Alcohol is one of the most addictive substances worldwide. Millions of people in the world suffer from alcohol abuse, and it can lead to serious problems and even death.
If you know someone who is suffering from this addiction and want him to quit it soon, then here are five tips on how to quit drinking.
Ask for Support
It’s not easy to stop doing something you are so used to, and when it comes to the habit of drinking it can be even harder. You don’t necessarily have to go to a support class, you could simply ask family or friends for help. Alternatively, there are specialised groups for people wanting help with putting the bottle down.
It won’t be easy; it’s not going to be a one-day process for you to come clean. It is hard work; it will take time, and sometimes it will feel like you can’t cope. But that’s what the support is for. So, if you need help, don’t be afraid, remember there are others in your position and that there is always someone willing to help.
Keep a Drinking Diary
It may sound crazy at first, but writing down how much you drink and when you drink can really open your eyes. Putting it in writing allows you to look back and reflect on how much alcohol you consume. This can then be measured against the advised intake depending on your age, sex, weight, etc.
From here, you can set a goal. Use your previous results as a way to try and lower the intake. For the next couple of weeks/months, keep track of what you drink. Each time you write it down, try and set a new goal. Have a go at reducing the amount you are drinking, try cutting it out for a whole day.
Keep the Cupboard Alcohol Free
If you have alcohol available in your house, you are more likely to drink it. If you have alcohol stored in the cupboard or other areas, try and get rid of it. Once your cupboards are booze-free, you should start to notice the reduction in alcohol consumption.
Start a Hobby
It is surprising how many people drink because they have nothing else to do. Starting a hobby will make your mind busy. The aim is to reduce the amount you think about drinking. So, start a hobby! Go running, join a sports club, sign up for a gym or any other activity of your preference.
Be Persistent
It might take multiple tries. Barely anyone manages to stay clean after the first attempt at quitting. You might have the occasional setback; you might have a day where you slip up. This shouldn’t mean that you have failed. Get back on track; you need to reach that goal and persistence is the key. There will always be people you can talk to if you feel like you are slipping out of control.
Giving up alcohol is hard for many. Every year, roughly 2.5 million people will die from harmful use of alcohol. It’s not only the person who drinks that can die, but they can also kill others while under the influence of alcohol. So, if you are struggling with alcohol addiction, do seek help and support.