What Life Looks Like the Day You Stop Drinking
So, you’ve decided to stop abusing alcohol start your journey to sobriety? Congratulations! Sobriety is an opportunity – the beginning of your journey towards a better mental health and physical health balance. For some, the idea of allowing yourself a fresh start can feel exciting. For others it may feel more daunting. What does sobriety look like the second you put down your last drink? Below is a well-rounded timeline that outlines what you may experience as you stop using and start your path towards sobriety.
12-24 Hours No Alcohol
After your first 12-24 hours without alcohol, you may begin to start feeling the preliminary effects of alcohol withdrawal. Some common symptoms include: anxiety, insomnia, nausea, and abdominal pain. Also, because alcohol has a diuretic effect on the body, you may be feeling more dehydrated than you normally should.
To help you out during the first day, make sure to drink plenty of water and eat plenty of healthy food. Good nutrition is always a must, but could potentially help you more these next few hours. One positive during this time frame is that your blood sugar begins to normalize, starting your body’s detox process.
24-48 Hours No Alcohol
This time frame may be the most climactic in terms of withdrawal symptom onset. Some common symptoms you may experience include: high blood pressure, increased body temperature, breathing abnormalities, irregular heart rate, sweating, confusion, irritability, and mood disturbances.
Some less common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can also occur. The term for this grouping of symptoms is delirium tremens (DTs). Delirium tremens (DTs) only occurs in 3-5% of those experiencing alcohol withdrawal, but the symptoms are worth mentioning. The symptoms of DTs include: hallucinations, fever, agitation, severe confusion, and seizures. These symptoms may occur without warning. Without medical treatment, DTs can be fatal. If you used frequently, regularly, and in high quantities, you should complete your detox under the watch of a medical professional to ensure early treatment if you do have any of these symptoms.
Do not fret – after the 48-hour mark, the biggest alcohol detox hurdle is over! Blood pressure and body temperature should both begin to normalize, and things should be looking up from here.
2 Days No Alcohol
After 2 days without alcohol, the body begins to undergo significant changes. The first sign of the body’s adjustment to sobriety is often felt within these initial 48 hours. 2 days no alcohol allows for the beginning stages of detoxification to take place, as the liver starts to clear out toxins and the body begins to rehydrate. Physically, individuals may notice improved sleep patterns and increased energy levels as their bodies recover from the impact of alcohol. Mentally, clarity and focus may start to return, as the fog of alcohol consumption begins to lift. 2 days no alcohol marks the beginning of a journey towards better health and well-being, providing an opportunity for the body and mind to reset and rejuvenate.
3 Days No Alcohol
Depending on how much you drank, you may start to feel better. By now you might be feeling back to your normal self physically and mentally. Generally speaking, you might be done feeling the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, or at least beginning to notice them going away. If you used constantly and never allowed your body time without alcohol, then you probably are still experiencing symptoms at full force. Food cravings related to alcohol (primarily cravings for carbohydrate rich foods) may also begin to subside.
4 Days No Alcohol
After 4 days no alcohol, the body undergoes further positive transformations as it continues to adapt to a sober lifestyle. The effects of 4 days no alcohol become increasingly evident as the body’s detoxification process progresses. Physically, individuals may notice continued improvements in sleep patterns, energy levels, and overall vitality, as the body becomes increasingly free from the toxins associated with alcohol consumption. 4 days no alcohol also fosters continued mental clarity and emotional stability, as the brain continues to recalibrate its chemistry without the influence of alcohol. Additionally, individuals may experience a sense of accomplishment and empowerment as they surpass the four-day mark, solidifying their commitment to sobriety and embracing the benefits of a healthier lifestyle. 4 days no alcohol marks a significant milestone on the journey towards lasting wellness and self-discovery.
5 Days No Alcohol
After 5 days no alcohol, the body continues its remarkable journey toward recovery and rejuvenation. The impact of 5 days no alcohol becomes even more profound as the body’s healing processes intensify. Physically, individuals may notice a further improvement in their overall health, including enhanced digestion, clearer skin, and increased hydration levels. 5 days no alcohol also brings about continued mental clarity and emotional stability, allowing individuals to navigate life with increased focus and resilience. Also, the body’s immune system receives a significant boost, helping to ward off illnesses and promote overall well-being. 5 days no alcohol represents a pivotal moment in the path to sobriety, signifying a commitment to positive change and a renewed sense of vitality and purpose.
6 Days No Alcohol
After 6 days no alcohol, the body begins to undergo significant changes as it continues to adapt to sobriety. The impact of 6 days no alcohol becomes increasingly evident as the body’s detoxification process deepens. Physically, individuals may notice further improvements in their overall health, including better sleep quality, increased energy levels, and improved digestion. 6 days no alcohol also allows for continued mental clarity and emotional stability, as the brain and nervous system rebalance without the influence of alcohol. Additionally, individuals may experience a sense of accomplishment and empowerment as they surpass the six-day mark, reinforcing their commitment to sobriety and embracing the benefits of a healthier lifestyle. 6 days no alcohol marks a significant milestone on the journey toward long-term wellness and self-discovery.
