I can recall times where I wasn’t quite sure what was going on with my drinking but I knew it wasn’t helping anything. Today happens to be my 5 year anniversary (whoop!) and this time of year always brings self-reflection as to what in the world happened?!
The tricky part about drinking and even addiction is that it can look totally different depending on the person. A common misconception is that addiction is someone who is completely out of control and hitting rock bottom (think: the homeless person with a brown bag). Another common misconception is that there’s a certain amount of alcohol that implies having a problem. This is simply not true.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Honestly, if drinking is causing you problems then it’s a problem. That’s it. Only you can gauge that and make changes but here are a few signs.
Alternatives to Alcohol
Everyone’s relationship with alcohol is different. Some hate it, some love it, some can take it or leave it, and some can’t live without it.
Wherever you find yourself on the continuum, having effective coping skills are a necessity for healthy living! We live in a culture where alcohol is an encouraged coping skill but what happens when you don’t want to or don’t need to drink? How do you deal with life then?
Here are my top 5 alternatives to drinking alcohol.
1. Call someone you trust and share how you’re feeling.
2. Get active and release natural endorphins. Even a brief walk can help!
3. Take up a hobby. Mine happens to be doing my own nails! It takes up time and taps into my creative side.
4. Do something kind for yourself or someone else.
5. Pray, meditate, journal, and just be still. This, too, shall pass.
There are many more ways to cope and these aren't “quick fixes” but they do work with time and practice. If you find yourself reaching for alcohol to self-sooth, practice letting the temptation pass. You just might find it works for you!
Be Well,
Kristen