10 Ways to Stop Drinking

Alcoholism is a severe problem that affects as many as 15 million Americans. For people without alcoholism, alcohol may not seem like an addictive substance, but anyone who has suffered from this disease can tell you that is not the case. Alcohol, while not as addictive as some other drugs, is easy to abuse and readily available for most people. This makes alcoholism a much bigger problem, statistically speaking, than all other addictive substances, excluding nicotine, combined. In fact, 74% of adults suffering from addiction are addicted to alcohol.

If you are suffering from alcoholism, then you know how destructive

this disease can be to your life and to those around you. Habitual drinking can destroy families and break homes, but there is hope. Thousands of people have stopped drinking and improve their lives. There is no reason that you can’t as well. As with any addiction, quitting is not easy, and it can come with withdrawals. Not everyone suffers from withdrawals. If your alcoholism is less severe, then you may not experience any problems, but heavy alcoholics can suffer from the shakes or even end up in the hospital.

If you are done being controlled by your addiction and ready to start your recovery, here are some options that you can try. Not all of these options are for everyone. Each person is different, and their treatment needs to reflect that. The most important thing to remember is that thousands of people have done exactly what you are trying to do. If they can do it and stay sober, there is no reason that you cannot. Have faith in yourself and get strength from those around you. You can beat this.

 

10Stop Cold Turkey

Whenever you need a boost, read your goals, and remind yourself of why you are doing this.

9Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous is the best program for people. Each person in the group is there to support everyone else in the group.

8Limit (and Record) Yourself

Always limit and count how much your drink currently and reduce it appropriately.

7Pick ‘Sober Days’

Always choose the right days in which you can drink like weekends. 

6Find a Hobby

Find a hobby to wind it up. Drinking is time-consuming and being drunk is even more so. 

5Avoid Peer Pressure

Avoid Peer Pressure while you are at the party. It is important to have the same conversation with your other friends as well. 

4Change Your Surroundings

Changing your surroundings will be valuable and helpful in giving up drinking.

3Get a Sponsor

A sponsor fills the role of a therapist to a certain degree as well as a support network.

2Individual Therapy

A therapist can help you work through the drinking problem, rather than ignoring them and harming at the same time.

1Find a Purpose

Find a purpose and a good reason for which you should stop drinking.