How Long Do Alcohol Cravings Last?

Alcohol use disorder has been in my family for decades, as has alcohol dependence. Many of the people closest to me have been to treatment facilities—several times. I’m no stranger to how bumpy the recovery journey can be. And I’m all too familiar with the little challenges along the way. One of the ones I’ve heard most often? A craving for alcohol. I must’ve heard the question, “How long do alcohol cravings last?” at least a dozen times.

Let’s first set the record straight: These cravings are to be expected. After all, your body did get used to the substance—which has been proven to be addicting. From my familial experience with addiction, I’ve also learned that it’s best to have open lines of communication. For instance, if you’re having cravings for alcohol, talk to your family or friends. They’ll be able to divert your attention and keep you on the straight and narrow.

Keep reading if you need a little more help, are wondering how long alcohol cravings last, or want to manage those cravings.

How Long Do Alcohol Cravings Last?

It’s important to understand what alcohol cravings are. This way, you’ll be able to recognize the signs early on. We’ll explain what those signs might be and follow that info up with tips for curbing alcohol cravings.

What Is Alcohol Craving?

According to the National Institute On Alcohol Abuse And Alcoholism, alcohol cravings can manifest as “thoughts, physical sensations, or emotions that tempt you to drink.” Alcohol cravings aren’t much different than the cravings that you’d have for, say, chocolate. It’s just something in your brain that makes you want it.

How Long Does Craving For Alcohol Last?

People experience alcohol cravings differently. If your cravings have to do with withdrawal, they’ll usually be gone in four to five days. That said, it’s possible that the urge to drink will stick around for the long haul. But I mean, hey, the benefits of sobriety are definitely worth not giving in to those cravings.

You might’ve come across the term “post-acute withdrawal syndrome,” otherwise known as “PAWS.” This is precisely what it sounds like: the experience you body goes through after a long period of drinking. One thing to know here is that the symptoms of PAWS are more mental than physical.

Regardless of how the symptoms take place, it’d be helpful to know how to prevent them altogether. To that end, we explore four steps for avoiding alcohol cravings.

How To Stop Alcohol Cravings

Find a support group.

Managing alcohol cravings is definitely easier said than done, but it helps to have a support group. It may be an AA group or simply someone in your life you trust. The key is to feel like you can rely on them to distract you from consuming alcohol.

Work on your coping skills.

I realize this may sound a bit harsh, so please hear me out. I’ve been around alcohol addictions enough to know that the underlying issue is almost always related to mental health. Alcohol addiction doesn’t exist in a vacuum, so it’s important to be in touch with your emotions. To do this successfully, you’ll need the proper coping skills.

Remind yourself that you can enjoy life sober.

If you decided to stop drinking and are wondering how to enjoy life sober, allow us to provide some suggestions. You can be at one with nature by going on a hike. Or you might consider picking up a new hobby, maybe one you enjoyed as a kid. Just remember to have fun, since the goal is relapse prevention. The last thing you want is to stress yourself out.

Enjoy a non-alcoholic beverage.

One thing that’s been wildly helpful to my sober friends and family members are non-alcoholic substitutes. For example, a great friend of mine loves her zero-proof rosé on a sunny day. A marathoner friend of mine will celebrate the race with a non-alcoholic Athletic Brewing beer. And when I’m feeling boozy but don’t want the hangover, I’ll grab a kombucha or probiotic soda.

So hang in there just a bit longer if you can. And when you feel like you’re about to cave, call a friend; test your coping skills; enjoy sobriety; and have a non-alcoholic drink.