HOW TO STOP DRINKING (OR AT LEAST CUT DOWN)

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HOW TO STOP DRINKING (OR AT LEAST CUT DOWN)


How to stop drinking (or at least cut down)

There are many reasons why you might want to check your drinking habits, and you don’t have to drink every day for it to be a problem. Perhaps someone has told you about their concerns or you may find it difficult to stop drinking once you start, for example. You may have noticed that alcohol is affecting your health, mood, work, or relationships.
 
Whatever your reason, changing your drinking habits can have a big impact on everything from your relationships to your sleep quality. It may be hard to take that first step, but making changes can help you be happier and healthier.

Things to consider before you start

Think about the goals you want to achieve. Giving up alcohol completely may seem like a big step, but it may be the change in direction you need. Reducing alcohol consumption is also a good goal, and it can be the first step to quitting completely. If you are ready to stop drinking, don’t hesitate to seek help. It’s easier to make positive changes when you have the help and support of others. 

You can:

  •  Talk to your doctor about your concerns and your plan to manage your alcohol use. They will be able to give you useful advice and information. 
  • Tell your family and friends. If they know you are trying to change your drinking habits, they can encourage and support you. 
  • Find the nearest bar service. You can find a Change Too Live bar service near you and check out treatment options further down the page. 
  • Join a peer support group like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).

 If you drink alcohol every day and experience bad withdrawal symptoms when you don’t drink, don’t stop drinking suddenly. This can cause severe withdrawal symptoms. It’s important to consult with your local health care provider to plan a safe, healthy detox.

How can I reduce my alcohol consumption?

Know your why

 There are reasons why you decide to stop or reduce your drinking. Write it down and keep it visible at all times. Whether it’s a better , better health, or weight loss, keeping a “why” in mind can help boost your motivation.

Read also:THE FASTEST WAY TO CHILL CHAMPAGNE AND OTHER SPARKLING WINES

Have a plan  

Don’t just say you’re going to quit or cut back on your work. Write down the steps you will follow to move forward. What day do you start? Who will you tell about your decision? What will you do when you go back? Have instructions on how to proceed.

Note the positive

With less alcohol in your life, you will likely have better skin, better sleep, and you may notice an improvement in your overall mood. Some people also lose weight by cutting down on alcohol. Celebrate the victories along the way, no matter how small. 

Understanding detox
 
If you are a heavy drinker, your body can do damage when you quit. It’s normal to feel anxious, restless, shaky, or dizzy and sweaty. These symptoms usually go away within 5 to 7 days. Let your doctor know and call if you have severe symptoms such as blurred vision, confusion, or high blood pressure. 

Follow the instructions

To reduce the number of drinks you drink each week, start with a daily limit. The federal government’s Dietary Guidelines recommend that you don’t drink alcohol at all, but recommend that if you do, limit yourself to two drinks a day for men and one for women. Talk to your doctor about how this goal might work for you.

 Create a script

Alcoholism is a social phenomenon. You will probably find yourself in a situation where you are offered alcohol. Know how to say “No thanks” ahead of time. Also do what you can say as a follow-up comment when someone asks you.

Read also:9 WAYS TO OPEN A BOTTLE WHEN YOU DON’T HAVE A BOTTLE OPENER

Find out what motivates you
 
There are places, people and activities associated with drinking. Being around them can make it difficult to stick to your plans. If you can, avoid them. If that’s not possible, admit that you want to drink and don’t judge yourself for it. Call or text a friend and make a goal to remind you why to stop drinking. 

Share your goals

Talk to trusted family and friends about your plans to stop or reduce your alcohol consumption. When people around you know, it can help them know not to give you alcohol. It may even help if you spend some time with other non-drinkers so you can support each other.

Find stand ins

Drinking alcohol is often a socially focused activity. If you find it difficult to do the same thing as before, try to do a new hobby to occupy your time. Join a gym, learn a new skill, or find a like-minded social group that might benefit.

Keep going

Changing habits takes time and work. If you don’t reach your goal, don’t give up. Start the next day. Learn from your offense and continue.

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