7 Days No Alcohol
After 7 days no alcohol, the body undergoes remarkable transformations as it adapts to a sober lifestyle. The impact of 7 days no alcohol becomes palpable as the body’s detoxification process reaches a significant milestone. Physically, individuals may notice profound improvements in their overall well-being, including better sleep patterns, increased energy levels, and a clearer complexion. 7 days no alcohol also fosters continued mental clarity and emotional stability, as the brain recalibrates its chemistry without the interference of alcohol. Additionally, individuals often experience a sense of pride and accomplishment as they surpass the seven-day mark, solidifying their commitment to sobriety and embracing the positive changes in their lives. 7 days no alcohol marks a pivotal moment in the journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling existence.
8 Days No Alcohol
After 8 days no alcohol, the body continues its transformative journey towards sobriety and well-being. The impact of 8 days no alcohol becomes increasingly profound as the body’s detoxification process progresses further. Physically, individuals may notice significant improvements in their overall health, such as stabilized blood sugar levels, better hydration, and enhanced immune function. 8 days no alcohol also fosters continued mental clarity and emotional resilience, as individuals gain a deeper sense of control over their thoughts and emotions. Another significant impact is that reaching the eight-day milestone often brings a sense of accomplishment and empowerment, reinforcing the commitment to a life free from alcohol’s influence. 8 days no alcohol signifies a significant achievement on the path to long-term health and happiness.
9 Days No Alcohol
After 9 days no alcohol, the body undergoes further profound changes as it continues to adapt to a life without alcohol. The impact of 9 days no alcohol becomes even more noticeable as the body’s detoxification process continues to unfold. Physically, individuals may experience enhanced vitality, improved digestion, and a strengthened immune system, reflecting the body’s resilience and ability to heal. 9 days no alcohol also fosters ongoing mental clarity and emotional stability, allowing individuals to navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience and focus. Furthermore, reaching the nine-day milestone often brings a sense of pride and accomplishment, reinforcing the commitment to sobriety and a healthier lifestyle. 9 days no alcohol signifies a significant achievement on the journey toward lasting well-being and self-discovery.
10 Days No Alcohol
After 10 days no alcohol, the body continues to undergo remarkable transformations as it adapts to sobriety. The impact of 10 days no alcohol becomes increasingly profound as the body’s detoxification process progresses further. Physically, individuals may notice significant improvements in their overall health, including better sleep quality, increased energy levels, and a more balanced metabolism. 10 days no alcohol also fosters continued mental clarity and emotional stability, as individuals experience a newfound sense of control and well-being. In addition, reaching the 10-day milestone often brings a sense of accomplishment and empowerment, reinforcing the commitment to a life free from alcohol’s influence. 10 days no alcohol marks a significant achievement on the path to long-term health and happiness, signaling the beginning of a renewed and healthier lifestyle.
15 Days No Alcohol
After 15 days no alcohol, the body undergoes a profound metamorphosis, signaling substantial progress on the journey to sobriety. The impact of 15 days no alcohol becomes increasingly evident as the body continues its detoxification process, leading to notable improvements in overall well-being. Physically, individuals often experience enhanced clarity of skin, improved digestion, and increased stamina. 15 days no alcohol also fosters continued mental clarity and emotional resilience, allowing individuals to confront life’s challenges with newfound strength. Moreover, reaching the 15-day milestone is a significant achievement, solidifying the commitment to sobriety and embracing the positive changes that have unfolded. 15 days no alcohol represents a critical stage in the ongoing pursuit of lasting health and a renewed sense of self.
20 Days No Alcohol
After 20 days no alcohol, the body undergoes a remarkable transformation, reaching a significant milestone in the journey towards sobriety. The impact of 20 days no alcohol becomes increasingly apparent as the body continues to rid itself of toxins and heal. Physically, individuals often experience heightened energy levels, improved sleep quality, and a more robust immune system. 20 days no alcohol also fosters continued mental clarity and emotional stability, allowing individuals to navigate life with increased resilience and focus. Reaching the 20-day milestone is a notable achievement, symbolizing a sustained commitment to sobriety and a healthier lifestyle. 20 days no alcohol marks a crucial phase in the ongoing pursuit of lasting well-being, showcasing the positive changes that have unfolded and the potential for continued growth and transformation.
One Month No Alcohol
One month without alcohol should start to make a change on your liver. Liver fat can reduce, on average by 15%, allowing for improved function and a better ability to filter out toxins. The liver has finally gotten back to the point where it can do its job!
The fat doesn’t just start coming off of your liver, as by this time you may also begin to notice a decrease in belly fat. Alcohol contains many empty calories and increases appetite – one month without may start showing results on the waistline. The biggest improvement for your skin health generally occurs around the four-week mark as well.
Away from vanity, some positive changes for your mental health should also be made around this time. If you haven’t already, you should begin to seek out support for your recovery efforts. Whether it be a group, a therapist who specializes in addiction, or another addiction related professional, support during this time will help prevent a relapse. On average, the first six months of sobriety are the most difficult and have the highest rate of relapse. Getting support early on will help decrease that likelihood for you.
One Year No Alcohol
By now, your liver should be fully restored to peak functioning. Also, many lose a significant amount of belly fat by this point, on average 13 lbs. Lastly, but arguably most importantly, your risk lowers drastically for mouth, liver, and breast cancer.
One year and beyond, you’ve made it so far on your journey towards sobriety. Keep moving forward and never forget how far you’ve come. Take some time to reflect on this process and every step you’ve actively made along the way to improve your physical and mental well-being.
One year down, forever to go.
If you need any support during your recovery from alcohol addiction, we at Williamsville Wellness are here to help.