a baseline from which to start reducing your intake. It’s important to be realistic about your drinking habits and not underestimate the amount of alcohol you consume.
Depending on how much alcohol you drink to start with, the amount of time an alcohol weaning schedule takes may vary. For example, those who drink more heavily may need more time to taper than those who drink less alcohol. Further, if you start to develop alcohol withdrawal symptoms during the taper, your doctor may instruct you to pause or slow the taper as a result.
- It’s important to find a support group that aligns with your needs and values.
- Planning ahead for these obstacles greatly increases your likelihood of success.
- There are also a number of anti-craving medications to help you avoid drinking again, or even help with your tapering process.
- It is always recommended to seek professional medical help in these cases to ensure safety and proper care during the withdrawal process.
- We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals.
The Recovery Village Columbus Drug, Alcohol and Mental Health Rehab specializes in compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your needs. Reducing the amount of the chosen substance consumed daily is known as a direct taper, but it may not be effective for everyone. It is only advisable to direct taper if the preferred drink is beer with a low alcohol percentage. Discover the benefits, support, and triumphs on your journey to seek joy and sobriety. Keeping a journal or using a tracking app can be helpful in recording your alcohol consumption accurately.
