Quitting alcohol is rarely easy, and the best solution isn't always clear. But there are now several evidence-based solutions for alcohol addiction that can help you break free from your dependence. To stop drinking beer or any alcoholic beverage, you must first understand your relationship with the drink. From there, you may need social support, constant personal care, and new routines that can help you redirect your mind. Taking a break from alcohol for a month can be beneficial to the body.
Exploring in writing what is difficult for you and when most you want to drink can help you detect patterns that allow you to better understand your alcohol consumption. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a network of people who also want to stop drinking alcohol and who meet regularly in the community to support each other. Knowing the reasons behind drinking alcohol can help you explore alternative ways to address those problems in a more productive way. Recovering from alcoholism is about giving yourself time, taking care of yourself, finding a healthy support system, and being persistent. If you live with roommates, consider asking them to keep their alcohol out of sight rather than in shared open spaces. The result of this method is that some people completely lose interest in alcohol and end up abstaining.
Many people enter rehabilitation programs to stop drinking, especially if they feel they need a structured program that allows them to be held accountable in their attempt to maintain sobriety. Turner points out the importance of having a trusted support person when attending events that involve alcohol. If you want to quit drinking, you're not alone: at least 5.6 percent of Americans over 18 have problems with alcohol use disorder. Knowing why you drink is essential, says Cyndi Turner, LCSW, LSATP, MAC, a Virginia therapist who specializes in treating addiction and alcohol moderation. You may also be interested, in general, about the impact of alcohol on your health, your social life, and how you handle difficult feelings or anxiety. As it turns out, alcohol abuse is no exception, and telemedicine programs now offer resources such as medical counseling, recovery guidance, and even prescription medications.
Medications such as acamprosate can help you maintain abstinence, while naltrexone can help protect against relapse by neutralizing the pleasurable effects of alcohol. If you're interested in a prescription medication to help you quit drinking, see your doctor.
