Understanding your relationship with alcohol is the first step to quitting drinking. It's important to recognize the triggers that lead to drinking and to develop new routines that can help you redirect your mind. Having a strong physical and emotional state can increase your resilience and help you face the challenges that make you want to drink. If you have difficulty quitting on your own, have an alcohol use disorder, or experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking, attending an alcohol rehabilitation center may be the best option for you.
When alcohol is part of your regular routine, it can become an automatic response, especially when you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Having a support system in place can help motivate you and increase your responsibility. You don't need to completely reinvent your life to stop drinking, but making some changes to your environment to help avoid alcohol triggers can make a big difference. Talking openly about your relationship with alcohol can also encourage others to explore their own drinking habits.
Write down your reasons for quitting and keep them handy as a physical reminder when you need motivation. Telling others about your decision to stop drinking can also help keep you on track. Aftercare is ongoing support to help you stay sober during the transition to life after treatment and may include follow-up appointments, attending mutual help meetings, living in recovery housing, or ongoing counseling sessions. Knowing more about the triggers of alcohol consumption and the reasons why you drink can help you plan ways to control the urge to drink.
Keeping a diary is also a great way to list the reasons why you want to quit drinking and brainstorm activities that can replace alcohol consumption. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) works to lead public health initiatives that promote mental health, prevent substance abuse, and provide treatment and support for recovery. Knowing the reasons behind drinking alcohol can help you explore alternative ways to address those problems more productively.
