What Alcohol Withdrawal Feels Like: An Expert's Perspective

This is an unpleasant condition that many heavy drinkers experience when they suddenly stop or reduce their alcohol consumption. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (SAW) is the name of the symptoms that occur when a heavy drinker suddenly stops or significantly reduces their alcohol consumption. Excessive alcohol use or alcohol misuse can increase a person's risk of developing an alcohol use disorder, more commonly known as “alcoholism” or “alcohol addiction.” However, only one in two people living with an alcohol use disorder will develop symptoms due to alcohol withdrawal when it is greatly reduced or stopped drinking. Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can occur after a person suddenly stops drinking or drastically reduces alcohol consumption after prolonged and intense exposure.

These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include anxiety, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, sweating, tremors, and seizures. Seizures during alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening, so it is important to call 911 if you think someone who is going through alcohol withdrawal is having seizures. It is believed that alcohol withdrawal arises based on various changes in brain activity caused by prolonged and excessive consumption of alcohol. Depending on the level of physiological alcohol dependence, the severity of acute alcohol withdrawal will vary by individual.

Keep in mind that alcohol detoxification is only the first step, and additional treatment including medication and individual or group counseling is imperative if you want to maintain your sobriety. If you are struggling with an alcohol use disorder, there are resources available to help you. The SAMHSA National Helpline is a free referral service that can connect you to state services or other appropriate intake centers in your state. The referral service is free and does not require health insurance. If you have health insurance, we recommend that you contact your insurer for a list of participating providers and healthcare facilities. Alcohol and drug addiction affects the whole family.

Explains how substance abuse treatment works, how family interventions can be a first step to recovery, and how to help children from families affected by alcohol and drug abuse. For additional resources, visit the SAMHSA store. If you are struggling with an alcohol use disorder, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. Heavy drinkers who suddenly decline or stop drinking altogether may experience potentially dangerous symptoms that should be treated as a serious warning sign that you are drinking too much. The SAMHSA National Helpline can provide you with information about treatment options in your area.