There are several ways to alleviate symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, including staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, and eating a healthy diet. Additionally, engaging in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can worsen withdrawal symptoms. Therapy can be an effective treatment option for alcoholism and alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Group therapy, in particular, can help you connect with others who are going through similar experiences and provide you with support and guidance. Stress management techniques, like acupuncture, may also help manage withdrawal symptoms. The severity of alcohol withdrawal shakes can vary depending on several factors, such as the amount and duration of alcohol consumption, age, and overall health status.
Who Experiences Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms?
I still remember that one of the last times we spoke, she told me she was proud of my recovery. Mom wanted no parent to suffer from the sorrow and anguish of losing a child, so in 2002, she helped me establish my first treatment center business. “I will be supportive of your recovery but I will not enable your addiction,” she was fond of saying.
Decreased Risk of AUD
Some people avoid medically supervised rehab because they prefer natural remedies for alcohol withdrawal. Slowly tapering off alcohol is the safest way to naturally overcome alcohol withdrawal, and many at-home remedies can help you cope with mild withdrawal symptoms. However, medical treatment is necessary to treat major symptoms of withdrawal. Since alcohol is relatively easy to get, legal to consume for those 21 and older, and is somewhat socially acceptable, it is one of the most widely-used intoxicating substances. Yes, there are several medications that can help alleviate alcohol withdrawal symptoms, including benzodiazepines and antipsychotics. However, these medications should only be taken https://ecosoberhouse.com/ under the supervision of a medical professional, as they can be addictive and have potentially dangerous side effects.
Ready to make a change?
If you or someone you know is experiencing alcohol withdrawal symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. The best way to prevent or stop alcohol withdrawal shakes is to enlist the help of a drug and alcohol detox facility. During inpatient detox, doctors and nurses provide around-the-clock care, IV hydration, nutritional support, prescription medications, and therapeutic counseling services. This comprehensive medical and psychiatric care can help you detox safely and comfortably.
- For help quitting, resources are available from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) or the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).
- Music you used to love may no longer have the same draw while you are using alcohol.
- It is recommended to eat foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
- You may want to speak with a loved one or therapist about a strategy to prevent relapses from happening.
- Most people recover from alcohol withdrawal within a week, but people with severe dependency may experience withdrawal for multiple weeks.
Depressed After Quitting Drinking? This Is Why It Happens.
The alcohol detox process can become dangerous; without warning sudden serious health risks can occur. In fact, individuals with a long history of high alcohol consumption should not attempt detoxing from alcohol on their own. Instead, seek out a supervised medical detox where trained detox professionals can provide support and medical interventions as needed. Without this support, the symptoms may become so uncomfortable that the individual relapses back to drinking or the symptoms can become life-threatening. Medications are often used to manage the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal safely.
How To Deal With Alcohol Withdrawal
- These involuntary movements are a physical manifestation of the body’s response to the absence of alcohol after a period of heavy and prolonged consumption.
- By prioritizing self-care and seeking appropriate support, individuals can reduce the risk of experiencing these symptoms and improve their overall well-being in their quest for sobriety.
- Some people may relapse, or drink alcohol again, to relieve the symptoms.
- Alcohol enhances the effects of GABA, which is why people feel relaxed when they drink.
- Tapering off alcohol may complicate other medical conditions or co-occurring mental health disorders.
While shakes can begin 5 to 12 hours after the last drink and are fairly common, DTs typically begin 48 to 72 hours after the last drink and are relatively rare. Acamprosate is prescribed to people after they’ve quit drinking alcohol to help them maintain abstinence. The drug helps ease alcohol withdrawal symptoms like insomnia, anxiety, and depression. Minor symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can be overcome with rest and at-home remedies, and it is possible for some people to taper off alcohol without supervision. However, individuals who suffer from alcohol addiction require professional rehab.
There are many support options available that can help guide you through alcohol withdrawal, as well as abstaining from alcohol after withdrawal. During the 12- to 24-hour time frame after the last drink, most people will begin to have noticeable symptoms. These may still be mild, or the existing symptoms might increase in severity. There is no exact timeline for alcohol withdrawal, and individual factors, such as the level of dependence on alcohol, will influence it. Be sure to line up a friend or family member to stay with you through the process.
Reach out for support
You may want to speak with a loved one or therapist about a strategy to prevent relapses from happening. The experience of withdrawing from alcohol can be uncomfortable and difficult. Some people may relapse, how to stop alcohol shakes at home or drink alcohol again, to relieve the symptoms. Avoid people who may encourage you to drink alcohol or may not support your decision to stop. It may be easier on your rehabilitation to skip visits with “drinking buddies” or avoid gatherings with a focus on drinking.
This can cause seizures and delirium tremens, a severe form of withdrawal marked by tremors and hallucinations. If you taper off alcohol slowly or with medical supervision, the brain has time to adapt without causing severe side effects. To avoid severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms, you should slowly reduce alcohol consumption. Cautious tapering may take longer than medically supervised detox, but it will help you avoid major health problems.