Giving Up Alcohol
Giving up alcohol is not as difficult as you think it would be. Of course we are not talking about a drink now and then to celebrate family occasions or friends’ birthdays. If you have a drinking problem and wish to give it up, these steps mentioned below may be able to help you out.
The first step towards giving up alcohol is acknowledging that you have a problem in the first place. Face the truth, ask close friends and family members, and contact your nearest Alcoholics Anonymous support group for information in this topic.
Next, talk to your doctor. Just like alcohol can lead to serious health issues like heart ailments, liver diseases, stroke and obesity, giving up alcohol suddenly too may cause a number of harmful side effects in your body. Your doctor will first do a thorough check up of your overall health condition and then suggest ways to handle the side effects of giving up alcohol. It is very important that you get out of drinking gradually and feel better once you have accomplished it, not worse.
The very first thing you need to do after consulting your doctor is to get rid of every drop of alcohol you have stashed in your home. That means all those bottles in the refrigerator, cellar and those hidden away in private nooks and corners. If you have sherry and wine in your kitchen that you use for cooking, throw those bottles away too. Having to go out and get a drink will always make you think twice than when a bottle is within arm’s reach, hence you must absolutely follow the above piece of advice.
Next, avoid going to those places where you would usually drink, like the bar across the street from work or the one just round the corner from your place. It may be difficult initially but just stick to it and you will be able to keep away easily after a few weeks.
Giving up alcohol does not mean that you cannot drink at all; just stick to non alcoholic beverages. Stock up your refrigerator with your favorite sodas and juices and every time you feel like having a drink, open up a can. If your doctor finds your condition to be more serious and needs specialized attention, he may advise you to check into a rehabilitation clinic. The complete change of scene will do you good and giving up alcohol should not be difficult to achieve.