Substance guides
The best way to quit drinking according to Reddit and science
What actually worked for you? is the most repeated question on r/stopdrinking. Here are the methods that the community and the evidence both support.
Method 1: Medical detox (when you MUST)
If you drink heavily daily and have experienced withdrawal symptoms (tremors, sweating, anxiety when you stop), medical detox is not optional. It is potentially lifesaving. Alcohol withdrawal can cause seizures and death. The community is emphatic about this: do not try to white-knuckle it if you have physical dependence. Medical detox uses benzodiazepines to prevent seizures, monitors vitals, and manages symptoms. It typically lasts 5-7 days. Call SAMHSA or go to an ER if you are physically dependent.
Method 2: Medication (the most underused tool)
Fewer than 10% of people with alcohol use disorder receive medication despite strong evidence. Naltrexone reduces the rewarding effects of alcohol and cuts heavy drinking days by 25%. Available as a daily pill or monthly injection (Vivitrol). Acamprosate reduces post-acute cravings. Disulfiram (Antabuse) creates an aversive reaction when you drink. The Sinclair Method (taking naltrexone one hour before drinking) has growing evidence and a passionate following on Reddit. The community's message: ask your doctor about medication. Most people do not know these options exist.
Method 3: Cold turkey with support (for many)
For people without physical dependence (not daily heavy drinkers), stopping without medical intervention is appropriate. But cold turkey does not mean alone. The community recommends: tell at least one person, attend r/stopdrinking daily, use HALT and play the tape forward for cravings, read This Naked Mind or Alcohol Explained, and consider therapy. White-knuckling in isolation has the lowest success rate of any approach.
Method 4: Community support (AA, SMART, Reddit)
AA works for many people. SMART Recovery works for people who prefer CBT-based, secular approaches. Reddit provides 24/7 anonymous peer support. Many community members use multiple pathways simultaneously. The evidence is clear: ongoing community engagement significantly reduces relapse regardless of which specific community you choose.
The Reddit consensus
Combining approaches works best. Medication plus community plus therapy produces better outcomes than any single intervention. There is no one right way. There is only the way that works for you, and finding it may require trying several approaches. Search our directory for treatment options near you.
Need help?
SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357 (free, 24/7) | Treatment Directory