How to Quit Alcohol Safely

Quitting alcohol is never an easy feat. It is full of challenges, both physical, mental, and environmental. However, if you are looking for medically proven and quick ways to quit alcohol without the risk of relapsing, you have come to the right place. This decision can be a life-saver. Below are some shocking statistics:

• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention1 (CDC), about 178,000 people die from excessive drinking each year. 
• Data from the 2023 NSDUH2 show that 172.9 million adults ages 18 and older (67.1% of this age group) reported drinking in the past year. 

These figures highlight the need to quit alcohol or, at the very least, reduce its consumption. However, the journey is not easy and should be approached with seriousness to achieve lasting sobriety.

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What Is Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)?

Alcohol Use Disorder is a medical condition where a person finds it hard to control drinking, despite their willingness and willpower. Because people do not undergo alcohol treatment, they soon end up in end-stage alcoholism, which causes serious health concerns such as wet brain syndrome, cancer, pancreatitis, and liver failure. People with AUD continue to drink even when it causes problems in their lives, like at work or in relationships. It often involves cravings, drinking more than planned, and feeling sick when not drinking.

Free Addiction Assessment

Please note this assessment is an initial self-screening, and it is not meant to be a medical assessment or clinical diagnosis of addiction. For proper diagnosis and treatment, schedule an appointment with ChoicePoint.

7 Step-by-Step Guide to Quitting Alcohol

Alcohol stays in your blood for a certain time, which is typically up to 6 hours after drinking for moderate use. However, this can vary depending on factors like how much you drank, your body weight, age, and metabolism. Below are the strategies to beat alcoholism the safe way:

Step 1: Acknowledge the Problem

Accepting that you need help is the first but a vital step towards recovery. Denying the problem only delays treatment and exacerbates the issue. Recognize the early 5 stages of addiction that people mostly tend to ignore or asses online alcohol assessmnet near you to take action quickly. 

Step 2: Seek Help From a Professional

The best way to quit alcohol is by first talking to a DEA-certified healthcare professional because quitting alcohol cold turkey can be fatal, which means leaving alcohol on your own without medical supervision. 

Step 3: Undergo Medical Alcohol Detox

Detox is the first step in quitting alcohol, where your body flushes alcohol out of your system fast. It comes with alcohol withdrawal symptoms, so medical supervision is recommended for safety. 

Step 4: Create a Support System

Build strong connections with family, friends, and colleagues. You can also join support groups. Another important aspect is professional alcohol therapy, which plays a crucial role in the recovery process.

Step 5: Remove Triggers

Identify the causes, such as stress, certain people, or places, that may lead you to drink. It helps you to control cravings, even after recovery.

Step 6: Find Healthy Alternatives

You must find healthy alternatives, such as exercise, various hobbies, and meditation, to manage stress without alcohol. These may be difficult to incorporate into your life on your own. Therefore, seeking help from an alcohol rehab is important. 

Step 7: Undergo Aftercare

Unfortunately, the risk of relapse still runs after completing rehab. Therefore, having an effective aftercare plan is very crucial. This also includes protecting yourself by staying away from people and social gatherings where alcohol is easily available.

ChoicePoint is a certified alcohol rehab in NJ offering nationwide online consultation, accepting many commercial insurance programs. Our patients become part of our family and enjoy the recovery process. Simply call us at 844.445.2565 and start a smooth transition to a healthier lifestyle. 

How Long Does It Take For Alcohol to Leave the Body

According to research3, most of the alcohol (over 90%) is broken down in the liver, where it’s turned into a chemical called acetaldehyde. A small amount of alcohol (less than 10%) leaves the body through breath, urine, and sweat without being changed. However, the timeline for alcohol to leave the body depends on several factors, including:

• The amount consumed
• Body weight
• Sex
• Age

Typically, alcohol is flushed out within 12 to 24 hours, after which withdrawal symptoms may begin to appear, especially in heavy drinkers. Want to clear your system? Here are 3 ways to get alcohol out of your system safely.

Is Alcohol the Hardest to Quit?

The Timeline of Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Alcohol leaves the body relatively quickly, but managing withdrawal symptoms and controlling cravings is a long-term process. That’s why it’s important to consider all contributing factors before creating a realistic timeline for overcoming alcohol dependence. Below is a typical timeline that outlines the stages of recovery and relapse prevention.

4 Effective Ways to Deal with Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

During the alcohol detox process, withdrawal symptoms may appear. These symptoms can often become severe, even life-threatening, which is why managing them under the supervision of trained healthcare professionals is recommended. The following strategies are commonly adopted to manage withdrawal symptoms:

1. Seek medical supervision: Finding a proper medical treatment is essential to deal with withdrawal symptoms. Otherwise, the severity of these symptoms sometimes becomes fatal.
2. Use medication-assisted support: Proper medication is also necessary to manage withdrawal symptoms. These medications should be prescribed by DEA-approved healthcare professionals and used under their supervision.
3. Utilize supportive care and environment: Comfortable surroundings, hydration, balanced nutrition, and rest are vital during withdrawal. Family members or trained staff can offer emotional reassurance and distraction from cravings.
4. Practice coping techniques: Various techniques can help manage these symptoms during detox. These techniques include meditation, deep breathing, mindfulness, and positive thinking.

