In an emergency
If you have severe withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, seizures, hallucinations or confusion, or you are thinking of harming yourself, get emergency help now. Call your local emergency number (911 in the US and Canada, 999 in the UK, 112 in Europe and India, 000 in Australia). More numbers are on our Crisis Support page.
1. A self-help tool only
Sober Ally is a habit-tracking and motivational tool. Its counters, recovery timelines, health-benefit statements, strength scores and craving techniques are based on public health sources and on what you enter. They are general information, not individual diagnosis or treatment, and they are not a substitute for professional care.
2. Stopping alcohol can be dangerous
Suddenly stopping alcohol after heavy or long-term use can cause alcohol withdrawal syndrome, including seizures and delirium tremens, which can be life-threatening. Speak to a doctor before you stop if you drink heavily or daily, or have had withdrawal symptoms before. Supervised medical detox may be needed. Do not use this app to decide whether it is safe to stop.
3. No clinical relationship
Using Sober Ally, or contacting us, does not create a doctor-patient, therapist-client or any other clinical relationship. We cannot respond to medical emergencies or give personal medical advice by email. Never ignore professional advice, or delay getting it, because of something in the app or on this website.
4. About the health information
Health-benefit timelines in the app each carry an evidence note and a link to the source (for example NHS, NSW Health and peer-reviewed journals). Research findings describe groups of people, and your own experience may differ. Savings, calorie and similar figures are estimates based on the numbers you provide.
5. Medication and conditions
If you take medication, are pregnant, or have a physical or mental health condition, check with your healthcare provider before changing your drinking. Do not stop or change prescribed medication because of anything in the app.
6. Getting support
- Talk to your doctor, pharmacist or a local alcohol service.
- Peer groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous or SMART Recovery can help alongside, not instead of, medical care.
- Use free helplines if you need to talk to someone now.