Author: James Anderson

Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal: Timeline, Warning Signs, and Safety Measures

You might run into obstacles along the way that tempt you to drink. Keep in mind the reasons you chose to cut back on or quit alcohol. At the end of the day, one of the most important tools you have at your disposal is self-compassion.

1. You may also consider joining an online support group to help you feel less alone.
2. That said, If you’ve been drinking excessively, then stopping drinking cold turkey can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
3. You should talk to a doctor about the safest way to detox if you experience any withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking.
4. Research shows people who have a supportive social network are more likely to remain alcohol-free after withdrawal.

Your body works hard to keep your brain in a more awake state and to keep your nerves talking to one another. You should start by determining how much alcohol you drink per day in terms of standard drinks. Nanci Stockwell of Advanced Recovery Systems discusses the risks of detoxing at home and the benefits of detoxing from alcohol and other drugs in a safe environment. By Sarah Bence, OTR/LSarah Bence, OTR/L, is an occupational therapist and freelance writer. She specializes in a variety of health topics including mental health, dementia, celiac disease, and endometriosis. There are many support options available that can help guide you through alcohol withdrawal, as well as abstaining from alcohol after withdrawal.

Risks and Complications

Late symptoms begin between two and four days after the last drink, and they usually include changes in heart rate, breathing and blood pressure. Serious symptoms caused by delirium tremens include hallucination and seizure. Millions of people join support groups to help stop drinking and stay stopped.

As you begin to notice those health benefits, you’ll likely feel more energized and inspired to keep up your progress. Turner notes the importance of bringing along a trusted support person when attending events that involve alcohol. It’s often easier to turn down a drink when you don’t have to do it alone. Family and friends can provide encouragement and support when you stop drinking. By opening up about your relationship with alcohol, you might also encourage others to explore their own drinking habits.

Crystal Raypole has previously worked as a writer and editor for GoodTherapy. Her fields of interest include Asian languages and literature, Japanese translation, cooking, natural sciences, sex positivity, and mental health. In particular, she’s committed to helping decrease stigma around mental health issues. It’s possible to develop a better relationship with alcohol and make more mindful, informed choices about drinking without total sobriety.

For people who experience hallucinations as part of alcohol withdrawal, these may begin in the 12- to 24-hour time frame. It can be helpful to make a plan ahead of time for how to handle a relapse. For example, some people choose to write a list of reasons why they want to stop drinking alcohol, and revisit the list to remind themselves after a relapse. You may want to speak with a loved one or therapist about a strategy to prevent relapses from happening. Avoid people who may encourage you to drink alcohol or may not support your decision to stop.

Care at Mayo Clinic

All the same, “a quick drink” often turns into three or four drinks. When you’re having a good time, you find it hard to stop, especially in the company of friends having the same amount. This stage typically starts 3–5 years after you’ve stopped drinking.

For people who experience mild alcohol withdrawal symptoms, there are safe ways to detox at home. People who experience tremors, shakes or confusion when they quit drinking should consider medically supervised detox. You should talk to a doctor about the safest way to detox if you experience any withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking. When they suddenly quit drinking, the brain continues its hyperactivity, but alcohol no longer suppresses the effects. This can cause seizures and delirium tremens, a severe form of withdrawal marked by tremors and hallucinations.

Severe Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms can quickly go from a bad hangover to a serious medical situation. However, try not to have too many firm expectations, as symptoms can continue for multiple weeks in some people. Individuals should be prepared to be uncomfortable during this period and have medical help available if needed. This is the period in which delirium tremens is most likely to occur, which requires immediate medical attention.

Letting others know about your choice to stop drinking may help motivate you to stick with your decision. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Combining therapy with support groups can greatly improve your odds of success.

Behavioral health treatment for alcohol problems is often (but not always) covered by insurance. In the United States, most states have low-cost or free rehabilitation programs for those who are uninsured. Research shows people who have a supportive social network are more likely to remain alcohol-free after withdrawal. Those with a wider circle of support have a better chance of staying sober. People who drink daily or almost every day should not be left alone for the first few days after stopping alcohol.

Studies show support groups play an instrumental role in helping people develop healthy social networks that result in continued sobriety. To stop drinking alcohol, you first need to understand your relationship with drinking. From there, you may need social support, consistent self-care, and new routines that can help redirect your mind. During the recovery stage, it’s not uncommon to feel temporarily worse. For some people, AUD has hurt their relationships, careers, health, finances, self-esteem, and other aspects of their lives.