Going Cold Turkey On Alcohol: Is It A Good Idea?

So, Should You Go Cold Turkey on Alcohol?

Is it a good idea to go cold turkey on alcohol? No, it’s not advised to go cold turkey on alcohol. As discussed, going cold turkey on alcohol can be both dangerous and life-threatening.

When you stop drinking alcohol suddenly, you’re putting your body at risk of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS), which can bring on severe and harmful symptoms.

The Dangers of Quitting Alcohol Cold Turkey

When you quit alcohol cold turkey, you’re at risk of AWS. Symptoms of AWS potentially include:

• Seizures
• Hallucinations
• Cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)
• Delirium tremens (DTs)

These particular symptoms can cause much worry, and it’s important to seek medical help if you believe yourself or someone you know is experiencing these – especially DTs.

Delirium Tremens vs Alcohol Withdrawal

Spotting the difference between the common alcohol withdrawal symptoms and more severe symptoms, life-threatening symptoms is key:

• Common symptoms – General symptoms range from mild to severe within the first few days of withdrawal, including anxiety, nausea, and irritability
• DTs – Around the 48 – 72 hour mark, the most severe symptoms will peak. Someone may display confusion or brain fog, and have a rapid heart rate, fever, hallucinations, and seizures

DTs can be life-threatening. Immediate medical support is vital if such a medical emergency occurs during withdrawal. Be sure to consider the dangers of detoxing from alcohol at home without medical interventions before beginning your recovery.

How to Safely Quit Alcohol

Now that we’ve established how dangerous quitting alcohol cold turkey can be, we’re sure you’re wondering how to do it safely. There are three main alternatives to consider for a safe and effective recovery from alcohol addiction:

• A medically supervised detox programme – Monitored by medical professionals throughout your recovery process
• A home detox programme – Best for mild addictions, home detox kits help ease withdrawal symptoms
• Tapering method – Gradually reducing your alcohol intake over a certain amount of time

What is Tapering Off Alcohol?

Tapering off alcohol is a helpful method that involves reducing how much alcohol you consume over a set period.

This particular method allows your body to adjust to decreasing levels of alcohol while helping to minimise the severity of any withdrawal symptoms. Tapering off alcohol is often recommended for those who have been drinking heavily.

Which Method is Best to Quit Alcohol?

The method you use to quit alcohol safely depends on the severity of your addiction. However, both home detox and medically supervised detox programmes tend to provide the best benefits.

Up until March 2024, there were over 310, 863 adults aged 18 and over in contact with alcohol treatment services. There’s no shame or embarrassment for seeking help. Therapy is also beneficial, helping you understand your addiction, learn coping strategies, and develop healthier ways to manage stress and emotions.

In most cases, professional alcohol use disorder treatment is the most effective way to achieve long-term recovery.

Precautions to Consider During Recovery

A medical detox certainly provides one of the safest routes to becoming sober for good. Regardless of whether you slowly wean yourself off alcohol through the tapering method, or choose the safer alternative of a medical detox, we suggest considering a few precautions:

• Stay clear of bad influences
• Stay clear of people who cause stress or anxiety
• Seek support through loved ones
• Avoid scenarios where alcohol is involved
• Stay away from the alcohol section in supermarkets
• Start removing alcohol from your home
• Maintain a good sleep schedule

Detox From Alcohol Safely With Home Detox UK

The decision to stop drinking alcohol is personal, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. While some individuals may find success in quitting cold turkey, many others require medical detox, therapy, and ongoing support.

If medical detox sounds like a better option for you or a close loved one, Home Detox UK can help. Our team will assess your circumstances and determine the best home treatment, providing the tools you need to detox safely.

Let’s put you on the path to a healthier and happier life – begin your journey today. We can also discuss potential therapy options to find the underlying cause of your addiction.

To discuss rehabilitation options, from inpatient to outpatient, please contact us today. We look forward to speaking soon.