How to stop drinking alcohol

When to understand that you need a break from alcohol

In a world where alcohol is often the centrepiece of social gatherings, celebrations and even casual get-togethers, it’s no wonder it can be tough to recognise when it’s time to step back. The accessibility and cultural prominence of alcohol mean it’s easy to overlook the signs that indicate a break might be beneficial. Taking a small break from alcohol doesn’t necessarily mean you have a problem; it can simply be a way to reset, recharge and reflect on your relationship with drinking.

Here are some signs that suggest that you could benefit from a break from alcohol:

• Frequent drinking: You notice that you’re drinking more days of the week than not, even if it’s just a glass or two.
• Relying on alcohol to unwind: You often turn to alcohol to relax after a stressful day rather than other activities.
• Health concerns: You experience frequent hangovers, sleep disturbances or other physical symptoms related to drinking.
• Mood changes: Your mood or behaviour changes noticeably when drinking or when you haven’t had a drink.
• Social pressure: You feel compelled to drink in social situations, even when you don’t particularly want to.
• Financial impact: You’re spending more money on alcohol than you’d like, impacting your budget for other essentials.
• Personal reflection: You’ve started to question whether your drinking is becoming too much or you feel guilty about your drinking.

How to maintain your break from alcohol

Maintaining a break from alcohol can be challenging, especially when faced with social events where drinking is prevalent, like weddings or birthdays. It’s also tough when alcohol has become a part of your routine for relaxation after work or on weekends. However, there are strategies you can employ to stick to your goal and enjoy the benefits of a break.

Firstly, prepare for social situations. If you know you’ll be attending an event where alcohol will be flowing, consider bringing your own non-alcoholic beverages. This way, you have something to hold and sip on, which can help you feel more comfortable and avoid the pressure to drink. You can also let a trusted friend or family member know about your decision to take a break. Having their support can make a significant difference in staying committed.

Another effective strategy is to find alternative ways to relax. If you usually unwind with a drink, replace that habit with a healthier activity. This could be anything from taking a walk, practising yoga, reading a book or engaging in a hobby you enjoy. These activities can help reduce stress and provide a sense of fulfilment without the need for alcohol.

It’s also helpful to set clear goals and reminders. Write down the reasons why you decided to take a break and keep them visible, whether it’s a note on your fridge or a reminder on your phone. This can serve as a constant motivator and reinforce your commitment to staying alcohol-free. Additionally, setting short-term goals, like staying sober for a week or a month, can make the process feel more manageable and rewarding.

There may well be some tough times during your break, but try to see these as small and welcomed challenges.

When to understand that you need to quit alcohol for good

Realising that your drinking habits have become problematic can be incredibly challenging. The nature of alcohol addiction often means that it’s hard to see the impact it has on your life until it feels overwhelming. You might sense that things are not quite right but feel unsure about what steps to take or how to stop.

Being honest with yourself is the first and most important step. To help you gain clarity, here are six questions to consider. If you find yourself answering ‘yes’ to these, it might indicate that your relationship with alcohol has become problematic:

• Do you often find yourself drinking more than you intended or for longer than you planned?
• Have you tried to cut down or stop drinking in the past but found that you couldn’t?
• Do you spend a lot of time thinking about drinking, planning when you can drink next or recovering from the effects of alcohol?
• Have you noticed that your drinking has caused problems at work, school or in your relationships with family and friends?
• Do you need to drink more now than you used to in order to feel the same effects?
• Have you experienced withdrawal symptoms, such as shaking, sweating or nausea, when you haven’t had a drink for a while?

If any of these questions resonate with you, it may be time to reach out for support and consider quitting alcohol for good. There are resources and professionals available to help you take those important first steps towards a healthier life.

How can I stop drinking if I have an alcohol addiction?

It’s always best to speak with a medical professional who can determine whether you could benefit from an extended break from alcohol or if the issue is serious enough to warrant medical attention. If you find out that you are addicted to alcohol, there are several avenues you can explore to treat the issue.

One effective way is through inpatient addiction rehab programmes. At Oasis Bradford, you’ll find a comprehensive approach to recovery, starting with the detox process. Detox is the first crucial step in the journey, allowing your body to rid itself of alcohol and other toxins. This process is necessary because it helps manage withdrawal symptoms in a controlled environment, reducing physical dependency and preparing you for the next stages of recovery.

Addiction affects not just the body but the mind as well. With this in mind, Oasis Bradford offers numerous therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). CBT helps by changing the negative thought patterns that contribute to addiction, while DBT focuses on teaching coping skills and emotional regulation, which are essential for managing triggers and preventing relapse.

In addition to these traditional therapies, Oasis Bradford also provides holistic therapies. These can include mindfulness practices, yoga and sound therapy, which focus on healing the whole person – mind, body and spirit. Holistic therapies are beneficial for alcohol addiction because they promote overall well-being, reduce stress and improve mental clarity, all of which support long-term recovery.

Aftercare at Oasis Bradford serves as a safety net, allowing you to transition back into normal daily life with support. In aftercare, you can practise your relapse prevention strategies and regularly check in with therapists to evaluate their effectiveness. This approach is crucial for alcohol addiction because it provides ongoing support and accountability, which are key to maintaining sobriety and navigating challenges post-rehab.

I have an alcohol addiction- why can’t I stop drinking on my own?

Quitting alcohol on your own when you have an addiction can be really tough and even dangerous. The withdrawal symptoms can range from anxiety and tremors to severe issues like seizures and delirium tremens, which can be life-threatening without proper medical care.

Besides, addiction affects both your body and mind, so just stopping isn’t usually enough. You need support and treatment that includes medical detox, therapy and a supportive environment to help you through it. Professional rehab programmes provide the care and support you need to safely and effectively overcome addiction and build a healthier future.

Reach out to Oasis Bradford for help today

If you or a loved one are suffering from an alcohol addiction, know that Oasis Bradford is here to lend a helping hand. With our alcohol addiction rehab programme, we have all the support and resources you need to quit alcohol for good. Contact us today to begin your journey to sobriety.