What’s the Best Way to Quit Drinking? Exploring Your Options

The first step is often the hardest—but saying no can open the door to something better.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but there is a path that fits you.

If you're ready to stop drinking, you might be asking: What’s the best way to actually do it?

The problem is, everyone seems to have a different opinion. Go cold turkey. Ease out gradually. Try AA. Do a detox. Book a month in rehab. Just cut down.

It’s confusing—and for many people, it’s also paralysing. This article breaks down the most common approaches to quitting alcohol, the pros and cons of each, and how to choose a path that actually works for you.

Quick Answer: The best way to quit drinking is the one that meets your needs, goals, and lifestyle—with professional support.

Quitting isn’t about forcing yourself into a model that doesn’t fit. It’s about understanding what’s realistic for you—and getting the right tools to make it work.

1. Cold Turkey: Going All-In Immediately

This is often the first method people try—stopping overnight with no tapering or structured support.

Pros:

• Fast and clear-cut

• Works well for people with strong motivation and low physical dependence

• Appeals to all-or-nothing thinkers

Cons:

• Can be dangerous for heavy or long-term drinkers

• No structure, no plan, no support

• Relapse is common without tools or guidance

  
  

Also read: What to Expect in the First Week of Quitting Alcohol

2. Gradual Tapering or Cutting Back

Some people reduce their intake over time to avoid withdrawal symptoms or build confidence.

Pros:

• May ease physical discomfort

• Can feel less intimidating

• Allows you to observe drinking patterns and emotional triggers

Cons:

• Easy to justify “just one more”

• Often leads to prolonged cycles of back-and-forth

• Still requires structure, goals, and support

  
  

Also read: Why Moderation Often Fails: The Truth About Cutting Back on Alcohol

3. Residential Rehab

Traditional inpatient programs offer intensive support, structure, and detox in a controlled setting.

Pros:

• Safe environment for severe addiction

• Access to medical support and group therapy

• Full immersion in recovery

Cons:

• Disruptive to work, family, and life

• Often expensive

• May feel too rigid or impersonal for functioning individuals

  
  

4. Outpatient or At-Home Rehab Alternatives

Modern programs like Reset My Future offer professional guidance without needing to check into a facility.

Pros:

• Private, flexible, and designed to fit real life

• One-on-one support without group sessions

• Tailored to your goals (abstinence or moderation)

Cons:

• Requires self-responsibility and motivation

• Still a commitment—you have to show up for yourself

Also read: Inpatient V Outpatient Rehab: What's Right for You

You don’t have to leave your life to get help—online support can be structured, personal, and life-changing.

How to Choose What’s Right for You

Ask yourself:

• Do I need help managing withdrawal symptoms?

• Have I tried to quit before—and what went wrong?

• Am I functioning day-to-day, or is alcohol affecting my responsibilities?

• Do I want to quit entirely, or explore controlled drinking with support?

• Would I benefit from daily structure—or more flexibility?

  
  

The Reset My Future Approach

If you’re functioning on the outside but struggling privately, Reset My Future might be the right fit.

We offer a 12-week, private, one-on-one coaching program that helps you:

• Stop or cut back drinking

• Handle cravings, urges, and triggers

• Reset the way you think about alcohol—and your future

• Get support without group therapy or inpatient stays

Book a free consultation today to find the right path forward.