Do you need to learn how to stop drinking? If you or someone you love is worried about your behavior with alcohol, then you could have a drinking problem. Quitting is hard, but not impossible. Thousands of people quit drinking each day and develop new hobbies, relationships, and wonderful lives without alcohol. Here are some tips than can help you stop drinking.
Admit You Have a Problem
This is the most difficult step since nobody likes admitting a weakness. Alcohol is a powerful drug and drinking is a slippery slope. People don't set out to become addicted. If you suspect that you have a problem controlling or limiting your alcohol intake, you need to look at it honestly. Ask for feedback from friends, keep a record of how often and how much you are drinking, and be HONEST with yourself.
Find Inspiration
People give up alcohol for so many reasons but those who are motivated by a particular goal to "be a better husband" or "run a marathon" are more likely to be successful. Therefore, try to find a goal or reason to commit to and stay focused. One friend got sober so he could marry his long time girlfriend. Another friend found out his wife was pregnant. A third was tired of how sloppy she looked. Being healthy is a great reason to stay sober but whatever your reason, find inspiration.
Get Help
Never be afraid to ask for help. Hollywood stars and athletes have teams of staff behind them helping them every day. If you've tried to quit on your own and have been unsuccessful, then it is time to get help. There is no shame in this only courage about taking control of your life again. Whether you talk to a parent, friend, or a professional, it will be important to get the proper help you need to point you in a new direction.
Talk It Out
Don’t underestimate the value of asking for help and sharing your feelings. If you are struggling, then it will be very important to voice your problems instead of keeping them bottled in. If you are not in the practice of sharing your feelings, this will be challenging but letting others know how you are doing is important. For example, allow yourself to be vulnerable by letting them know you are having a tough time and need help. Your loved ones are there to support you, so talk about your situation with them.
Make a Plan
Making a plan to quit is an important step. This plan should take into account how you will quit, what you will do in the face of temptation, and how you will handle a relapse. The more detailed you make your steps, the more carefully, you will follow them. For example, you may want to start with an online alcohol education class, attend 30 AA meetings in 30 days, and throw out all the alcohol that's in your home.
