You’ve decided you need help with your drinking: Here are the next steps

If you’re reading this article, then the chances are you’ve already completed one of the hardest steps in the addiction recovery cycle, admitting you have a problem.

So many of us around the country have problems with alcohol and recognising that your relationship with the substance is unhealthy is the perfect platform to build from and get the help you need.

So, you’ve admitted that you do have a problem, so what’s next? 

Seek Professional Help

The first, and best step to make is reaching out for professional help. Getting alcohol rehab counselling can be the single best thing you can do to commit to a life of sobriety.

Professional help can come in many forms, with the first contact potentially even being your GP. However, specialised alcohol support is what you will need, and counsellors and therapists can guide you through the whole process, from the detox stages to coping strategies and living in recovery.  

They’ll put you on a treatment programme that suits your needs, with different types of therapy and daily scheduling to ensure you’re in the best possible place for giving up alcohol for good. 

Consider Joining a Support Group

Support groups are such a key part of the process. Giving up alcohol is incredibly difficult to do alone and shared experiences, guidance and a bit of love can go a long way.

Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous are perfect for finding peer support, guiding you through the 12-step programme and created a more structured approach to giving up the booze.

There are other options too, particularly if you aren’t especially religious. Again, this is something that can be discussed with a healthcare professional. Either way, being part of a group, with others going through the same process, or have already been through it, is absolutely invaluable. 

Create a Personal Plan

Having a clear plan that is tailored to your needs is really important. You should set goals that are realistic and achievable, working towards bigger targets rather than creating something unattainable. This will only increase the chance of relapse.

Within your plan you should have strategies for dealing with triggers, while logging your experiences in a diary can be really good for tracking progress, as well as reflecting on difficult periods and how you dealt with them.

It’s all about finding a new, alcohol-free life and a healthier routine and creating a plan and structure early in the process will help you do that. 

Build a Supportive Environment

While you’ll want to build a support network, a supportive environment also plays a significant role. That means making the home a safe space, so remove alcohol and make it as calming an environment as possible.

Discuss your decision with friends and family and ensure they’re all on board with your goals and targets. They’ll support and perhaps help you in finding new, healthier hobbies and interests, while also providing you with respect and encouragement, which can be so, so crucial in staying motivated. 

Be Kind to Yourself

Recovery from alcohol dependence or problematic drinking is a journey, and it’s important to be patient and kind to yourself along the way. There may be setbacks, but they do not define your progress or your ability to succeed. If you have a slip-up, don’t be too hard on yourself. Instead, reflect on what led to the lapse, and use it as an opportunity to learn and strengthen your resolve.

Self-care is a vital part of the recovery process. Focus on improving your overall well-being by getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and finding healthy ways to relax and manage stress. Taking care of your physical and mental health will make it easier to stay committed to your goals and resist the temptation to drink.