How to Wean Off Alcohol & Safely Taper Drinking

It is important to note that prescription medication should not be used for a substitution taper unless it has been prescribed as part of a medical https://ecosoberhouse.com/ detox program. Quitting alcohol cold turkey is not recommended and can be dangerous. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that leads to an increase in brain neurotransmitters that slow down your brain’s functions, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

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Enter “sober-curious,” a trend that’s about bringing a more mindful approach to drinking. It encompasses being more intentional about when and how much you drink to improve your health and well-being. Anyone can be sober-curious and make positive changes to their drinking habits, whether heroin addiction that means you stop drinking entirely or just cut back a little. Jeanette Hu, AMFT, based in California, is a former daily drinker, psychotherapist, and Sober Curiosity Guide.

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• This is why you should taper off alcohol, or use a prescribed medication like benzodiazepines, during detox3.
• AUD makes it difficult to control alcohol use — it may seem like the alcohol is controlling you.
• Essentially, tapering provides less intense withdrawal symptoms but over a longer amount of time.
• Their encouragement can help you stay motivated and hold you accountable for sticking to your plan.

It can mean more time for your other interests, and even new interests. More time to meet new people, catch up with old friends and try new things. Tapering can be a long process that takes weeks or even months to finish. Although it is possible to taper at home, having medical supervision and assistance can ensure a successful taper.

Cons of Tapering off Alcohol

It can be a particularly helpful way to help you get a clearer understanding of your drinking habits and your relationship with alcohol. It’s a 10-question screening test that gives you research-backed, personalized advice for quitting or reducing your intake of alcohol. However, tapering can be dangerous if you have severe AUD, leading to uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. If you start noticing these symptoms, contact a medical professional immediately. If you’ve been drinking for a long weaning off alcohol time, tapering off can cause withdrawal symptoms. Getting professional help can mitigate harmful withdrawal symptoms and ensure success.

A lakefront oasis providing a continuum of personalized addiction treatment surrounded by scenic views with private rooms, luxury amenities, and group outings. Attempting to stop drinking “cold turkey” is not only dangerous, but could also cause serious implications or be fatal. Another clue that can be an indication of an unhealthy relationship with alcohol is if you make “rules” around drinking. A sober life doesn’t have to mean more time at home as you try to block out triggers.

• For those who consume more than 20 drinks a day, the tapering schedule becomes more complex and should be undertaken with professional guidance.
• She supports individuals who long for a better relationship with alcohol, helping them learn to drink less without living less.
• A residential program for men with alcohol and substance use disorders, providing comprehensive, evidence-based care with a gender-specific approach.
• Find an accountability partner or someone you can call to keep you on track when you want to drink.
• Sleeping too much can become an unhealthy coping mechanism, but during your detox, it’s okay to sleep as much as possible.

For example, if you normally drink 6 glasses of wine each night, you can try reducing that to 5 glasses of wine a night. After several days of 5 glasses of wine, you can reduce that down to 4. Eventually, after a period of time, you will have tapered down to zero drinks. If you’re interested in medication-assisted treatment, medication to curb cravings can be a helpful tool for reducing your consumption.

• You may even ask your friends and family not to drink while around you.
• In some cases, a benzodiazepine regimen may be used to replace the body’s alcohol needs during tapering.
• That’s why it’s vital to have support while tapering off alcohol.
• Tapering is the process of gradually weaning off alcohol rather than quitting cold turkey.
• If you need to taper in the first place, you have already proven that you can’t drink like a normal person.

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As you begin your alcohol tapering process, talk to someone you trust about your plan. Consider sharing your process with a friend or family member so they can offer helpful support. Alcohol withdrawal occurs when you stop using alcohol after a prolonged period of heavy use. Alcohol withdrawal is the most dangerous form of substance withdrawal, creating unpleasant symptoms that can be potentially deadly for those with more severe symptoms.