Today I come with a serious topic, but I promise to liven it up with a touch of humor. Let’s talk about how to overcome alcoholism This is no bed of roses, but we’re not asking you to become Rocky Balboa either.
You just need to be willing to take small steps and have the determination of a snail in a marathon. So, sit back, have your tea (or water, or coffee, but no shots, please) and let’s break down 10 practical tips for this journey.
It may seem like the oldest trick in the book, but the first step to overcoming any problem is admitting you have it. And no, we’re not talking about admitting that you have a bad score on the last mobile game you tried. It’s about recognizing that you have a problem with alcohol.
2. Seek professional help
Alcohol problems do not solve themselves They’re like that wine stain on the carpet that you thought would magically disappear. A psychologist or addiction counselor can be the perfect stain remover in this case.
3. Change your habits
Changing your habits can be as difficult as changing your favorite ice cream flavor But remember, alcoholism feeds on routines and customs. Changing them can be a powerful strategy to combat it.
4. Have a plan
A plan is like a map on a treasure hunt, it shows you the path to follow and helps you avoid obstacles. In the case of alcoholism, your plan might include short- and long-term goals, strategies for dealing with cravings, and an action plan in case of relapse.
No man is an island, and this is also true when it comes to overcoming alcoholism Having friends and family by your side is like having a personalized cheer choir.
6. Take care of your physical health
In addition to what’s going on in your head, your body also matters in this battle. Imagine that your body is like that old car that you are very fond of. You need to feed him correctly, give him enough water and rest, and make sure he gets his dose of exercise to stay in shape.
7. Explore new activities
Exploring new activities is like opening a gift at Christmas: exciting and sometimes surprising. You might discover that you love painting, gardening, or meditation. These new activities will not only keep you busy, but they will also help you manage stress and find new ways to enjoy life without alcohol.
8. Be patient
Remember that sometimes worthwhile things take time. Overcoming alcoholism is not like cooking a microwave, it is more like braising a stew. You will need patience and persistence.
9. Avoid temptations
Alcoholism is like that ex you still haven’t gotten over: the more you see it, the harder it is to resist. So, at first, it might help to avoid situations where you might be tempted to drink.
In the same way that a person allergic to pollen would probably not spend their free time in a field of daisies, a person in the process of overcoming alcoholism needs to avoid those situations and people that encourage alcohol consumption. Your usual routine may include meeting friends in bars, or You have a coworker who is always encouraging you to have “just a beer” after work For many, alcohol has been so intrinsically linked to their social lives that disentangling the two can seem like a daunting task. But think of this as an opportunity to discover new ways to socialize and have fun.
It is important to note that this change does not necessarily mean that you should cut off all relationships that involve the presence of alcohol. After all, you will encounter alcohol in many situations in life, and part of the recovery process is learning to handle these situations without giving in to temptation. However, if you have relationships that are primarily based on alcohol consumption, or people in your life who do not respect your decision to stop drinking, it may be time to reconsider those relationships.
Additionally, in many social situations, you can find alternatives to alcohol. Instead of going to bars, you can propose outdoor activities, cafes, or simply organize a game night at home.
Remember, The main goal is your well-being, and if that means getting away from certain people or situations, then it’s worth it It’s time to prioritize what’s truly important in your life. After all, you can’t walk the road to recovery with a backpack full of rocks.
10. Celebrate your achievements
No matter how small your achievement is, it is always worth celebrating. Because, let’s face it, we all like to feel like rock stars from time to time, right?
Frequent questions
These are some of the doubts that may arise when faced with the problem of alcoholism:
How do I know if I have a problem with alcohol?
If you’re asking yourself this question, you may already be on the right track Often, the first step in identifying if you have a problem with alcohol is to do an honest self-examination.
Do you find yourself drinking more than you initially planned? Do you feel anxious or uncomfortable if you can’t drink? Have you tried to reduce your alcohol consumption without success? Is your alcohol consumption affecting your work, your personal relationships or your health? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may want to consider seeking professional help.
Remember, relapse is part of the process, not a failure It’s like slipping on a banana peel in the middle of a marathon: it hurts, yes, but that doesn’t mean you have to abandon the race. Instead of beating yourself up, try to identify what caused the relapse and how you can avoid it in the future. And remember, you can always seek support from mental health professionals and support groups.
Is it possible to overcome alcoholism on my own?
Overcoming alcoholism can be challenging, and although some people have managed to do it on their own, having a support team can be extremely helpful. Mental health professionals, support groups, and your loved ones can provide you with the tools, guidance and encouragement you need to survive this journey Remember, there is nothing wrong with asking for help.
How can I help a loved one struggling with alcoholism?
It’s painful to see someone you care about struggling with alcoholism. First, be sure to educate yourself about alcoholism and its treatment. Then, try to broach the topic with your loved one in a non-confrontational way , expressing your concerns and offering your support. Remember, you can’t force someone to change, they have to want to do it themselves.
Is there any medication that can help me overcome alcoholism?
Yes, there are medications such as naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram that can help some people manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms. However, these medications should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes therapy and psychological support.
You should always talk to a healthcare professional before starting any new medication (Talk to a psychologist, and if he or she deems it appropriate, to a psychiatrist to support pharmacological treatment).
How to overcome problems with alcohol
It is always best to ask a professional to accompany you (giving up alcohol is not easy, otherwise you would have already achieved it).
I am Luis Miguel Real, a psychologist specializing in addictions, and I have helped thousands of people overcome their addiction problems. Write to me and we will start working on your case as soon as possible.
