How To Cut Back on Drinking Alcohol Without Quitting

If you are tapering off of alcohol, the time it takes depends entirely on how long the taper is and how well you adhere to it. One of the reasons that medical professionals tend to avoid tapers is that they can be difficult to follow and may be more likely to be unsuccessful than faster options. Slowly decreasing the amount you 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.

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• On the other hand, moderation may be a more attainable goal for some individuals as a first step towards abstinence.
• Symptoms of tapering are similar to mild or moderate withdrawal symptoms, which include the following.
• It’s often accompanied by increased tolerance (needing more alcohol to achieve the same effect) and physical dependence, leading to withdrawal symptoms when alcohol use is reduced or stopped.
• Programs such as inpatient or outpatient rehab, medical detox, individual or family therapy and support groups are available.

This method is safer than abruptly stopping alcohol consumption, especially when switching from hard liquor to beer. If you or someone you know needs help detoxing from alcohol, The Recovery Village Ridgefield Drug and Alcohol Rehab is here for you. Contact us today to speak with a representative and begin on the road to lasting addiction recovery. A standard drink is a term used because different alcoholic beverages have different concentrations of alcohol, giving you varying amounts of alcohol depending on the fluid you drink. This can equate to as much as a full bottle of beer or less than two tablespoons of whisky.

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Alongside professional help, developing healthy habits, avoiding triggers, and seeking support from friends and family can contribute to a successful alcohol tapering process. Utilizing resources such as the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) can provide additional guidance and support throughout your journey. Medications can be used to assist individuals in reducing or stopping alcohol consumption and managing withdrawal symptoms. These medications are often combined with psychosocial support for more effective treatment.

Symptoms are most severe around day 34, and the total process can last for 2 to 10 days. Attempting to stop drinking “cold turkey” is not only dangerous, but could also cause serious implications or be fatal. If you do relapse, talk to your therapist or addiction treatment specialist who can help you quickly get back on track and prevent it from happening again. Before you attempt to quit alcohol, it is critically important that you first consult with a medical professional.

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You can also get help by reaching out to a professional sober house rehab facility directly, like The Recovery Village. We can leverage our resources and team to help you reduce and eventually end your alcohol use. However, even the best-designed tapers can put you at risk for alcohol withdrawal syndrome. For this reason, you should never start an alcohol taper before clearing with your doctor. Deciding to quit drinking and following through isn’t just about willpower. Many other factors go into play with these difficult and trying scenarios.

These numbers highlight the urgent need for effective strategies to mitigate the harm caused by alcohol. Our programs are designed to treat alcohol use disorder effectively and with dignity. If you or your loved one is suffering, contact us to learn more about a brighter, sober tomorrow. To lower your alcohol consumption, try to stick to only one alcoholic drink per hour.

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They can be effective when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes therapy and support groups 3. Regular physical activity serves as a positive distraction and stress-reliever for individuals trying to reduce their alcohol intake. Engaging in activities such as walking, jogging, swimming, or participating in sports not only promotes overall health but also helps divert attention away from alcohol cravings. Physical activity can contribute to a sense of accomplishment and well-being, making it an essential component of the recovery journey. These medications, such as Acamprosate, Disulfiram, Naltrexone, and Nalmefene, have different mechanisms of action to prevent relapses or limit alcohol intake 5.

Delirium tremens is characterized by an altered mental state, significant autonomic dysfunction, and vital sign abnormalities. Symptoms may include visual hallucinations, tachycardia, hypertension, hyperthermia, agitation, and diaphoresis. Delirium tremens can occur up to seven days after alcohol cessation and may last even longer 2. Although most people recover fully from alcohol withdrawal, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks and complications that may arise.

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• ‘ from types, symptoms, impacts on health, to available help and resources.
• Surrounding yourself with other people who are sober will dramatically improve your chances of staying away from alcohol.
• Ideally, your support network will include mental health, medical, and addiction treatment professionals, as well as friends and family.

Other people use medication-assisted treatment, which can help reduce alcohol cravings as you cut back. Lastly, engaging in alcohol therapy can also make a major difference in your healing journey. A therapist will work with you to create a personalized plan for cutting back and provide ongoing guidance and accountability.

• However, the process of weaning off alcohol alone, known as alcohol detoxification, can be hazardous and often counterproductive.
• “In some ways, not drinking at all is easier because you take the decision-making out of it,” says Treloar Padovano.
• Healthcare professionals can assess the individual’s condition, provide guidance on the weaning-off process, and monitor for any complications that may arise.
• Understanding the global impact of alcohol consumption and the need for action is a crucial step toward implementing effective strategies to reduce harm and promote healthier behaviors.

According to MedLinePlus, delirium tremens is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal. Part of an alcohol tapering plan should include ways you’ll tend to yourself during times when you have a craving or a bad day. Planning for social situations where you know there will be alcohol can help you navigate how to respond. Alcohol Tapering can help people start their recovery journey, including those with goals of stopping completely or curbing drinking.

In addition to these strategies, it’s important to build a support system and consider seeking professional guidance to increase your chances of successfully tapering off alcohol. With the right strategies and support in place, you can take control of your relationship with alcohol and pave the way for a brighter, alcohol-free future. When considering tapering off as a method, it’s important to remember that everyone’s journey is unique. Consulting with a healthcare professional or addiction specialist can provide personalized guidance and support throughout the process. Once alcohol is stopped, your brain continues to be hyperactive until it readjusts to the absence of alcohol. This process is often referred to as detox and often causes withdrawal symptoms.

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