Alcohol Dependence Treatment at ChoicePoint Rehab 

ChoicePoint offers a comprehensive alcohol treatment program designed to help individuals overcome alcohol dependence. With licensed professionals and around-the-clock support, our staff aims to guide patients through every stage of recovery toward long-term sobriety.

a. Alcohol Detox and Withdrawal Management

First, you need to get alcohol out of your system, which is accomplished through medical detox. During this process, withdrawal symptoms are carefully managed, and the body is cleared of alcohol and its toxic effects. Therefore, it is recommended that the detox process be conducted in an alcohol treatment center

b. Behavioral Treatments

These therapies help individuals change their drinking behaviors. Common types include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Group Therapy Programs.

c. Psychological Counselling

It addressed the emotional and psychological health challenges related to alcohol use. Individuals are encouraged to find the underlying causes of stress, postpartum depression, or trauma. This support is often essential for long-term recovery and relapse prevention.

d. Online MAT For Alcohol Use Disorder

Medications are an essential part of the recovery process. They help reduce cravings and also prevent relapse. Naltrexone, Acamprosate, and Disulfiram are common medications used.

e. Aftercare Programs

After completing treatment, individuals need continued support to prevent relapse. This may include ongoing therapy, check-ins with healthcare providers, or participation in support groups.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with alcohol use disorder, contact us at 844.445.2565 or complete the form to explore the level of care that best fulfills your treatment needs (IOP detox, IOP alcohol treatment, Outpatient alcohol program, PHP alcohol rehab level of care) and quickly get alcohol out of your system.

Alcoholism Self-Care: 5 Ways to Prevent Relapse

According to a 2025 study by Tabugan, D. C., Bredicean4, and others, people who quit drugs or alcohol relapse within a year, with rates between 80% and 90%. So, relapse prevention holds an important role in helping individuals maintain sobriety and live an addiction-free life. Here are some of these strategies:

1. Avoid Triggers: Avoid people who drink alcohol and places where alcohol is consumed socially.
2. Find Emotional Support: Establish a connection with family and friends to seek emotional support.
3. Stay Engaged: Focus on healthy habits like exercise or games to stay active and reduce cravings.
4. Practice Self-Care: Maintain a healthy routine that supports emotional and physical well-being.
5. Shift Your Mindset: Replace negative thinking with positive thoughts to better manage stress.

Long-lasting Benefits of Living Alcohol-Free

Giving up alcohol offers powerful physical, mental, and emotional benefits that can transform your overall well-being. These benefits include:

6 Common Physical Health Benefits

1. Improved Liver Function: The liver begins to repair itself, improving its functionality.
2. Better Sleep Quality: Without alcohol, your sleep becomes deeper and more refreshing.
3. Weight Loss: Cutting alcohol reduces empty calories, which can lead to healthy weight loss.
4. Lower Risk of Various Diseases: It lowers the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.
5. Stronger Immune System: Your immune system becomes more efficient at fighting off illness.
6. Decreased Cancer Risk: The possibility of developing various types of cancer is reduced.

6 Common Mental and Emotional Benefits

1. Stabilization of Mood: Alcohol-free living helps regulate mood swings and emotional outbursts.
2. Improved Memory: Cognitive function, including memory, improves.
3. Better Concentration: Focus and mental sharpness typically increase with sobriety.
4. Reduced Depression and Anxiety: Mental conditions like depression and anxiety are significantly reduced.
5. Increased Self-Esteem: It encourages you to face the world with optimism and confidence, which improves your self-esteem.

3 Common Social and Relationship Benefits

1. Stronger Relationships: You reconnect with your family, friends, and colleagues.
2. Improved Work Performance: Your performance at work improves, which brings greater productivity, recognition, and career opportunities.
3. More Meaningful Connections: You build deeper, supportive relationships that strengthen your recovery and emotional well-being.

From alcohol detox to alcohol MAT, ChoicePoint’s services are covered by insurance. Verify your healthcare coverage to know what treatments are included and how much your plan will cover.

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Most Asked Questions About Quitting Alcohol From Our Patients and Their Loved Ones

1. What do I do if I really want to stop drinking, but I like drinking?

It’s normal to feel conflicted about quitting alcohol. Start by thinking about why you want to stop and what benefits it could bring. Talk to a counselor or join a support group for guidance and motivation. You don’t have to do it alone—help is available.

2. How long after stopping alcohol do you feel better?

Most people start feeling better within a few days to a week. Physical withdrawal symptoms usually peak within the first 3–5 days. Mental and emotional improvement may take a few weeks. Everyone’s timeline is different, depending on various factors.

3. What is the hardest day of quitting drinking?

The hardest day is often the first or second day after your last drink. This is when withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, shaking, or cravings are at their peak. With medical help or support, it becomes easier to get through. After a few days, things usually start to improve.

4. How to detox your body from alcohol?

The safest way to detox is under medical supervision, especially if you’ve been drinking heavily. A doctor may use medications to ease symptoms and monitor your health. Detox drink water, eat nutritious food, and get plenty of rest. 

5. Is it OK to stop drinking immediately?

It depends on how much and how often you drink. For heavy or long-term drinkers, quitting suddenly can be dangerous without medical help. It’s best to talk to a doctor before stopping. 

Sources

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, August 6). Facts About U.S. Deaths from Excessive Alcohol Use. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Retrieved June 16, 2025, from
   https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/facts‑stats/index.html
2. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2024, June). Alcohol Use in the United States: Age Groups and Demographic Characteristics. Retrieved June 16, 2025, from
   https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics-z/alcohol-facts-and-statistics/alcohol-use-united-states-age-groups-and-demographic-characteristics
3. Büsker, S., Jones, A. W., Hahn, R. G., Taubert, M., Klotz, U., Schwab, M., & Fuhr, U. (2023). Population pharmacokinetics as a tool to reevaluate the complex disposition of ethanol in the fed and fasted states. Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 63(6), 681–694.
   https://doi.org/10.1002/jcph.2205
4. Tabugan, D. C., Bredicean, A. C., Anghel, T., Dumache, R., Muresan, C., Corsaro, L., & Hogea, L. (2025). Novel Insights into Addiction Management: A Meta‑Analysis on Intervention for Relapse Prevention. Medicina, 61(4), 619.
   https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61040619