How to Quit Drinking without Alcoholics Anonymous: Self-Help

Read on to learn how to stop drinking without AA—including the many alternatives to Alcoholics Anonymous—and how to decide which approach can help you quit drinking. Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) was developed in the 1970s. It focuses on the interplay of an individual’s physical, linguistic, and cognitive behavior, and aims to help people to understand the way their brain works and so change negative thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. Benefits include an increased understanding of self and others and better communication, and addiction therapy is just one of many suggested uses. Proponents of NLP argue that the best way to treat an addiction is to change the way the sufferer thinks—and NLP claims to do just that.

Sobriety in A.A.: Since getting sober, I have hope

Exercising on a regular basis is a good alternative for AA. Physical training is known to stimulate essential elements such as endorphins. Once you are happy and satisfied, it becomes easier to eliminate alcohol cravings. I was a helping professional and it was hard enough to admit I had a problem with substances and wasn’t coping well with life. However, my substance use and mental health came to a head through suicidal ideation so I needed to get help. If you’re involved in a 12-step program, you likely already know the importance of milestones.

Sobriety in AA: We made changes to stop drinking

Take our short alcohol quiz to learn where you fall on the drinking spectrum and if you might benefit from quitting or cutting back on alcohol. Either way, if you find yourself avoiding AA because you don’t want to quit drinking completely, this is a good solution to look into—and there are many ways to access it. Once you are past the initial detox phase, rehabilitation programs (or rehab) are one way to go.

Avoid Old Routines and Habits

You can expect certain alcohol withdrawal symptoms such as sleep disruption to occur, though some people can experience seizures and other severe symptoms. Alcohol consumption and abuse may cause you to look tired and puffy. Or it could be that you’ve developed a physical health problem that you know is probably due to drinking and you want to make positive changes before things get worse. If you’re not experiencing negative health effects right now, it might be a good idea to learn about what could happen if you do keep drinking. Deciding to quit isn’t easy, but it’s a brave and commendable first step toward becoming sober.

Neuro-Linguistic Programming

I love a strongly-worded self-belief post as much as anyone else. Studies show that certain brain chemicals play a role in addiction. It also promotes confidence and structure, which are important to recovery. To find a sober coach, search Google for local options getting sober without aa or explore coaching databases like Bark and Noomii. When searching for a therapist, it’s a good idea to look for one who specializes in AUD or addiction. It’s important to note that moderation does not work for everyone, but it is a valid approach for some.

There are also online treatment programs to help you quit drinking without AA. My company, Workit Health, has offers online, science-backed courses to help you beat alcohol use disorder from your computer or phone. Whether or not you do 12-step along with it is up to you. Finally, treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD) isn’t limited to the 12 steps.

Avoid Old Habits and Toxic Relationships

SMART Recovery programs avoid labels, such as “alcoholic,” and shy away from the disease model of addiction. They focus on methods that use both Motivational Enhancement Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy components to engender change of self-destructive behaviors. Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) is indicated for the treatment of opioid dependence in adults. Suboxone should not be taken by individuals who have been shown to be hypersensitive to buprenorphine or naloxone as serious adverse reactions, including anaphylactic shock, have been reported. Taking Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) with other opioid medicines, benzodiazepines, alcohol, or other central nervous system depressants can cause breathing problems that can lead to coma and death.

• If you’re involved in a 12-step program, you likely already know the importance of milestones.
• All too often, alcohol takes up a major part of our leisure time, and can replace other healthy ways to unwind or socialize.
• Some elements of the program, including the belief in a higher power, aren’t the right fit for everyone.
• While in his office one day, he informed me that my bi-weekly toxicology report was negative.
• Feel free to set up a free 60 minute Alternative Recovery Plan Strategy Call with me so that you can get clear on your vision, what’s stopping you from moving forward now and your specific next steps.
• Let’s explore some of the available alternatives to AA and 12-step programs.
• However, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) doesn’t mesh with everyone’s perspective.

I am not powerless over my addiction. And the concept of GOD really cannot help me.

Instead of shunning them, I was grateful for their kindness and went to Sunday worship for breakfast, warmth, and companionship. We met weekly for breakfast for several years until I lost contact. In addition to friends and family, consider joining support groups outside of AA. Surrounding yourself with a solid and understanding support system is crucial for successful sobriety. They will address your specific needs and equip you with the skills to cope with cravings, triggers, and emotional struggles. I fought off the temptation to indulge in dope for a couple of years.

Rehab Riviera: Addiction fraud charges filed against another OC operator

Guilt is having negative feelings about your past behavior. People in recovery can experience a lot of shame simply for having become addicted in the first place. Consider reaching out to a vocational rehabilitation counselor or career coach to help you update your resume, practice job interview skills, and locate jobs that match your skills and experience. A structured routine will help you achieve other goals in your life, whether they are short-term (like being on time for work) or long-term (like going back to school and changing careers).