A good friend of mine was a three beer a night drinker a few nights each week. When his first child arrived he had to give up the drinking as he wasn't able to be a responsible parent if he couldn't drive in an emergency situation and his reaction times were impared.

He cold turkeyed and his only complaint was the first few nights of sleeping difficulties. He's been a non drinker since.

Good luck and you're kind to be inquiring for a pal.