Written by:
Last Updated:
November 25th, 2024
How to stop drinking
If you find yourself regularly questioning your drinking habits, taking the courageous step to explore ways to stop drinking is a powerful act of self-care and self-discovery. In a society where alcohol is so ingrained, holding a powerful grip over more than 600,000 people, quitting is easier said than done. However, Recovery Lighthouse can offer you the support and guidance you need to put the bottle down for good. With the right mindset, you can live a healthier and happier life.
Your relationship with alcohol
If you have decided to stop drinking, it is possible that you already know your relationship with alcohol is not healthy. It can, however, be useful to assess why you turn to alcohol and look at the underlying reasons for your alcohol consumption.
Some common scenarios include:
- Drinking to cope with stress
- Drinking to forget past trauma
- Drinking as a way to medicate mental health issues
- Drinking because of boredom or loneliness
- Drinking to overcome shyness or social anxiety
- Drinking because of peer pressure
In addition to this, genetics also play a role in contributing to developing an addiction to alcohol. Studies have shown that genetics play a big role in addiction, contributing to as much as half of the risk.
It is likely that a complex interplay of social, environmental and biological factors work together to fuel your alcohol consumption, and overcoming this requires a deep understanding of all the complexities at play. With this knowledge, you can find alternative coping strategies that do not involve alcohol.
The pros and cons of alcohol: is it worth it?
You may turn to alcohol as a way to unwind after a stressful day, socialise with friends, or forget about your problems. While this may seem positive in the short term, the potential for long-term harm is pronounced.
For example, drinking alcohol may ease anxiety and make you more sociable for a few hours, but the next morning feelings of anxiety will likely increase tenfold. You might worry about how you acted, feel ashamed about your drinking behaviours, and the problems you were trying to fix will still exist.
Alcohol can be responsible for the following:
- Problems in relationships
- Increased mental health issues
- Physical health problems
- Higher chances of injury and accidents
- Lower energy levels
- Poor sleeping habits
- Negatively impacting your performance at work
It is common to have apprehension before giving up alcohol – many people worry about losing friends or what they will do with their time. However, when considering the advantages and disadvantages, deciding to quit is ultimately the best choice for your well-being.
Take it step by step
Taking the leap and quitting alcohol can feel a little overwhelming at first, but by taking it step by step, you can progress towards an alcohol-free life.
The below tips can help you on your journey to sobriety:
- Share your intentions with friends and family: This can help you stay motivated and accountable and prevent any peer pressure.
- Remove alcohol from your home: Make sure that all the alcohol in your home is thrown away so that you do not get tempted.
- Avoid situations involving alcohol: It is a good idea to avoid pubs, parties and other scenarios where you might be tempted to drink, especially early in your recovery journey.
- Set goals and celebrate your achievements: Having something to aim for can help to keep you on track, and don’t forget to enjoy the successes.
- Try new hobbies and activities: Find fulfilment elsewhere by discovering hobbies you enjoy.
- Stay committed: Remember that setbacks are normal, and that does not mean you have failed – don’t let the bad days keep you from reaching your goal.
- Find professional help: Alcohol dependency and addiction is extremely difficult to overcome without professional guidance.
Remember that progress, not perfection, is key to a successful recovery. Do not punish yourself when things go wrong. Instead, use it as a learning curve to assist you on your onward journey.
Preparing for alcohol detox
Detoxing from alcohol can be unpredictable, challenging and even dangerous, so it is important to be prepared. The process can be more manageable and ultimately more successful when equipped with the knowledge and the right resources.
You can prepare for alcohol detox by:
- Attending an assisted detox facility: This will guarantee your safety and help you to manage any unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.
- Knowing what to expect: You will likely experience withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, headaches, anxiety, depression, tremors and sweating.
- Knowing the dangers: In severe cases, you may experience serious withdrawal symptoms like seizures and delirium tremens, which can be life-threatening.
- Having a support system in place: Having friends or family to talk to when things get tough can make all the difference.
- Taking care of yourself: Nourish your body with healthy food, regular exercise and enough sleep.
By being prepared for this initial stage of recovery, you lay a strong foundation to stop drinking altogether.
Alcohol addiction treatment
Enrolling in a professional addiction treatment programme gives you the best chance of success as you work towards sobriety. Inpatient rehab is renowned for producing effective results and can offer you:
- 24/7 care away from triggers and temptations
- A wide range of therapies and treatments so that you can find out what works best for you
- A safe and relaxing environment that promotes healing
- Peer support from others in addiction recovery
- Aftercare programmes that can help you transition back into everyday life
Recovery Lighthouse proudly offers high-quality care to anyone looking to quit alcohol. If drinking is negatively affecting you in any way, our expert staff can provide you with the tools you need to break free.
Freedom from alcohol
Finding freedom from alcohol gives you the opportunity to reach your full potential. You will be able to take advantage of increased energy, better health, improved relationships and a new sense of purpose. Without alcohol numbing your senses, you can experience life to the fullest.
If you are ready to turn a new chapter and tackle your alcohol addiction, the Recovery Lighthouse team is here to support you.