Yes ....and No. I was very aware I could die this last time as I was an around-the-clock drinker and a lot of it (30+ units per day) so I tapered. It was surprisingly event free. Sketchy sleep for 2 nights and some unresolved GI issues (probably more from the constant drinking than the quitting). I took a lot of supplements depleted by alcohol also and believe it helped. It was damage control for me. Head and body were messed up enough from the drinking--didn't want to lose anymore. 5 years ago I tried cold turkey and didn't sleep at all, had extreme paranoia, delusions, sweats and shakes for 3 days and drank on day 5. Never again will I have to do either. The detox center I was trying to get into last Feb wanted me at least 8 hrs. w/out so I would have symptoms. I was not able to go 6 w/out serious WD. That was when I started researching. In late may I started and on june 11th it was a done deal. Tapering saved my life.