If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, you may be wondering if it is possible to quit drinking on your own. However, it’s important to understand that quitting alcohol cold turkey without professional help can be dangerous and even life-threatening, with the risk of death being a possibility, particularly for those who have been consuming alcohol heavily. A person who is addicted to alcohol has a number of symptoms that are easily identifiable. Binge drinking and hangxiety are common symptoms and consequences of alcohol addiction.
What is Quitting Cold Turkey?
Quitting alcohol cold turkey means abruptly stopping all consumption of alcohol without any medical assistance or tapering off. This approach, also known as “abrupt cessation” or “unassisted withdrawal,” is often tempting for those who want to quit alcohol on their own without seeking professional help. However, it can be risky and even life-threatening, especially for individuals who have been consuming alcohol heavily or regularly for a prolonged period of time.
The withdrawal symptoms that occur when an individual stops drinking abruptly can range from mild to severe, including anxiety, insomnia, nausea, sweating, tremors, seizures, and hallucinations. These symptoms can be dangerous, and in some cases, severe enough to require medical attention or hospitalization.
Quitting cold turkey can also increase the risk of relapse. Without medical or professional support, individuals are more likely to experience intense cravings and temptations to return to their previous drinking habits. This can make it challenging for them to maintain sobriety and increase their risk of relapse.
Can you quit drinking on your own?
Many individuals who attempt to quit alcohol cold turkey believe that they can safely do it on their own, regardless of their level of alcohol consumption. However, this is a dangerous misconception that can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms and even life-threatening complications.
Quitting alcohol on your own can also increase the risk of relapse due to the lack of accountability and support. Withdrawing from alcohol is not only physically but also psychologically strenuous, making the support of others crucial for a successful recovery. Seeking professional help for alcohol addiction can provide individuals with the medical attention and support they need to safely detox and overcome addiction, as well as strategies to prevent relapse and maintain long-term sobriety.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reported that in 2019, 14.5 million people in the United States were affected by alcohol use disorder. The severity of alcohol misuse problems varies, and individuals with severe alcohol dependence should seek medical help.
Quitting on their own, particularly via a cold turkey approach, may be very dangerous.
Dangers of alcohol withdrawal
The symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can be both physical and psychological, with some being severe and life-threatening. Typically, alcohol withdrawal syndrome starts within 6 to 24 hours after the last drink and can last for several days.
Mild symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Tremors
Severe symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include:
- Delirium tremens (DTs), which is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal that can cause seizures, hallucinations, and confusion
- High blood pressure and rapid heart rate
- Fever
- Dehydration
- Severe vomiting
- Respiratory failure
The risk of developing severe symptoms of alcohol withdrawal is higher for individuals who have been drinking heavily for a prolonged period of time or who have a history of seizures or other medical conditions.
The Timeline of Alcohol Withdrawal
Individuals who engage in prolonged alcohol use may experience varying withdrawal symptoms, ranging in severity. Although the timing and intensity of these symptoms can differ from person to person, they typically follow a specific pattern.
During the first 6-12 hours of withdrawal
Relatively milder symptoms may set in, including insomnia, tremors, mild anxiety, stomachache, headache, excessive sweating, heart palpitations, and loss of appetite.
Between hours 12-24
hallucinations may occur, and the individual may experience a heightened sense of confusion and disorientation.
Between hours 24-48
the risk for seizures is at its highest, should they develop. Seizures can range in severity and may require medical attention.
Between hours 48-72
the risk for developing alcohol withdrawal delirium (or DTs) continues into the third day, with symptoms such as psychomotor agitation, hallucinations, disorientation, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, fever, and sweating. DTs can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
Learn more about alcohol withdrawal timeline in our comprehensive blog post
Medical Complications of Alcohol Withdrawal
Alcohol withdrawal can lead to serious medical complications, including dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and malnutrition. Malnutrition related to alcohol use can lead to Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome, a condition that affects up to 80% of individuals with alcohol use disorder according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. This syndrome can cause confusion, optic nerve paralysis, and long-term memory problems.
Quitting Alcohol Cold Turkey
Quitting alcohol cold turkey without professional help can be extremely dangerous, with potentially life-threatening consequences, especially for those who have a history of alcohol dependence or comorbid physical or mental health conditions. Seeking professional help, such as the individualized treatment plans offered by Still Detox Luxury Rehab in Boca Raton, Florida, can provide individuals with the medical supervision, support, and resources they need to safely detox and maintain sobriety.
Why Choose Still Detox Luxury Rehab for Alcohol Addiction Treatment?
Safe and comfortable detox
Our experienced medical team provides 24/7 medical supervision and support to ensure a safe and comfortable detox process, using evidence-based practices and medication-assisted treatment, if needed, to manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications.
Holistic approach to treatment
At Still Detox Luxury Rehab, we take a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment that addresses the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of addiction. We provide personalized nutrition plans and prioritize physical wellness as essential components of recovery.
Serene and comfortable environment
Our facility in Boca Raton, Florida, is designed to provide a calming and peaceful environment that fosters relaxation and introspection, allowing individuals to focus on their recovery without distractions or stressors.
Personalized care
Our experienced medical and therapeutic team creates individualized treatment plans that address each individual’s unique needs and circumstances, including co-occurring disorders and underlying mental health conditions.
Evidence-based therapies
We incorporate evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based practices, to address the underlying causes of addiction and provide individuals with the tools and resources they need to maintain sobriety.
Residential program
Our residential program provides a safe and supportive environment where individuals can focus solely on their recovery. With 24/7 supervision and support, clients receive intensive therapy and holistic care while living on-site for the duration of their program.
Aftercare support
Our aftercare program provides ongoing support and guidance to help prevent relapse and promote long-term recovery, including alumni events, online support groups, and individualized continuing care plans.
Family Program
Addiction affects not only the individual but also their loved ones. Our family program offers support and resources to family members, including family therapy, education, and communication skills, to help them understand and cope with the challenges of addiction.
