{"id":2610,"date":"2023-07-21T05:19:34","date_gmt":"2023-07-21T05:19:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/?page_id=2610"},"modified":"2025-02-27T22:37:26","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T22:37:26","slug":"what-helps-with-alcohol-withdrawal","status":"publish","type":"blog","link":"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/alcohol\/what-helps-with-alcohol-withdrawal\/","title":{"rendered":"18 Ways to Deal With Alcohol Withdrawal"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/alcohol\/withdrawal-detox\/\" data-type=\"blog\" data-id=\"2939\">Alcohol withdrawal symptoms<\/a> can vary greatly: some people experience mild irritation, while others contend with severe discomfort. If you\u2019ve developed a dependency on alcohol, it\u2019s likely you\u2019ve been using it for a considerable period, possibly to cope with an underlying mental health concern or to alleviate physical pain. Unfortunately, the discomfort of withdrawal itself can make it tempting to resume drinking to escape those unpleasant feelings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A strong first step in preparing for successful detox is consulting an addiction treatment professional. Their expertise can help you familiarize yourself with the expected duration of withdrawal and learn specific strategies \u2014 such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/alcohol\/create-alcohol-taper-schedule\/\" data-type=\"blog\" data-id=\"2815\">gradually reducing<\/a> alcohol intake \u2014 that may reduce severity. Meanwhile, there are also natural methods and activities you can incorporate to occupy your mind and soothe cravings. While some of these coping mechanisms are most helpful during the withdrawal period, others are particularly effective at managing longer-term urges to drink.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At <strong>The Recovery Village Palm Beach at Baptist Health<\/strong>, we understand that your experience is unique, and we\u2019re committed to guiding you through each stage of the withdrawal process. Below, you\u2019ll find 18 actionable ways to cope with withdrawal symptoms and support your journey toward lasting sobriety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Deal With Alcohol Withdrawal<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"16 Ways To Deal With Alcohol Withdrawal - The Recovery Village  #AlcoholWithdrawal  #AlcoholDetox\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/PNS-TG4GIvU?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\">1. Stay Hydrated with Electrolyte-Rich Fluids<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Managing dehydration and nausea is often key when withdrawing from alcohol. Replenish your body with fluids containing essential electrolytes like sodium, calcium, potassium and magnesium. Drinking sports beverages or electrolyte-infused water can help restore chemical balances in the body. This approach can alleviate discomfort and promote a smoother withdrawal process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Seek Support \u2014 Don\u2019t Isolate Yourself<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Detoxing alone can increase stress and make withdrawal symptoms feel more overwhelming. Let trusted friends or family members know about your plan to detox and invite them to support you. You might also set up a schedule so someone can be with you during the first week, offering both emotional reassurance and practical assistance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Remember You Are Not Alone<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s easy to feel isolated when overcoming alcohol use disorder. However, countless individuals have experienced alcohol withdrawal and successfully navigated the process. Participating in group therapy or connecting with others who are also in recovery can reduce feelings of loneliness. If you anticipate moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms, consider a professional detox program \u2014 it can provide medical and emotional support when you need it most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Expect and Manage Cravings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cravings may persist during and after detox. Visualize each craving as a wave: it builds, peaks and eventually crashes before fading away. Even if one craving subsides, another one may arrive shortly. Recognizing that cravings are temporary can help you hold on during those most intense moments until the urge passes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Write Yourself an Encouraging Letter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before you begin withdrawal, compose a letter to your future self. Remind yourself of the reasons you want to get sober and include words of motivation. Keep this note nearby, and read it \u2014 or even say it out loud \u2014 whenever cravings strike. Reaffirming your determination can help strengthen your resolve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. \u201cFast Forward\u201d Your Relapse Fantasy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you find your mind drifting toward the idea of \u201cjust one more drink,\u201d take a moment to mentally move past that momentary relief. Imagine the inevitable regret and additional pain that would follow if you relapse. By connecting alcohol use with negative consequences rather than short-term pleasure, you reinforce your commitment to overcoming addiction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Take a Cold Shower<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A cold shower can provide both mental clarity and physical relief. Not only may it help diminish the intensity of relapse urges by offering a shock to your system, but it can also soothe physical symptoms such as hot flashes. A brief period of cooling off can refocus your mind and reset your body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Recognize Withdrawal Discomfort Is Temporary<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One encouraging thought is that withdrawal symptoms, while difficult, won\u2019t last forever. Reminding yourself that the pain and discomfort are temporary can help you stay motivated. Each day you endure gets you one step closer to a healthier, alcohol-free life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Fuel Your Body with Nutritious Foods<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can supply critical nutrients your body needs during detox. Natural sugars in fruit may help curb sugar cravings, which are often strong during withdrawal. Eating well provides both physical and mental benefits, giving your body the energy it needs to heal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Avoid People Who Enable Drinking<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Steer clear of anyone who might encourage you to drink or disregard the importance of your sobriety. Individuals who minimize your addiction or offer you alcohol can undermine your recovery efforts. Setting boundaries or distancing yourself from these influences helps you focus on healing and prevents setbacks during detox.