Supports and services are available for people who want help quitting or cutting back on drinking alcohol. Decreasing the amount you drink or stopping drinking can improve your health and wellbeing.
Supports and Services Are Available
Addiction and Substance Use Support
- Find an addiction facility near you.
- Call the Access Line at 1-800-563-4086 or click here to learn about residential detox facilities in Connecticut.
- Attend an AA meeting.
- People who have been affected by a loved one’s alcohol use can attend an Al-Anon or Alateen meeting.
- CT Community for Addiction Recovery offers a range of recovery support services.
Free apps for alcohol moderation, tracking, and sobriety:
If you or a loved one want to stop drinking but need help to do it, call the Access Line 800-563-4086.
If you are chemically dependent on alcohol and suddenly stop drinking, convulsions or seizures can occur within six to 48 hours. This can become dangerous if not medically treated.
If you are a heavy drinker and want to quit, consult a trained medical professional or a facility that specializes in alcohol and drug treatment, and be honest about your usual alcohol intake. You can also contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.
Thinking about cutting back on your own? Learn tips, tricks, and strategies to cut back or quit drinking alcohol.
Learn MoreTalking to Your Doctor
Your doctor may be able to help you with medications or other treatment to help you quit drinking. Three medications are currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to help people stop or reduce their drinking and prevent relapse: naltrexone (oral and long-acting injectable), acamprosate, and disulfiram. All of these medications are non-addictive, and they may be used alone or combined with behavioral treatments or mutual-support groups.
If you decide to talk with your doctor, be open about your alcohol use and give as many details as you can. This can help them see if you have AUD or if you’re at risk for it. It will also help them choose the best care for you.
If you’re worried or embarrassed about telling your doctor about your alcohol use, it may be a good idea to bring someone with you who’s close to you. They can provide details about your drinking that you might be uncomfortable sharing. You can also write down any questions you have about your alcohol use and any health problems it might be causing.