How To Taper Off Alcohol

Dr. Streem suggests starting with the World Health Organization’s Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). 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.

Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or sober living houses can help you get connected with peers who are going through the same journey as you are. A final strategy to assist with an alcohol taper is to get a good network of peer support. Before you begin an alcohol taper, a little preparation can go a long way, especially when it involves handling your triggers and tracking how much you drink. Always start with a professional consultation with your doctor.

Tapering Off vs. Cold Turkey

Although you can use methods to taper off alcohol at home, the best way to taper is to talk to a doctor. They can monitor your intake and adjust it accordingly to reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms. For some people who consume alcohol, tapering just doesn’t work.

One potential way to quit drinking is through tapering, which involves slowly reducing your alcohol intake over time. In medical detox, doctors and nurses provide around-the-clock care while helping you detox from alcohol. We offer a full continuum of care and https://ecosoberhouse.com/ are an in-network provider for a range of insurance companies, including Aetna, Cigna and America’s Choice. Contact us today to learn more about the insurance we accept and find an alcohol addiction treatment program that can work well for your situation.

Preparing To Wean Off Alcohol

Smaller drinks with a higher percentage of alcohol are stronger than the same size drink containing a lower-proof liquor. You can also take break days, where you drink the same amount as the previous day to sort of level yourself off. For example, if you notice your tremors are getting pretty bad three days in, drink taper off alcohol the same amount you drank on the third day for the following day. Try not to do this for too many days, though, or you may get stuck at that point. If you are already at risk of heart attacks or strokes because of conditions such as obesity or preexisting high blood pressure, monitor your blood pressure carefully.

• Before you start your detox, ensure you have enough alcohol on hand to last you a few days.
• If you find it difficult to cut down on your number of drinks per day, try making your drinks weaker by using less alcohol per drink.
• Alcohol is the third-leading preventable cause of mortality in the United States, with approximately 95,000 people dying from alcohol-related causes each year.
• Cutting back or completely stopping alcohol consumption is challenging, even if you are not at the point of addiction.
• If you regularly drink a handle of liquor (around 40 standard drinks) or more per day, please seek professional help.