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">11. Practice Intentional Breathing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When stress or cravings take hold, turning to mindful breathing can ground you. Inhale deeply through your nose for a few seconds, hold your breath briefly, then exhale slowly through your mouth. This technique helps activate your <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2738354\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">prefrontal cortex<\/a>, improving your ability to think critically and make rational decisions during withdrawal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">12. Explore Meditation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Like deep breathing, meditation <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4106278\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">promotes<\/a> relaxation and helps you remain centered. Taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breath or a calming image can bring clarity to your goals and remind you why you embarked on this journey. Meditation also encourages a proactive, rather than reactive, mindset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">13. Engage in Light Exercise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Physical activity, even in small doses, releases endorphins that can boost your mood and combat stress. While you may not feel like working out, gentle exercise such as stretching or walking can reduce withdrawal symptoms and lift your spirits. As an added bonus, feeling stronger in your body can enhance your self-confidence as you move forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">14. Listen to Music<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Distraction is a powerful method of coping with withdrawal symptoms. Music you once enjoyed may become a source of renewed comfort and pleasure. By immersing yourself in melodies and lyrics, you can redirect your attention away from cravings and toward something more uplifting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">15. Take a Walk Outdoors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fresh air and light physical movement can significantly improve your emotional state. Even if you\u2019re exhausted, a walk outside can provide mental clarity and help you reconnect with the present moment. Combine this activity with intentional breathing for an even more grounding experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">16. Dive into a Good Book<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you choose a captivating novel or an informative non-fiction piece, reading can be an excellent diversion. It engages your mind, keeps your hands busy and focuses your attention on something other than withdrawal symptoms. Pick topics or genres that interest you and allow yourself to get lost in the story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">17. Rediscover an Old Hobby or Start a New One<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many people are surprised by the amount of time they regain after quitting alcohol. Reinvesting this newfound energy into a meaningful hobby can enrich your life and provide a constructive outlet. Whether you return to a pastime you once loved or try something completely new, hobbies can help fill the space alcohol once occupied.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">18. Seek Medical Help for More Than Mild Withdrawal Symptoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">Alcohol withdrawal can escalate quickly, and severe complications like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/alcohol\/alcohol-delirium-tremens\/\" data-type=\"blog\" data-id=\"2674\">delirium tremens (DTs)<\/a> can be life-threatening. Symptoms such as severe nausea, seizures or hallucinations require immediate medical attention. If you suspect you may experience moderate to severe withdrawal, consider seeking professional detox services. At The Recovery Village Palm Beach at Baptist Health, our team is prepared to provide the medical and emotional support you need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Overcoming Alcohol Withdrawal<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/alcohol\/addiction\/\" data-type=\"blog\" data-id=\"701\">Alcohol<\/a> is a powerful drug, and overcoming dependence and addiction is not easy. There is no single best way to overcome withdrawal, but common themes are associated with successful recovery. For many people, alcohol was a big part of their daily lives. Recovery depends on finding healthy new activities that can occupy the time once spent drinking alcohol. Exercise, artistic pursuits and social engagement and outreach are common avenues toward recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\">Some people find motivation and inspiration by hearing alcohol recovery stories. Many rehab facilities and medical centers offer aftercare programs and meetings, allowing people to share experiences, successes, motivating insights and inspiration in a safe, non-judgmental environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"eplus-wrapper wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/contact-us\/\"><strong>Contact The Recovery Village at Baptist Health<\/strong><\/a><strong> to speak with a Recovery Advocate about receiving professional treatment for alcohol addiction. You deserve a healthier future; call today.<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can vary greatly: some people experience mild irritation, while others contend with severe discomfort. If you\u2019ve developed a dependency on alcohol, it\u2019s likely you\u2019ve been using it for a considerable period, possibly to cope with an underlying mental health concern or to alleviate physical pain. Unfortunately, the discomfort of withdrawal itself can [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":11578,"parent":697,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false},"categories":[16],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2610","blog","type-blog","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-alcohol"],"acf":{"written_by":13525,"enable_medically_and_up":["Yes"],"medically_reviewed_by":325,"medically_reviewed_content":"This article was reviewed by a medical professional to guarantee the delivery of accurate and up-to- date information. <a href=\"\/research\/\">View our research policy.<\/a>","up_to_date":"<i>Last Updated<\/i> - <b>02\/27\/2025<\/b>","page_first_published_date":"20221229","page_last_edit_date":"20250227","highlighted_description":"If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, help is available. Speak with a Recovery Advocate by calling <a href=\"tel:8886480738\" ><b>888-648-0738<\/b><\/a> now.","key_takeaways":"","source":{"source_label":"","source_content":""},"staff_member_heading":"Authorship","staff_member":[{"staff_member_title":"Writer","select_staff_member":13525},{"staff_member_title":"Medical Reviewer","select_staff_member":325}],"insurance_label":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog\/2610","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/blog"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2610"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog\/2610\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/blog\/697"}],"acf:post":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/staff\/325"},{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/staff\/13525"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11578"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2610"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2610"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.floridarehab.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2610"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}