We understand sometimes it won’t be easy, but we are here to support you all the way. The hangovers, the isolation, the relationship issues—you could be facing a number of problems that have you questioning how to stop drinking. Often, the situation and environment can lead individuals to drink. Learn how to rehab from alcohol at home by creating a new environment that doesn’t encourage you to drink.

This may mean giving up certain friends and social connections. I will stop drinking on weekdays, starting as tips to quit drinking of __________. Once you’ve made the decision to change, the next step is establishing clear drinking goals.

Cull your friends

If you have alcohol use disorder, getting medical help is important. Dr. Streem says that if your goal is to stop drinking altogether, you’re more likely to have success quitting all at once, rather than weaning off alcohol. But that advice changes if you’re living with alcohol use disorder. It can be tricky to handle social situations as you cut back on drinking, especially if you’re around other people who are drinking or who are used to you drinking. As with any part of this process, go in with a plan.

• Based on the number of symptoms a person experiences, their AUD may be mild, moderate, or severe.
• What’s most important is taking a look at your drinking habits and finding a way to cut back that works for you.
• You may have some negative stereotypes about people who drink too much, but addiction and binge-drinking are health issues that can affect anyone.
• Use the NIAAA’s drink size calculator to determine the amount of alcohol in various drinks.

It’s best to talk to your doctor or medical provider before attempting cold turkey on your own. Goals can help you stay on track, but sometimes one big goal feels too out of reach. Consider https://ecosoberhouse.com/ setting smaller goals for yourself — and celebrate them as you go. Rather than one overarching “I want to quit drinking” goal, start by telling yourself you’re going to cut back.

Consider how your drinking affects your health.

On a night that you might usually go out, plan a treat like a fantastic bath or a book you’ve been looking forward to. Or, make dinner with a friend who supports your sobriety. Worried about an upcoming event you’d normally binge at? Bring a friend who’s aware and supportive of your choice to stop drinking, and make sure they’re abstaining along with you. For anyone with an alcohol use disorder, giving up alcohol forever is the only sustainable choice for a plan to move forward.

Finally, think about getting outdoors where you might try hiking, gardening, or simply reading in a park. Involving others in your choice to cut back or stop drinking can immensely benefit in your recovery from alcohol addiction. Additionally, sharing your intentions with others can help make positive changes regarding alcohol use in their own lives. Sharing with friends and family allows them to support and encourage you on your journey. Belinda Gordon-Battle is a licensed clinical therapist and life consultant based in Miami while providing therapeutic services across the globe.

Staying Healthy

What places, experiences, and emotions make it hardest to resist picking up the bottle? Come up with some strategies ahead of time that you can use in these difficult situations, so you don’t have to improvise on the spot. Knowing all the negative effects alcohol has on your physical and mental health can make it easier to understand why you’re better off without it. Most people who successfully cut down or stop drinking altogether do so only after several attempts.

• Painting, board games, playing a musical instrument, woodworking — these and other activities are great alternatives to drinking.
• If you feel comfortable doing so, talk about your challenges with your primary healthcare professional.
• Create a polite but firm way of refusing a drink when you are offered one.
• Remember that recovery can be uncomfortable and that it’s important to have patience and compassion for yourself through this time.

Alcoholism addiction treatment will depend on various factors. For individuals who suffer from moderate to severe alcohol use disorder, it may be beneficial to explore rehabilitation options such as inpatient or residential facilities. You may experience confusion, racing heart, high blood pressure, fever, and heavy sweating during this time. Alcohol withdrawal can be fatal, making it important to monitor your symptoms.