Another year will soon be coming to a close and, after all the festive imbibing, you have made the decision to quit alcohol. While this is a noble goal, finding the most effective strategy to stop for good can be intimidating.
It’s true that each person’s path will differ; yet, there are some methods that are universally used in one’s quest to give up the booze. Here are some tips to help you on your journey towards sobriety.
1. Begin with a plan
Before you embark on the journey of quitting, make sure you know what your options are. It’s important to have a game plan in place, whether it’s who you will call for support, or what you will do when you have the urge to drink.
Identifying your triggers and drinking patterns is also a good first step in saying goodbye to alcohol.
There may be situations you can avoid that promote drinking, such as meals out with friends or family gatherings. The more you understand your mind and body, and the more prepared you are, the stronger you will be when faced with challenges.
2. Build a strong support network
Quitting alcohol is far easier when you’re surrounded by a strong support network of family and friends.
If you’ve had problems with alcohol for many years, your loved ones will know how hard it will be for you to give it up. So, knowing they are by your side can be a big help.
If you feel like a burden on your loved ones, you may prefer to join a support group that will allow you to safely and confidentially let off steam, and find solidarity in those who are in the same boat as you are.
3. Speak to your doctor first
Attempting to quit cold-turkey? It’s highly advised you speak to your doctor in advance. In some instances, alcohol withdrawal can be treacherous – even potentially fatal.
While this shouldn’t put you off, it’s best to seek guidance and input from a healthcare practitioner to ensure you’re kept safe throughout.
If you’re worried about severe withdrawal symptoms, you may find solace in medical counselling that can give you support and guidance along the way.
4. Practise self-care strategies
Prioritising your mental and physical wellbeing is a must when giving up alcohol. Some people turn to exercise as a way to take their mind off things, while others meditate to relax and destress.
Pick a self-care strategy that works well for you and try to find rituals that keep you balanced. A persistent habit like drinking alcohol can be difficult to shift, so you must prepare for good and bad days.
Remember to be kind to yourself along the way and retain a positive mindset.
5. Set realistic goals
To increase your chances of success, lay out realistic, long-term goals that give you something to focus on.
Listing down the reasons behind quitting can keep you motivated. Whether you want to be a better parent for your child, or simply wish to feel healthier, putting down these goals on paper and carrying them with you will serve as a constant and helpful reminder.
6. Keep a journal
In addition to writing down the reasons behind your quitting, once you have started on the journey, you should jot down your thoughts and feelings along the way.
When you have a bad day, putting pen to paper and being honest with yourself can change your mindset for the better. Later down the line, looking back on your experiences can help put things into perspective and keep you on the right path.
7. Stay committed
Quitting alcohol is a long journey. While some people find success straight away, others will require more time to get into the right headspace.
Remember, setbacks are common so, should you relapse, try not to beat yourself up about it. Each person is different, so if one method doesn’t work for you, try another until you find one that helps.
Read more articles by Dennis Relojo-Howell here.
Dennis Relojo-Howell is the managing director of Psychreg and host of ‘The DRH Show’. Connect with him on X at @dennisr_howell.
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