If you’ve discovered that you have a drinking problem, you may not even know what to do next. Realizing that your relationship with alcohol is unhealthy is a big first step. But now is the time to start changing your lifestyle to get sober. You’ll want to let close friends or family know so that they can support you with your goal. And finally, you’ll probably want to enlist the help of a professional. You’ve done the biggest first step, admitting you have a problem. Now you just need to make a plan to help you cut back or quit drinking altogether.
I’ve Realized I Have a Drinking Problem, Now What? Steps to Take to Get Help
Admitting the Problem
The first step towards fixing any problem is to admit that there is true, a problem. And a drinking problem is no different. Often it takes years and plenty of negative consequences from drinking before an alcoholic can admit to themselves that there’s an addiction issue. It’s great that you are realizing that you need to find a healthier relationship with alcohol. You may be wanting to cut back or quit drinking altogether.
Deciding to Change
Fixing a drinking problem often relies on commitment. And that commitment starts the moment you realize you want to change your drinking habits. Set your sights on a goal of how you’d like your relationship with alcohol to look. Maybe you would like to get to a place where you have a drink only one or two nights a week. Or perhaps you want to cut out alcohol altogether. Whatever your ultimate goal is, commit to it now and keep it at the forefront of your mind. Remembering why you’ve decided to make a change is the best way to help you get through a time when you’re tempted to drink again.
Get Support
The next step you’ll probably take to help fix a drinking problem is to get support from a trusted friend or family member. It often can be embarrassing for people to admit when they have a drinking problem. However, you should feel proud of yourself for realizing you need to make a change and for taking steps towards making that change. Your friends and family will want to support you however they can. They’ll be a source to lean on when you are struggling as well.
Get Help
Finally, fixing a drinking problem is often much easier when you enlist the help of a professional. Speaking to a therapist or doctor can be a good starting point. You might also choose to try out a group meeting or Twelve Step Program. Alcoholics Anonymous is one of the most famous examples of this, but there are other support groups available. Getting help from an outside source gives you an outlet to rely on when you’re struggling, and also somebody to celebrate with when you achieve goals.
Deciding to get help for a drinking problem will be so good for your health in the long run. Alcoholism can negatively affect your body, your mind, your mood, and your relationships. Once you’ve realized that you have a problem with alcohol, you can begin taking steps to fix it. Start by committing to your goals of becoming sober. Rely on trusted friends or family to give you support at this time. And finally, seek help from trusted resources like therapists or group therapies. Hopefully, you’ll be able to find the motivation you need to stick to your goals of leading a more sober life.
