When it comes to substance abuse, it is up to the individual to decide when it is time to cut down or quit drinking. If you can stick to one or two drinks and no more, then you can reduce your consumption to a low-risk drinking pattern. However, if you find that those first two drinks make you want to drink more and you rarely drink just two, moderation may not be an option. No matter what decision you make regarding your drinking habits, there is support available to help you reach your goals.
Many people decide to quit drinking and seek help because they have lost the ability to control how much they drink. If you are unable to quit drinking 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. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), there are other reasons why quitting drinking may be a better option than moderating or reducing your consumption. If you are having difficulty quitting drinking, it may be beneficial to seek support.
If you are trying to reduce your consumption but find that you cannot stay within the limits you have set for yourself, it may be best to stop drinking altogether. The mission of SAMHSA is to lead public health and service delivery initiatives that promote mental health, prevent substance abuse, and provide treatment and support to promote recovery, while ensuring equitable access and better outcomes. If you have been drinking at a level that is considered high-risk or excessive, it may be wise to consider changing your drinking patterns or quitting drinking altogether. Just as there are support groups for those trying to quit drinking, there are also support groups for those trying to reduce or moderate their alcohol consumption.
