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Mental health effects when you stop drinking -

The mental health changes you experience when you stop drinking can include symptoms of withdrawal and irritability. However, they will improve the longer you abstain from drinking alcohol. 

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The body starts to detox -

When you first stop drinking, your body will begin to detoxify itself. This can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including tremors, sweating, and nausea, which can range from mild to severe.

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Trouble sleeping -

Insomnia is one of the most common side effects of giving up alcohol. This is because alcohol acts as a sedative, so when it's no longer in your system, you may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.

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Irritable, anxious, or moody feelings -

These feelings are normal because alcohol is a central nervous system depressant. So, when it's no longer in your system, your body has to adjust to the change.

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Feeling happier -

Quitting alcohol can help reduce pre-existing mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. You may then find yourself feeling happier overall. 

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Mental clarity -

Another benefit of giving up alcohol is that your mind may be clearer. This is because alcohol can cause changes in brain chemistry, which can lead to cognitive problems, such as poor memory and poor concentration. 

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Physical effects when you stop drinking -

In addition to the mental benefits you'll experience when you stop drinking, there are also many physical benefits as well. 

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Self-repairing liver -

Alcohol is a toxin that can damage your liver. However, when you stop drinking, it will begin to repair itself and the damage will start to reverse.

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Better skin -

Alcohol can cause dehydration, which can lead to dry, dull skin. So, giving up alcohol can help your skin to look more glowing and hydrated.

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Less sickness -

Alcohol makes it harder for the immune system to gear up and defend the body against harmful germs. Ease up on drinking so you may better ward off illnesses.

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Lower blood pressure -

If you drink a lot and your blood pressure is too high, you might be able to bring your numbers down by giving up alcohol.

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Changing appetite -

Research has found that alcohol causes you to crave food, particularly calorie-dense food. So giving up alcohol allows you to have more control over what you eat.

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Lower cancer risks -

While more research is needed, alcohol consumption has also been linked to head, neck, esophagus, liver, breast, colon, and rectum cancers. 

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More energy -

Once the initial symptoms of withdrawal have subsided, you may find that you have more energy than when you drank. 

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Weight loss -

On top of alcohol ramping up your appetite, a glass of regular beer has about 150 calories and a serving of wine has about 120. So when you stay away from alcohol, the number on your scale may well start moving down.

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Improved fertility -

In men, excessive alcohol can lower testosterone levels, cause impotence, and affect sperm production. In women, it can affect the menstrual cycle, ovulation, and hormone levels. Some studies suggest that even low to moderate alcohol consumption can be associated with reduced fertility in both men and women. 

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Healthier heart -

Excessive alcohol intake can lead to heart failure or stroke. It can also contribute to cardiomyopathy, a disorder that affects the heart muscle. 

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A longer life -

Alcohol misuse can lead to serious health problems like liver disease and cancer. So, giving up alcohol can help you to avoid these potentially deadly diseases and increase your lifespan. 

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Other benefits when you stop drinking -

There are many important benefits for your physical and mental health when you quit drinking, but there are some other benefits as well. 

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More money -

Drinking alcohol is a costly habit, so one of the financial benefits of giving it up is that you'll likely have more money to spend or save up.

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Productivity -

Alcohol can cause fatigue and decreased motivation, so when you stop drinking, you may find it easier to get things done.

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Better relationships -

Alcohol can affect our relationships in all sorts of ways, such as conflicts, communication problems, and trust issues. So, giving up alcohol may help to improve your relationships with friends and family.

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Timeline: what happens when you quit drinking? -

If you're drinking alcohol every day but you're ready to give it up, here is a timeline of what you can expect when you stop drinking.

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After one day -

After 24 hours without alcohol, your body will start to detoxify and you may experience withdrawal symptoms. However, for those with severe alcohol dependence, withdrawal symptoms can be more severe and may require medical attention.

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After one week -

After one week without alcohol, your risk of developing cardiovascular disease will start to decrease. In the coming weeks, your liver will also begin to repair itself.

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After one month -

After one month, people will usually start to feel their best. By this point, most physical withdrawal symptoms should have subsided, and you should start to feel less anxious and more positive.

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After six months -

After half a year without drinking, you'll really notice it starting to pay off. You'll have more energy and stamina, and you may notice that your skin looks healthier. 

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After one year -

After one year, your risk of developing certain diseases will reduce and your bone density will increase. Keep in mind, however, that everyone will experience different things when they stop drinking.

Sources: (Verywell Health) (Health) (Healthline) 

See also: How to lower your alcohol consumption and still enjoy a drink

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