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If you’re not sure if you’re ready to change or you’re struggling with the decision, it can help to think about the costs and benefits of each choice. There’s no one right way to go about quitting drinking — it’s all about figuring out what works for you and your lifestyle. Here are a few things you should consider and actionable steps you can take. Manage your “triggers.” If certain people, places, or activities tempt you to drink more than you planned, you can avoid those triggers. For example, instead of a happy hour event with co-workers, suggest catching up at lunch instead.
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- Examples of medical conditions for which it’s safest to avoid drinking include liver disease , bipolar disorder, abnormal heart rhythm, and chronic pain.
- It’s hard to have those conversations with friends but so important.
- But why not turn it into a sort of game for yourself.
Developed by scientists and experts in mindfulness, positive psychology, and cognitive behavioral therapy, Happify’s techniques and programs aim to reduce stress and build greater resilience. A person can customize their experience by manually configuring their sober start date, habit, and notification times.
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Download your how to control drinking tracking template here . You want to have higher quality social engagements. Do the best times with your friends typically involve alcohol, bars, or a boozy brunch? Those are some of our favorite social gatherings as well. Instead, try suggesting a healthy outing and you might be surprised to find that your friends are into it as well. Remember “new” is only new for a little while.
Physical activities such as hiking, biking, skiing or shooting hoops are easy ways to socialize without a drink in hand. And when at parties or out to eat or cheering on your favorite team, sit next to those who simply don’t care what’s in your cup. “Cold turkey” refers to quitting alcohol, or any addictive substance, abruptly.
Avoid loneliness.
The more you know, the better you’ll be able to find the right solution. https://ecosoberhouse.com/ drinking has numerous impacts on your body and mind, ranging from mild to severe. Learn which signs to look out for, and how to care for your well-being. Alcohol has a way of seeping into various parts of your life, including how you spend time socializing and how you spend time by yourself. One of the most exciting—and sometimes intimidating—parts of becoming sober is discovering who you are without alcohol. But it’s also one of the most important questions you’ll answer on your road to recovery. As temptations arise or the disease of substance use disorder tells your body to give in to temptations, you’ll want to consistently return to your why.
- Many people use alcohol to cope with boredom.
- If one wants to pursue this approach, it is best not to go it alone.
- It’s like ordering a half-regular, half-diet Coke.
- A 5-ounce glass of table wine, a 12-ounce glass of regular beer, and 1½ ounces of hard liquor each contain the same amount of alcohol, and each counts as 1 drink.
Experts no longer use the word “recovery” with addiction. Instead, they discuss abstinence and remission, which can indicate recovery. People can also access morning and night prayers, 12 Steps promises on experience, hope, and strength, and notes.