Information: Help to Stop Using Alcohol or Drugs

To stop using alcohol or drugs, it is important to get professional help due to potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms. A personalized plan with medical supervision is the safest and most effective approach.

First, talk to a doctor, counselor or treatment center

  • For safety during withdrawal: Quitting “cold turkey” can be extremely dangerous, especially for alcohol and opioids. Medical professionals can manage withdrawal symptoms, sometimes with medication, to make the process safer and more comfortable.
  • To create a plan: An addiction specialist will evaluate your specific situation and needs to create a treatment plan that’s right for you. They can also address any co-occurring issues like anxiety or depression.

Alcoholics Anonymous

A.A. has a simple program that works. It’s based on one alcoholic helping another.

Narcotics Anonymous

An addict, any addict, can stop using drugs, lose the desire to use, and find a new way to live.

Smart Recovery

An evidence-informed approach to overcoming addictive behaviors and leading a balanced life.

Different approaches that are often combined

  • Detoxification (Detox): The initial process of clearing the substance from your body. It can be done in a hospital or specialized facility, or sometimes at home under medical supervision.
  • Inpatient or Residential Treatment: A live-in program where you receive intensive, 24/7 care in a structured, drug-free environment. This can be helpful if you need to be removed from triggers.
  • Outpatient Treatment: Allows you to live at home while attending therapy and counseling sessions at a facility. This offers more flexibility and is suitable for those with strong support systems at home.
  • Therapy and Counseling: Behavioral therapies, like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), may help you identify triggers, change unhealthy thinking patterns, and develop new coping strategies.
  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Certain medications may help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings for specific substances, like alcohol or opioids. This is typically used in combination with counseling.

Habits for long-term recovery

  • Build a support system: Surround yourself with family, friends, or others in recovery who support your sobriety. You may need to distance yourself from people and situations that encourage use.
  • Join a support group: Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), or SMART Recovery offer a network of peers who understand your struggle.
  • Identify and avoid triggers: Figure out what people, places, and feelings make you want to use. Remove alcohol or drugs from your home and practice ways to say “no”.
  • Find new hobbies: Fill the time that was once spent on using with new, positive activities. This can include exercise, creative pursuits, or volunteering.
  • Create a daily routine: Establishing healthy habits like a regular sleep schedule, balanced diet, and exercise can help manage stress and improve your mood.
  • Develop a plan for cravings: Recognize that cravings are temporary and practice coping skills to ride them out, a technique called “urge surfing”.

A relapse is a setback, not a failure.

  • Re-focus on your plan: Remind yourself of your reasons for quitting. A setback is a chance to learn what went wrong so you can adjust your plan.
  • Talk to your support network: Reach out to your doctor, sponsor, or support group for help getting back on track

The information is adapted from text generated by Gemini.” Gemini, Google, 19 Nov 2025 and from OpenAI on 01/19/2026 using “Describe how to stop using alcohol or drugs in plain language with resources in Chicago Illinois”

This information provides no warranties regarding the accuracy or application of its content, disclaims responsibility for its use, and does not offer medical or legal advice. It does not endorse specific products or therapies, mandate medical care, or represent the standard of care. The information may not be continually updated, and it is not a substitute for the professional judgment of a treating provider. Provided “as is,” it makes no express or implied warranties, assumes no responsibility for any harm arising from its use, and disclaims liability for errors or omissions.