Stopping drinking
Stopping drinking can be the right decision, but if you are dependent on alcohol the way you stop matters.
Before you stop If your body may be dependent on alcohol, get medical advice before you stop.
If you drink heavily every day, drink to stop shakes or anxiety, or have had withdrawal before, get medical advice before stopping.
Contact your GP practice or a local alcohol service and tell them how much you drink and what happens when you go without alcohol. They can assess whether you need medical help to stop safely.
Read about alcohol dependence → Drinkline Scotland — 0800 7314 314 Call Find local alcohol and drug services in Scotland ↗Withdrawal risk Withdrawal can begin after alcohol levels start to fall.
Symptoms can range from shaking and sweating to severe confusion, hallucinations or seizures.
If withdrawal symptoms start, contact your GP. If your GP is closed and you need urgent advice, phone NHS 24 on 111. Severe confusion, hallucinations, seizures or collapse are emergencies — phone 999 or go to A&E.
Read about withdrawal → NHS 24 — 111 for urgent care when it is not life-threatening CallPlanning the first days Practical preparation can make the first days safer and easier.
Tell someone you trust what you are doing.
Arrange medical support if you may be dependent.
Keep food and non-alcoholic drinks available.
Avoid driving if you feel unwell or shaky.
Keep your GP, NHS 24 and emergency numbers where you can find them quickly.
Do not try to push through serious withdrawal alone.
If you are not sure whether it is safe to stop on your own, phone Drinkline Scotland or contact a local alcohol service before you begin.
Drinkline Scotland — 0800 7314 314 CallWhat happens after stopping Sleep, mood and energy can be unsettled before they improve.
Stopping alcohol does not solve every problem immediately. Recovery often means rebuilding routines, health and support as well as not drinking.
If staying stopped is difficult, you do not have to do it alone. Alcoholics Anonymous has free meetings across Scotland, and local alcohol services can offer treatment and ongoing support.
Read about recovery → Alcoholics Anonymous — 0800 9177 650 Call Find an AA meeting near you ↗Getting help Help can range from GP advice to specialist alcohol treatment.
The right level of help depends on your drinking, withdrawal risk, health and what has happened when you have tried to stop before.
Start with your GP, Drinkline Scotland or a local alcohol service. They can help you work out whether you need medical withdrawal support, specialist treatment, counselling or longer-term recovery support.
Read about getting help → Find alcohol support and local services in Scotland ↗