How long does it take to start feeling better after you quit drinking?

If someone offered you a glass of poison, you would decline. If they were to insist, saying this will make it harder for you to walk or think or remember, and you will feel like shit in the morning (and by the way, you have to pay for it); well, that is a sobering thought. But that is exactly what alcohol is and does.

Alcohol is toxic to your cells. So, while it is true that alcohol abuse takes its toll on our body, and the first few days and weeks will be the most uncomfortable, the human body is miraculous and begins repairing almost immediately after your last drink. 

The recovery timeline varies from person to person. In this article, I have put together a general timeline of what to expect when you quit drinking and ways you can support your recovery process.

It is important to seek medical supervision when quitting alcohol, especially for those with a history of heavy drinking, as withdrawal symptoms can be severe and potentially dangerous.

IMMEDIATE
No more hangovers or waking up with regret
Detox symptoms are the worst

Drink lots of water to help flush out toxins
Get lots and lots of sleep
Remind yourself this will pass
Find emotional support

The first 72 hours after your last drink can be difficult as withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, sweating, and anxiety may set in. These symptoms are usually temporary and depend on your overall health, alcohol consumption history, and possible use of other drugs. For individuals who have been drinking heavily for a long time, withdrawal symptoms can be severe and potentially life-threatening, making it important to seek medical care and talk to a doctor when quitting. This ensures a safe and comfortable detox.

1-2 WEEKS
Detox symptoms have mostly gone
May notice weight loss
Sleep patterns improve
Less obsessing about drinking
Reduction in anxiety and depression symptoms can be noticed

Taking care of physical and mental well-being is important during the recovery process. Going for a walk in the fresh air and taking deep breaths can help improve energy levels and reduce depression. For those with a history of depression, it's crucial to seek medical advice and attend to your overall health. Introduce healthy food, eating rituals, and snacks into your daily routine. Additionally, connecting with support, whether it's through online resources or the community, can provide emotional support and prevent feelings of isolation, which can increase the risk of relapse.

1 MONTH
Skin looks better
Blood pressure improves
Noticeable improvement in liver function
Have more energy
Relationships improve
Begin developing new rituals to replace the old ones
Days may go by without thinking about drinking
Start making new friends
You begin to feel hopeful and grateful

 Yes, it is true that quitting alcohol and maintaining sobriety can be a challenging process, but with each passing day, you become stronger and feel more empowered. However, it is important to not let complacency set in. Maintaining sobriety requires a continued effort, including staying connected and dealing with emotions that may surface after quitting drinking. Having a support system, such as a mental health professional, a sponsor in Alcoholics Anonymous, a recovery coach, or a non-judgmental friend, can help deal with the emotions and thoughts that may arise from years of conditioning. Staying connected and addressing emotional and mental health is critical to maintaining long-term sobriety.

3 MONTHS
Improved confidence
Improved concentration and memory
More energy
Your family trusts you
You get along better with your coworkers
More productive at work
More attentive as a mother
Life feels meaningful

When you reach the three-month mark of not drinking, it's a big accomplishment. During this time, it is important to continue self-care, including eating well, exercising, and avoiding triggers that could lead to relapse. It's also good to be aware of post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), a second phase of withdrawal symptoms that can occur as the brain adjusts after active addiction. PAWS can be a temporary condition, but its symptoms can contribute to relapse. Each day without drinking brings greater confidence and security in your recovery, and as time passes, you'll see your relationship with alcohol differently.

It's important to remember that quitting alcohol and overcoming addiction is a process, and there will be ups and downs along the way. However, with commitment and support, it's possible to maintain sobriety and live a healthy, fulfilling life. Having a support system, seeking help from a mental health professional, and engaging in self-care activities can greatly improve your chances of success. And with each day of sobriety, you will gain more confidence in your ability to overcome addiction. Remember, recovery is possible, and taking that first step towards a better future is the bravest and most important one.

Need help dealing with an addiction to alcohol or other drugs?  My GendHer® program is created with you in mind!

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