Alcohol Tapering How to Taper Off Alcohol Safely

The support of family, friends, and others in recovery is crucial during this period of adjustment. Alcohol addiction is characterized by both psychological and physical dependence. Increased tolerance to alcohol, withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, and continued use despite negative consequences indicate potential addiction. If you’re consistently thinking about alcohol, struggling to control your drinking, or experiencing physical symptoms when abstaining, it might be time to seek help.

Throughout his recovery, James has used his personal story to help make a difference in the lives of others. Over the years he grew into becoming an advocate for people in recovery or seeking recovery from substance use disorders. James is a CCAR Recovery Coach and believes in developing meaningful relationships, and providing highly individualized therapy and client care. In 2017, James had the opportunity to combine his business experience and passion for recovery to start The Freedom Center.

The Benefit of Medical Detox for Tapering off Alcohol

With strong ties to Victory Christian Church and the 12-step community, Federico shares an amazing personal story of redemption and long-term recovery. Mr. Douglas’ experience, strength, and hope inspires those in our program, and prepares them for the real-world journey of recovery. With a robust foundation in 12-step philosophy, Federico can not only educate the clients on the model, but also integrate the tried-and-true principles in a more personal, clinical setting. Vince is a licensed social worker who treats clients recovering from substance use disorders. Vince received his bachelor’s degree in Family Science from The University of Maryland, and received his master’s degree in Social Work from The Catholic University of America.

What he has found to be most rewarding about working in the addictions treatment field is being able to help suffering addicts and alcoholics to realize their fullest potential. Always remember that if the taper is not working for you or if you are having major withdrawal that it is safest to check into a medical detox because alcohol withdrawal can kill you. In addition, social pressures can make it hard to quit drinking, especially if your friends or family also drink heavily. Quitting drinking can feel very isolating, making it even more difficult to do on your own at home without medical support.

Have A Strong Support System

If you recognize yourself when reading through this list, it is time to seek the help you deserve. Judy is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Maryland, and a National Certified Counselor. She earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Counseling from Johns Hopkins University with an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland. She has served in both clinical and leadership positions in a number of roles, in inpatient and outpatient settings, as a Primary Therapist and Clinical Supervisor.

• Substituting a prescription drug for alcohol should only happen with the help of a medical professional.
• Quitting with proper medical supervision may be more important than whether you stop gradually or all at once.
• If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms consistent with DT, call 911.
• The second situation involves counting the drinks you consume daily and switching them for a beverage with lower alcohol content, such as beer.
• Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol and our in-app Toolkit gives you the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
• Your doctor will be able to develop a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

Sometimes, people think that if their symptoms are mild, they don’t need medical help. Unfortunately, alcohol withdrawal symptoms can worsen quickly, and they can include agitation and hallucinations that make it more difficult to seek help. For this reason, it is best to seek medical advice on whether you should taper at home or under medical observation.

Tapering off Alcohol: What You Need To Know

Tapering off alcohol to reduces potential withdrawal symptoms and decreases the likelihood of a potentially fatal withdrawal from alcohol in individuals who consume alcohol on a regular basis. Whether you feel like you drink too much alcohol, or you have an alcohol abuse issue, quitting drinking cold turkey can be dangerous. Knowing how to safely taper off alcohol can make all the difference in how successful you are in quitting drinking. Currently enrolled in a master’s program for Social Work, he is committed to expanding his knowledge and providing comprehensive care.

If you’re having trouble quitting alcohol, many resources are available to help. You can talk to your doctor about medications that may help ease the process. If you’re worried about your drinking habits, and they might be affecting your health or destroying relationships with loved ones, consider seeking an alcohol treatment program. Nonetheless, quitting cold turkey might be the only way for people who don’t have an alcohol use disorder (AUD). In this case, having a strong support system, attending AA meetings, and talking with an addiction counselor is key to a successful detox process. This is a highly personal decision, which can be made through self-reflection, and with the support of a medical professional and your peers.

What to Expect in Alcohol Detox and Withdrawal

A doctor may prescribe a benzodiazepine as part of the tapering process. All of these withdrawal symptoms are common during acute alcohol withdrawal syndrome. For example, https://goodmenproject.com/everyday-life-2/top-5-tips-to-consider-when-choosing-a-sober-house-for-living/ depression could cause suicidal thoughts, and eating poorly can weaken your immune system. Maybe the negative consequences of your drinking problem are piling up.

I now enjoy working with others and helping them get through the hard times of early recovery. I still engage in a daily program of recovery myself and also enjoy fitness and health, nature, sports, horror movies, video games, cooking and spending time with family and friends. I have been on both sides of the fence, active addiction and recovery, and continue to choose recovery every day.

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Substituting a prescription drug for alcohol should only happen with the help of a medical professional. No one should ever attempt a substitution taper with prescription medication unless their doctor specifically prescribed it for that purpose in a medical detox program. Slowly decreasing the amount you Top 5 Tips to Consider When Choosing a Sober House for Living drink over time can spare your body from withdrawal symptoms. This is because drinking heavily over a long period can cause your body to become physically dependent on alcohol. With physical dependence, your body becomes used to the presence of alcohol in your system and begins to adapt accordingly.

• For people with moderate to severe alcohol addiction, utilizing an alcohol detox center is always the safest option.
• Another important factor affecting the tapering duration is the presence of alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
• Let them know your plan, your progress, and how withdrawals are going for you.
• This is why it’s essential to surround yourself with the right support system, such as a 12-step community that can help you maintain your progress.
• In particular, it alters the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

This situation calls for a reflection on your alcohol use and its implications on your life and the people around you. Alcohol use is widespread in social settings, making it difficult to recognize when casual drinking evolves into a problem. This issue is crucial to address, as early recognition and intervention can substantially influence the recovery journey. Tapering off alcohol is not the most beneficial option for everyone.