When you stop drinking your body needs time to readjust. This section contains information about what to expect.
You shouldn't need any expense rehabilitation centers to come off alcohol. Many people do it quite safely within the confines of their own home. Please be aware however, that if you are ever concerned about what is occurring or if you have had a bad experience in the past, you should contact your physician or local community alcohol team. You shouldn't feel as if you are punishing yourself by going through bad withdrawal symptoms.
Generally the first three days are probably the worst of what you will experience. It is not uncommon to feel anxious, irritable and restless and you may even have flu-like symptoms. Please do not give up; in a week to ten days you will feel much better.
It is important to drink fruit juice during the first few days as alcohol has a high sugar content and it is helpful to replace this.
Alcohol disturbs your natural sleep patterns; if you can't sleep or wake after just a few hours, don't worry - this is quite normal and will right itself after a few weeks. Try learning some relaxation exercises.
As the days go by, you will find old interests returning. Allow yourself to enjoy them. Watch TV as much as you like and try to get some exercise. Give yourself some small objectives that you know are achievable. If you want to give up smoking - do something about it at a later date - one thing at a time.
A good support network is essential. Talk to people who are close to you and explain what you are feeling. If they appear to lack faith in you don't be upset - they undoubtedly will need time to adjust just like you.
Please remember that stopping drinking will not solve all the underlying problems that caused you to drink in the first place. It is easy to fall in to the trap of trying to tackle them all right away, DON'T DO IT! It will take some time but after a while you will be in a better position to put your problems in to the proper perspective and can then you begin to talk to someone, like a counselor, who can guide you through them.
Beware of setting yourself up to drink again. Prepare in your mind what you will say if someone offers you a drink. And don't forget, one drink will always lead to another. It is best to simply stop altogether.
It is not easy giving up alcohol, but by taking things slowly - one day at a time as AA puts it - and being realistic, you will succeed.
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