Withdrawal and getting medical help

Do not stop abruptly without advice

Alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal can require medical supervision. If you use either regularly and suspect dependence, contact a clinician before making a sudden change. Do not use someone else’s medication or invent a taper schedule.

Know when to get urgent help

Seizures, hallucinations, severe confusion, or severe shaking after reducing alcohol require emergency care. Other severe or rapidly worsening symptoms also need urgent assessment. Tell clinicians what you take and when you last used it.

Plan beyond the first few days

Ask where withdrawal care can happen, who to contact if symptoms worsen, and what support follows. Withdrawal care is one part of a longer plan. Counselling, medicines where appropriate, and practical support can help with what comes next.

If you are helping someone

Help arrange medical advice. Do not supervise an improvised withdrawal plan.

WARN (OTHERS)

After immediate care is covered, share dated advisories or observed concerns. Say what is confirmed and what is uncertain. Protect people’s privacy.

Emergency care comes first. Never share someone’s name, identifying photo or private health details.