When we’re younger, drinking alcohol is often something we’re expected to do. We’re expected to go out and drink with friends, drink with meals, even drink at home to wind down. Alcohol is often called a ‘social lubricant’. It can make speaking to new people easier as it lowers inhibitions, and it can give you happy feelings in the process.
However, we shouldn’t have to tell you that too much of it can cause problems! People rarely stick to ‘just a couple’ and end up going overboard, which leaves them with a bad head the next day, a deflated bank balance, and probably even more money spent on junk food to ease the pain.
It might sound like a cliche, but it’s important to realize that you don’t need alcohol to have fun.
Why Do You Want To Stop Drinking?
If you’re going to stop drinking, then you need a strong reason for it. This will mean you can’t be pressured when you’re out with friends, and that you’re not tempted when you have had a tough day. Many people stop drinking for the following reasons:
- It’s too expensive
- Spending too much time with a hangover
- Making bad decisions
- Feel depressed and anxious after drinking
- Eating too much
You will have your own reasons for wanting to quit. Make sure you define them.
Get People On Board With You
You might want to see if you can get friends on board with you. As more people are realizing that alcohol isn’t a must, they might be up for the challenge of booze-free parties and nights out. You can drink fizzy pop, juice, and even mocktails to forget about the fact you’re not drinking.
Get Help If You Feel You Need It
If you feel you need help and advice, then you should go out and get it. There’s no shame in looking for help to improve your life. By looking at an alcohol detox timeline you’ll get an idea of what you might feel and when. Knowing that your feelings are valid and normal is important.
Build A Strong Support Network
Make sure you tell everybody in your life what you’re trying to achieve. If they are people you should be spending more time around, they will be supportive. Tell your parents, friends, and anybody else who will listen. Stick to this promise to yourself, and speak to the people you trust if things get tough.
Remember Your Worth
You can be funny without drinking. You can flirt without drinking. You can play games and party without drinking. You don’t need it to do any of the fun stuff. You’ll soon realize that your experiences are actually so much better for it, and you’ll likely never look back. At the very least, you’ll quash the urge to binge drink and you’ll be able to have a glass or two on special occasions without going OTT and ruining the next day.
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