Whatever the reason, it is important to know that there are many other options available that can provide the necessary support and guidance to achieve and maintain Sobriety. If none of these options sound good to you, you can build the recovery community you feel is lacking in the world. Start a group in your area or on a social networking site like Facebook, and watch it grow. The SMART Recovery program is not based on a spiritual foundation like AA; instead, it’s foundation is research-based. This means that scientific research and evidence are used to support the techniques and methods that are promoted through this model. Although these new activities are healthy and productive, they can be a stumbling block to lasting recovery if they become a transfer addiction to fill the void left by the original addiction.

Change your environment

I also think that, if possible, it is a great idea to make amends with the people and things that make you feel regret. The most common feedback I’ve received comes from people who want to be sober with others but do not want to partake in Alcoholics Anonymous. In social situations where people are drinking, you might feel more comfortable with a drink in your hand.

Drugs & Supplements

Regardless of the approach you choose, certain tips and strategies can make you much more likely to succeed at quitting alcohol long-term. Once you are past the getting sober without aa initial detox phase, rehabilitation programs (or rehab) are one way to go. Residential treatment can last days, and gives you a chance for a full reset.

Drunk–ish by Stefanie Wilder-Taylor

• Regardless of the difference in our needs, the most important thing is that we just don’t drink.
• This may mean that you don’t spend time with someone you used to use drugs with or go somewhere you used to drink.
• I’ll always remember the beauty Silver Ridge has brought into my life and also my family’s lives.
• After all, you can’t hang around your drug dealer or old drinking buddies and expect to remain sober for very long.
• My mind has a mental obsession and my body has an allergic reaction.
• This East Village sober bar had its grand opening in September 2022 and countless memories have been made (and fully remembered!) since.

They can help to identify how mental illness played into excessive consumption of alcohol and provide specific methods for overcoming those challenges. The most impactful and beneficial aspect of Alcoholics Anonymous or a drug program is the community. Lying to loved ones about what you’re doing and with whom, or feelings of shame about your problem can lead to feelings of isolation. The further you stray from who you used to be, the more you feel that you can’t relate to others (or that they can’t relate to you). Having peers who are going through or have dealt with the struggles of alcoholism provides much-needed emotional support. They can also be an invaluable source of practical advice for things like withdrawal and or even repairing relationships with estranged loved ones.

• SOS hosts both online and physical face-to-face meetings to help people overcoming any form of addiction, from behavioral addictions to drug and alcohol addictions.
• Turner notes the importance of bringing along a trusted support person when attending events that involve alcohol.
• We alcoholics have a choice, stay in that god awful hell and die or seek out a better way to live, ONE DAY AT A TIME.
• Whether you find support online, in person, or through other means, the most important thing is that you are taking steps to stay sober and live a healthy, fulfilling life.
• Recovery from alcohol or drug addiction is a personal journey, and no two people’s paths will look similar.
• It requires dedication, commitment, and a willingness to seek out alternative methods of support.

How to Quit Drinking Without Going to AA

SMART Recovery concepts help individuals to recognize that alcohol abuse can be destructive, and it creates problems emotionally, physically, socially, and behaviorally. Getting sober is when someone stops using an intoxicating substance. It can include a medically supervised detox, various forms of treatment including therapy and 12-step programs, and calling upon family, friends, and professionals for additional support.

• If you don’t think AA is the right choice for you, don’t worry.
• MAT is often used in conjunction with other treatment methods, such as counseling and therapy.
• If you find that you’re struggling to avoid alcohol, or you’re feeling lonely and isolated, consider seeking professional help.
• Because they are able to prescribe medication, psychiatrists can be particularly helpful if you believe you have underlying anxiety or depression you are managing with alcohol.
• Women are encouraged to go over the 13 acceptance statements each morning and then work through them throughout the day, reflecting on them each night.

Find Balance in Your Life

Start by talking to a doctor to make sure it is safe for you to go through withdrawal without medical care, and create a list of people to call just in case. If you think you can stick with it, creating a tapering schedule and gradually reducing how much you drink is usually the best approach. If you plan to quit cold turkey (all at once), make sure you are well-stocked with everything you’ll need for the week—withdrawal can make you feel very ill. HAMS is a peer-led group that provides support and information to those who want to change their drinking habits.

Episode 22: Addiction from a Family Members Perspective (Part

Learn From Your Experiences