How Long Does It Take to Get Sober?

The question how long does it take to get sober is a common one among individuals at various points in their recovery process. Those who have faced the challenges of chronic, heavy drinking and are now committed to quitting often find themselves questioning how soon they will start to feel better and regain mental clarity. For others, the focus may be on how long it will take to achieve lasting sobriety.

While the initial phase of getting sober can occur within hours or days, the journey toward long-term sobriety is a much more complex journey that involves ongoing self-care in addiction recovery, therapy, and support. Gaining insight into the different phases of sobriety and what lies ahead can empower those on their recovery path to remain patient and inspired.

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How Long Does It Take to Be Clinically Sober?

According to Academic Life in Emergency Medicine, a person is deemed clinically sober when a medical assessment shows a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of less than 0.08%. This level indicates that their judgment and behavior are not significantly impaired, enabling accurate clinical evaluations. The time it takes to reach clinical sobriety varies based on the amount of alcohol consumed.

On average, the body processes one standard drink in about an hour, but it may take several hours for an individual to completely metabolize the alcohol present. For those who have consumed large quantities of alcohol over a long period, immediate detoxification can last from 24 to 72 hours and may lead to severe withdrawal symptoms.

What Are the Phases of Sobriety?

While every person’s experience with sobriety is unique, there are common phases that many go through as they work to rebuild their lives and reclaim their sense of self. Understanding these phases in a sober survival guide can help provide insight into what to expect, encourage patience, and inspire hope.

The path to recovery is often a rollercoaster ride, with each phase presenting its own unique challenges and victories. According to Healthline, the recovery process generally unfolds in four key stages:

1. Abstinence Stage – This stage typically begins right after stopping drinking. During this stage, most people are focused on coping with cravings and resisting the urge to drink or use drugs. Self-care is key during this phase. Alcohol detox may be part of this phase, which can come from withdrawal symptoms. People often work on developing coping strategies, participating in self-help groups, learning to refuse substances, and finding healthier alternatives.
2. Post-Acute Withdrawal – Following the intense physical symptoms of the abstinence stage, this phase is characterized by psychological and emotional challenges. Individuals may face mood swings, anxiety, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. It’s essential to prioritize mental health during this period to prevent relapse.
3. Repair Stage – Once cravings and withdrawal symptoms are under control, the focus shifts to healing the harm caused by substance abuse. This stage allows individuals to start mending relationships, improving their careers, stabilizing finances, and enhancing their overall health. However, the risk of relapse remains as they continue to navigate cravings and emotions tied to their past.
4. Growth Stage – This final phase emphasizes personal development and progress. Individuals can cultivate new skills that significantly lower the chances of relapse. During this stage, they work on breaking harmful cycles, establishing healthy boundaries, and recognizing and managing negative thought patterns.

What Is the Hardest Day of Sobriety?

Individuals who have been consuming large amounts of alcohol daily are likely to face severe withdrawal symptoms. The initial three days following the cessation of drinking are particularly challenging, with the second day posing the highest risk for the most intense and dangerous withdrawal effects. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the alcohol sobriety timeline can be outlined as follows:

• 6-12 hours after last drink: Mild symptoms, including anxiety, tremors, sweating, headache, and nausea/vomiting begin.
• 12-24 hours after last drink: Symptoms intensify, leading to more pronounced tremors and sweating, elevated blood pressure, rapid heart rate, and in severe cases, visual and auditory hallucinations.
• 24-48 hours after last drink: Withdrawal symptoms reach their peak, with individuals at risk for the most severe effects, including Delirium Tremens (DT). Symptoms may include confusion, seizures, extreme agitation, paranoia, and potential heart failure.
• 48-72 hours after last drink: While alcohol withdrawal symptoms begin to stabilize, some individuals may still be at risk for developing DTs.

What Are Some Relapse Prevention Strategies?

Recovery from alcohol addiction is a journey of personal development filled with its share of challenges and triumphs. Relapses can occur at any point along this path, but individuals can navigate their recovery more effectively by learning and applying various coping strategies.

Many rehabilitation centers focus on teaching clients techniques for preventing relapse, which are essential for reaching their recovery objectives. Relapse prevention involves integrating strategies into daily life to help manage alcohol cravings and reduce the likelihood of returning to substance use.

Here are eight effective strategies for preventing relapse:

1. Identify Triggers and High-Risk Situations – Identify specific individuals, locations, emotions, or circumstances that may trigger a relapse. By understanding these triggers, individuals can create strategies to either avoid or cope with them effectively.
2. Develop Coping Skills – Develop healthy methods for dealing with stress and emotional pain. This can include practices like mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, journaling, or engaging in positive activities. Cognitive-behavioral techniques (CBT) can also assist in reshaping negative thought patterns that could lead to relapse.
3. Create a Support Network – Having a strong support network is vital for recovery. This network may consist of supportive friends and family, participation in groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), and guidance from therapists or counselors.
4. Practice Self-Care – Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity, nutritious meals, and sufficient rest can significantly enhance your emotional health, lowering the chances of experiencing feelings that might trigger a relapse. Establishing routines and structure can offer a sense of stability and predictability, helping to alleviate stress.
5. Set Clear Goals and Celebrate Progress – Establish short-term and long-term recovery goals to create a clear path forward. Recognizing and celebrating small victories can boost your motivation and foster a sense of accomplishment.
6. Create a Relapse Prevention Plan – This strategy should detail the actions you will take to maintain sobriety and the steps to follow if you sense a potential relapse. Your prevention plan might include emergency contacts, coping mechanisms, and a list of motivations for staying sober.
7. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management – These practices can help you stay centered and manage negative feelings without turning to substances. This can include meditation and deep breathing exercises.
8. Continuing Therapy and Counseling – Ongoing therapy and counseling offer essential support and direction, whether through individual sessions, group meetings, or a combination of both. Professional assistance can play a vital role in sustaining your sobriety.

How Long Does It Take to Get Sober? Contact WhiteSands Treatment to Find Recovery Sooner

If you or a loved one is facing the challenges of alcohol addiction and are asking how long does it take to get sober, the timeline can vary based on multiple factors. Prolonged alcohol use can complicate and extend the path to sobriety.

Still, the committed professionals at WhiteSands Treatment are here to support you throughout your recovery journey, helping you achieve your goals with increased confidence and efficiency. We provide a wide range of addiction treatment options, including medically supervised detox, inpatient care, outpatient services, and aftercare support, ensuring you have assistance at every stage.

To discover more about how WhiteSands Treatment can aid you in your recovery process, reach out to us today at 877-855-3470.

External Sources

• Cleveland Clinic – Alcohol Withdrawal
• Academic Life in Emergency Medicine – Is the Patient Sober? Clinical Sobriety versus Blood Alcohol Concentration
• Healthline – The 4 Stages of Alcohol Recovery: A Path of Healing

If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.

About the Author

Jackie has been involved in the substance abuse and addiction treatment sector for over five years and this is something that she is truly eager about. She has a passion for writing and continuously works to create informative pieces that not only educate and inform the public about the disease of addiction but also provide solutions for those who struggle with drug and alcohol abuse.