So, you’re looking to kick your alcohol cravings to the curb? First off, kudos to you for even thinking about it. This is a very big step. Let’s take a look at how to stop craving alcohol with a few tips and understanding the nature of your cravings in the first place.
Let’s start with a bit of introspection. Alcohol cravings are more than just a hankering. It may seem innocent, but the reality is there is more to the desire for alcohol than just, “that sounds good right now.”
Psychological Alcohol Cravings
When we crave alcohol, it’s like a complicated confluence between what’s happening in our mind and body. On the psychological side, habits are key. If you’re used to having a drink regularly, your brain starts to link drinking with certain times or activities. It’s kind of like your brain’s way of saying, “Hey, isn’t it time for a drink?”
Then there’s the stress factor – a lot of us reach for a drink to find solace from stress, anxiety, or feeling down. The relief is certainly short-lived, but it can make you crave a drink as a quick escape as soon as the stress creeps in.
Social Alcohol Cravings
Social scenes play a big part too. If you’re often around people who drink, or in situations where drinking is just what you do, that can be a trigger. It’s all about the associations your brain makes – linking fun, relaxation, or even just ‘fitting in’ with having a drink.
Physical Alcohol Cravings
On the physical side, your body can become dependent on alcohol. If you drink a lot, your body adjusts, and pretty soon, it starts needing alcohol to feel normal. This is all about changes in your brain chemistry and how your brain works when it gets used to alcohol.
So, when you’re not drinking, your body might start craving it, just to dodge the nasty feelings of going without. This is your body actually getting ready to stave off alcohol withdrawals. But that’s not what we think it is; we assume we just want a “cold one.” It’s a cycle of needing a drink, having one, and then needing more.
But why do we invite them in the first place? Often, we turn to alcohol to fill voids, soothe wounds, or because we think it makes our stories more interesting. It’s like putting a band-aid on a bullet hole – a temporary fix that doesn’t address the underlying issues.
Time to Stop Drinking Alcohol
Alcohol promises a good time but often leaves you with a hangover and a side of regret.
Why does alcohol have such a grip? Society glorifies it, we’re biologically wired to seek pleasure, and let’s face it, it’s everywhere – like glitter at a craft store.
You’re not alone. Many have walked this path and found light on the other side. You’re part of a community, a fellowship of the flask-less.
Tips on How to Stop Craving Alcohol
No matter where the cravings come from, there are ways to combat them if you are looking to cut back or quit alcohol completely. Maybe you are taking a month of for Dry January or just taking a healthy look at your relationship with alcohol; whatever it is, try these tips to help you get a handle on the little monster (craving) when it rears its head
- Find Your Tribe: Surround yourself with supportive folks who get it.
- Distract Yourself: When cravings hit, do something. Knit, jog, paint, or maybe try underwater basket weaving.
- Mindful Reflection: Journaling helps. Pour out your thoughts and keep track of when, why, and how intentional you are about taking a drink and how you feel.
- Celebrate Small Victories: Every craving you resist deserves a mental high five.
- Avoid Triggers: Stay away from situations or places where you usually drink. For example, instead of going to the bar, plan a different activity like going to the gym or having a quiet night in.
- Distract Yourself: When you feel like drinking, do something else to keep your mind busy. This could be watching a TV show, cleaning, or any hobby that grabs your attention.
- Question the Urge: When you want to drink, think about why you feel that way. It’s a chance to understand your cravings and find other ways to deal with them.
- Learn to Say No: Get comfortable with turning down alcohol. Look people in the eye, speak confidently, and suggest a non-alcoholic drink instead.
- Use Meditation and Mindfulness: Practice meditation and mindfulness to help calm your mind and reduce the urge to drink. It’s about finding peace and focus without relying on alcohol.
- Seek Professional Help if Needed: There’s no shame in it. Really, there isn’t.
Remember, the road to cutting back or taking a break or even full sobriety is like learning to ride a bike. There will be wobbles, maybe a fall, but eventually, you’ll find your balance.
What If It Doesn’t Work?
So, you’ve tried the tips, but the craving’s got its hooks in deep?
First off, let’s chat about the signs of alcohol addiction. If you find yourself planning your day around drinking, or if a glass of wine feels more like a necessity than a choice, it might be time to raise a flag. Other signs include:
- The Blues: Waking up with a hangover more often than not.
- The Disappearing Act: Hiding your drinking habits.
- The Guilt Trip: Feeling guilty or ashamed about drinking.
- Tolerance: Needing more to feel the same buzz.
- Withdrawals: Experiencing shakes, sweats, or anxiety when not drinking.
Alcohol Detox
If you are finding it difficult or even impossible to stop craving alcohol then the next step might be an alcohol detox with a professional detox center. Imagine detox as a lighthouse guiding you away from rocky shores. It’s the process of letting your body rid itself of alcohol.
Here’s what it might do for you:
- Clear the Fog: Detox can help clear your mind, allowing you to think without the haze of alcohol.
- Reset the Button: It’s like hitting the reset button on your body, giving it a chance to heal and start fresh.
- Kickstart Recovery: Detox is the first step on the road to recovery. You can’t start the journey without taking that first step.
However, remember this: detox should often be done under medical supervision. Going cold turkey at home is risky and not recommended.
If you can’t stop the craving, it’s okay to ask for help. It’s like being lost in a forest and finding a guide to lead you out. Professional help, whether it’s therapy, support groups, or medical intervention, can be that guide. There’s no shame in seeking assistance; it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
Stop Craving Alcohol at Saddleback Recovery
Ready to take the next step in your journey to sobriety? Contact Saddleback Recovery, your trusted alcohol and drug detox center in Orange County, CA. Our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way. Call us now at (877) 843-5724 and start your path to a healthier, happier life.
