How to Wean Yourself Off Alcohol Safely: Tips and Strategies

weaning off alcohol

Additionally, mixed drinks may contain sugar or other additives that could exacerbate withdrawal symptoms and should be avoided during the taper. Some people cut out one drink per day, with gains made each following day. This can be a sudden taper that leaves you without a drink in the first two weeks of quitting alcohol use. Establishing new habits and routines, and dealing with the underlying causes of your drinking habits, are essential to lasting recovery.

Seek Support from Friends and Family

  • Planning ahead for these obstacles greatly increases your likelihood of success.
  • Each person’s alcohol metabolism is different, and even though a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .085 is considered legal intoxication, a BAC lower than .08 may adversely affect some people.
  • If you have trouble controlling how much you drink or experience significant alcohol cravings, you may need professional help instead of trying to taper your alcohol use at home.
  • However, for many people with alcohol use disorder, tapering off alcohol is a far better experience than quitting abruptly.

Our alumni program creates a community of individuals who understand the challenges of addiction and recovery, offering opportunities for mutual support, growth, and accountability. Because tapering is not the recommended way to stop using alcohol, there is no recommended tapering schedule. If you plan to taper, you must create a schedule that is right for you.

weaning off alcohol

The Benefits of a Structured Environment During Recovery

He tailors treatment plans to meet individual needs, fostering healing and growth. Outside of work, he finds solace in outdoor activities like hiking and woodworking. With his expertise, experience, and passion for helping others, David is an asset to the Freedom Center, empowering individuals on his recovery journey.

weaning off alcohol

How long does detox take for alcohol?

weaning off alcohol

For Drug rehabilitation example, individuals who drink fewer than 20 standard drinks a day might reduce their alcohol intake by two drinks each day until reaching zero drinks. For those who consume more than 20 drinks a day, the tapering schedule becomes more complex and should be undertaken with professional guidance. However, remember that every individual is different, and what works for one person may not be safe for everyone.

weaning off alcohol

Walk-In Alcohol Rehab Centers in South Florida

weaning off alcohol

It may be best to cut a single drink every few days to give your body and mind more time to adjust to the decrease in intake without triggering withdrawal symptoms from alcohol. Catalina Behavioral Health offers help for anyone who is thinking about quitting alcohol for good. weaning off alcohol We can make you more comfortable with around-the-clock care as you go through alcohol withdrawal in a supervised setting.

  • I’ve also heard of people successfully stopping by reducing their moderate drinking (8-10 a day) to 5-6 a day for a couple days, and then quitting entirely.
  • Tapering refers to gradually reducing alcohol intake rather than stopping abruptly.
  • For people with moderate to severe alcohol addiction, utilizing an alcohol detox center is always the safest option.
  • These lifestyle changes contribute to a supportive environment for your recovery journey.