Is it Dangerous to Stop Drinking Cold Turkey?

If you are concerned about your own drinking habits or that of a loved one, you may have considered the idea of giving up drinking alcohol. However, few know that for some individuals this could be very harmful to some people, especially in cases of long-term alcoholism.

Here, we explain everything you need to know about going cold turkey, the dangers of stopping drinking abruptly, and provide some healthier actionable steps that anyone can follow if they want to reduce or stop their drinking.

What Does Cold Turkey Mean?

Cold turkey describes the abrupt ending of alcohol consumption or drug use without gradually reducing doses. It has become a common phrase in the UK, especially within addiction and medical contexts. The term ‘cold turkey’ stems from the idea of drastic and sudden change.

Put simply, if someone were to stop drinking alcohol immediately, this would be described as them going cold turkey.

Understanding Alcohol Dependence

Alcohol dependence typically develops after prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption. It describes both a physical and psychological dependence on alcohol and occurs because the brain’s chemistry has adapted to the consistent presence of the substance. Over time and after heavy use, when someone drinks alcohol, the brain begins to associate the substance with feelings of pleasure and relaxation.

In order to feel these positive emotions in the future, the brain and body require alcohol and more of it. Plus, without it, individuals can experience cravings and withdrawal symptoms. This is known as alcohol tolerance and dependence.

In the UK, studies show that around 7.4% of adults aged 16 and over showed signs of alcohol dependence according to the NHS. What’s more, it’s reported that as many as 50% of individuals who are suffering from alcohol dependence also experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop drinking. This is why it’s so important to reduce drinking habits slowly and safely.

The Risks of Stopping Cold Turkey

For most people, stopping alcohol suddenly wouldn’t have potential risks associated with it. However, for those who have an alcohol addiction which causes the brain and body to rely on alcohol to function, quitting alcohol cold turkey poses a number of dangerous risks. This is especially the case for people who have consumed alcohol regularly over a long period of time.

This is because the body can experience withdrawal symptoms, including tremors, nausea sickness, anxiety, hallucinations, insomnia, seizures and mental health concerns.

In worst-case scenarios, the body can even go into a state of shock and experience what is known as Delirium Tremens (DTs). This is a life-threatening condition that presents with extreme confusion, a rapid heart rate and fever. It’s believed that DTs occur in up to 5% of all alcohol withdrawal cases but the mortality rate of those who develop DTs can be as high as 15%.

For this reason, it’s essential that individuals who are experiencing alcohol addiction and alcohol withdrawal consult the help of a professional if they want to reduce their alcohol consumption. What’s more, if you think you or someone you know is experiencing any of the above symptoms, get help fast.

Safe Ways to Quit Drinking

Instead of quitting alcohol cold turkey, there are various safer alternative methods which include gradually reducing your alcohol intake. The safest and most effective way to do this is under medical supervision but there are also local initiatives and detox programmes as well as support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) which can help you to do so in the community.

By gradually reducing your alcohol consumption, over time, you’re allowing the body to slowly get to terms with the reduction in substance and safely deal with any withdrawal symptoms as well as the severity of them.

If you do feel like a medically-supervised alcohol detox programme would be best, there are both inpatient and outpatient treatment centres that can provide essential support and guidance as well as a safe environment for individuals to effectively cease their alcohol intake.

When To Seek Help For Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

If you are worried about your own alcohol consumption or someone you care about, just know there is help available. Alcohol dependence can manifest in several ways but the key signs include an increased tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, lying and deceitful behaviour and a prioritisation of alcohol over career, relationships and other aspects of life. These can all indicate that an individual may benefit from professional help.

If you or someone you know is going through alcohol withdrawal, it’s important that you are aware of the potential signs and symptoms that indicate professional help is needed. This includes severe sickness, extreme tremors, hallucinations and seizures. Left untreated, these symptoms can become worse and require medical attention to ensure the safety and comfort of the individual.

It’s important to note that those with less severe symptoms may still require medical attention, which is why you should pay close attention to the symptoms mentioned above. This can help to manage symptoms and prevent any complications, which can unfortunately become life threatening.

Finding Support For Quitting Alcohol

Those who are quitting alcohol should know that there is help out there – whether you choose to get in touch with an addiction treatment centre, want to utilise community support groups or prefer online resources. Our helpline can direct you towards the treatment and support you need and also answer any questions. This includes helping you to access alcohol detox and alcohol addiction therapy.

Alcohol dependence and withdrawal is a challenging situation, and going cold turkey may seem like the best and most straightforward solution. However, it does bring with it a series of potential risks, especially for those who have consumed alcohol for a long period of time.

However, by understanding safer ways to quit alcohol and also how to complete a safe alcohol detox as well as being aware of any warning signs throughout the process, you can approach the situation better-informed and with greater success and safety. So what are you waiting for? Get in touch today and start planning for a life away from alcohol and addiction.