Is it safe to quit drinking suddenly? What to know about withdrawal

For many people who drink moderately, taking a break from alcohol is uncomfortable but safe. For people who drink heavily or daily over a long period, stopping suddenly can be dangerous. It can cause alcohol withdrawal syndrome, which in severe cases includes seizures and delirium tremens and can be life-threatening.

Who is at higher risk

• You drink every day, or most days, and have for months or years.
• You drink first thing in the morning to steady your hands or nerves.
• You have had withdrawal symptoms, a seizure or confusion when you stopped before.
• You also take sedatives or other substances, or have other health conditions.

Symptoms to watch for

Milder symptoms often start within hours of the last drink: anxiety, shaking, sweating, nausea, headache and trouble sleeping. Severe signs include seizures, hallucinations, confusion, a racing heart and fever.

What to do instead of going it alone

• Talk to a doctor or a local alcohol service before you stop if you are in a higher-risk group. They can advise on tapering or supervised detox.
• Do not stop prescribed medication without advice.
• Tell someone you trust what you are doing so they can help if things go wrong.
• Use an app like Sober Ally for counting days and coping with cravings alongside, not instead of, medical care.

Sober Ally is a self-help tool, not medical advice, and cannot tell you whether it is safe for you to stop. If in doubt, ask a professional first.