Is it safe for me to stop drinking?

For most people who drink socially or a few times a week, taking a 30-day break is generally safe, and many notice better sleep and mood within weeks. For some people, stopping suddenly can be medically dangerous. Please read this before you start.

The fastest way to find out where you stand is the three-minute fit check. It asks these questions first, keeps your answers on your own device, and sends you to the right place: the Play or Skills track, a pause to talk to a clinician, or free Medical Prep. It is a sorting tool, not a diagnosis and not medical clearance.

Talk to a doctor before stopping if any of these apply

• You drink heavily every day or almost every day.
• You drink in the morning to feel normal or to stop shaking.
• You've had shaking, sweating, racing heart, anxiety, nausea or trouble sleeping when you cut back before.
• You've ever had a seizure, hallucinations or confusion after stopping drinking.
• You take medications or have health conditions, or you are pregnant.

Alcohol withdrawal usually begins within hours to a day after the last drink. In severe cases it can include seizures or delirium, which can be life-threatening. The good news: doctors can manage it safely, often with medication, and you don't need to go through it alone.

Get help now

• Emergency or severe symptoms (seizure, confusion, hallucinations): call 911.
• SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357), free, confidential, 24/7, treatment referral and information.
• Find treatment and support options near you: findtreatment.gov
• If you are thinking about harming yourself: call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, U.S.).

What this program is and isn't

Alcohol Is Poison is an educational health program for adults who want a structured break from alcohol. It is not medical care, therapy, detox or a treatment program, and we are not affiliated with SAMHSA. If you're not sure whether it's right for you, ask your doctor. You can bring this page with you.