It can be difficult to quit alcohol, especially when you’re suffering from alcohol dependence. However, with the proper strategies and support, you can recover from addiction and live a healthier life.
Set Clear Goals for Going Alcohol-Free
Once you’ve decided that you want to stop drinking, it’s important to set clear goals. These goals help you stay on track, and when things get tough, you can reflect on them to help you keep going. There are many reasons why you may want to stop drinking. It could be for your health, relationships, or even your finances.
Remember that vague goals won’t work when you’re trying to quit alcohol. Be specific about your goals, but break them down into smaller milestones. Maybe you want to set a timeline of going alcohol-free for one week first before setting a goal of committing to a whole year.
Identify What Triggers You to Drink Alcohol
Another step to going sober is to understand why you reach for a drink. Many people have emotional triggers, where they drink to escape stress, sadness, and other negative emotions. For others, their friends or certain places can make them crave alcohol.
One way to know what makes you drink is to keep a journal. Writing down every time you feel the urge to drink can help you identify certain patterns that point to your triggers. After identifying what prompts you to drink, plan and decide how you’ll respond to them whenever they arise.
Find Healthy, Sober Hobbies
Many people turn to alcohol use because they don’t have other healthy activities to fill their time. When drinking becomes a way to pass the time, you’re more likely to engage in alcohol abuse. Some ideas for healthy, sober activities include:
- Exercising: Walking, running, or cycling can release endorphins, boosting mood.
- Creative Outlets: If you struggle with negative emotions that lead you to drink, creative outlets like painting or writing can help relieve stress.
- Volunteering: Giving back to your community gives you a meaningful way to spend your time while avoiding alcohol use.
- Learn a New Skill: Finding a new skill, whether cooking, learning a new language, or pottery, can help give you a sense of accomplishment.
Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management
Stress is one of the most common triggers for drinking. As such, finding ways to relieve stress is important so you don’t fall into unhealthy drinking habits.
When you practice mindfulness, you’ll slowly learn to be present in the moment without judgement. When it comes to drinking, mindfulness will teach you how to recognise your urges to drink without immediately acting on them.
Join a Support Group
Joining a support group can also help you during your journey to sobriety. Support groups will provide a sense of community that will make the process of quitting alcohol less lonely. When you join a support group, you know you’re getting non-judgemental support since the people in these meetings face similar challenges.
One of the most well-known programmes that help people quit alcohol is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). During AA meetings, members follow a 12-step approach to recovery. AA meetings are free, and the only requirement for joining is to have a desire to stop drinking.
Be Prepared for Alcohol Withdrawal
Alcohol withdrawal happens when you try to quit alcohol after prolonged alcohol use. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening, so it’s important to seek a medically assisted detox during this time.
With medical detox, professionals can oversee the detox process and help ensure your safety and comfort. They will also have access to medical equipment if any complications arise during withdrawal.
Find Professional Alcohol Addiction Treatment
If you think that your drinking is getting out of hand, then it’s best to find professional alcohol addiction treatment. During professional treatment, you’ll have access to therapies and counselling services that can help you develop long-term coping strategies.
Professional treatment will provide the proper structure and guidance you need to overcome problematic drinking. Addiction is a complex condition, and addiction treatment will help you uncover any underlying issues for a safer and more effective recovery.
Be Patient With Yourself
Lastly, don’t forget to be patient with yourself during this journey. It’s never easy to quit alcohol, especially if it’s become a habit. Taking it day by day and knowing that you’ll eventually live a healthier life is a good start.
You should also remember that relapse is a normal part of recovery. This doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Instead of feeling bad about relapse, take it as an opportunity to reassess your strategies so that you can approach your sobriety with renewed determination and improved coping mechanisms.
Stop Drinking Alcohol with Sivana Bali’s Team
Seeking help for alcohol use isn’t something you should be ashamed of. It’s a sign of strength and courage. Getting proper help can help you stop drinking completely for a healthier life.
At Sivana Bali, our team is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need to quit alcohol. We will consider your needs, goals, and situation to create a personalised treatment plan that gives you the best shot at recovery. Reach out to our team today to learn how we can help.