There may come a time in your life, perhaps it’s now, where you need to really assess your relationship with alcohol and whether it’s something that’s moderate or you need to give the stuff up.
You see it with many musicians, giving it up in their 30s after years of hitting the bottle hard. But it’s not exclusive to rock and roll, and alcohol problems can be found in all kinds of people, including you.
In fact, it’s estimated that there are well over half a million alcoholics in the UK, so you’re not alone if you are starting to think your relationship needs addressing.
In an ideal world, getting professional help is the best course of action, going through the alcohol detoxification process supervised, and then getting various counselling and therapy to set you up for recovery. However, some choose to go it alone too.
That isn’t easy, but it’s by no means impossible either, so here’s what you need to know if you’re wanting to give up alcohol alone…
Understanding Withdrawal Symptoms
The detox process is the hardest thing to do alone and it’s important to be well informed on what it entails. Understanding withdrawal symptoms is key to this.
If you’ve been drinking heavily or regularly, stopping can trigger a range of symptoms, some mild, some severe. This can include anxiety, irritability, tremors, sweating, headaches and nausea, while more severe symptoms can be elevated blood pressure, seizures or delerium tremens, which can in fact be life threatening. So medical care is advised when detoxing.
Mental and Emotional Challenges
Giving up the booze is not just a physical process, it carries its mental challenges too. These are actually often more difficult to manage than the physical elements. We use alcohol to cope with anxieties, stress, boredom and many other things, and without that the underlying problems we use it for become more pronounced.
Tackling those alone takes a lot of strength and you’ll need to develop healthier coping strategies to manage the emotional triggers you once turned to booze with. The likes of mindfulness exercises, journaling, exercise or just talking to friends are recommended by professionals and should be considered.
The Importance of Structure and Routine
Establishing a daily structure and routine can be really valuable in effectively entering recovery alone. Set mealtimes, bed times and fill the day with activities to fill the gaps where you’d be drinking or going to the pub.
This can reduce boredom, one of the major players in relapse, while also providing you with endorphins and positivity to help you remain sober.
Plan ahead for the more challenging situations you might face, whether that be parties, stressful situations or social pressures and have actions you’ll take if cravings or triggers arise. This will keep you focused and on track in your journey.
Seeking Support Without Formal Programmes
Even if you choose not to enter formal treatment, support is essential. Consider reaching out to friends or family members who understand your decision and can provide encouragement. Online forums and peer support communities, such as SMART Recovery or moderated recovery groups, offer advice, shared experiences, and accountability. Engaging with others, even virtually, can help you feel less isolated and provide practical strategies for coping with cravings or setbacks.
Knowing When to Seek Professional Help
Finally, while many people successfully quit alcohol independently, it is no easy task and many people find themselves needing support. Don’t try to be too strong. It’s a mammoth task and ultimately the goal is to get sober, not necessarily to make sure you’ve done it alone.
Seek medical advice when you’ve been drinking heavily, as withdrawal can be life threatening, while if you are unsure about certain steps, get advice from professionals. There is really no shame and it will significantly increase your chances of a successful recovery. Which is what you, and everyone around you, wants.
