How to Stop Drinking Alcohol: Making a Plan That Works for You

Whenever possible, ask a friend or relative to attend a social event with you sober. “Many spouses or partners will voluntarily stop drinking,” Willenbring says. “I don’t think it’s fair to require it, but there’s nothing wrong with asking.” But that’s sort of missing the point, since they’re not meant to be fun for sober people to be with.

Imply you’re drinking more than you are, or that you’re drinking at all

They may badger you or try to convince you to change your mind. Sometimes they’re coming from a well-intentioned place and genuinely think you need to loosen up and give it how to not drink alcohol when everyone else is a chance. At other times you’ve made them feel insecure about their own habits and they want to get you to back down so they can reaffirm their choices. Mentioning that you’re “sober curious” is a great way to start a conversation without getting too personal. Whether or not you plan to leave your couch tomorrow, most people respect your choice to wake up feeling peachy.

How do I handle feeling left out when others are drinking?

It’s perfectly okay to say, “No.” If someone continues to pressure you to drink alcohol, it might be time to assess whether this person has your best interests at heart. People will be less likely to offer you a drink if you’re already holding a beverage in your hand. If you aren’t sure whether there will be non-alcoholic choices available at the event, bring your own soda, juice, tea, or coffee. Practicing saying no ahead of time can be a good way to boost your confidence if you’re in the early stages of sobriety. If you have a 12-Step sponsor, ask him or her for assistance. Going to a meeting before you attend the event can also be helpful, since it will provide you with a reminder of all you’ve accomplished so far and what you stand to lose if you relapse.

Ways to Say No to Alcohol When Someone Won’t Mind Their Damn Business

Practice assertiveness skills, such as politely declining offers of alcohol or suggesting alternative activities. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, you might leave the gathering or practice mindfulness techniques like deep breathing to keep yourself centered. Be confident in your decision, and remember that you have the right to make choices that align with your values and well-being. While some of your friends may be totally supportive of your decision, others may seem indifferent or respond in a negative way. Your sobriety might serve as a reminder to your “drinking buddies” that they’re consuming unhealthy amounts of alcohol, or stir up a bit of anxiety if they feel uncomfortable socializing sober.

• “It doesn’t affect you unless you drink, and if you drink, it will make you sick,” Willenbring says.
• It’s common to experience difficulty when making big changes, but good self-care practices can help you manage overwhelming feelings and take care of your mind and body.
• How to stay sober in social situations where other people are drinking.
• People attend social events to have fun, do business, or network.
• However, the DRUNK version of your friends can be a little fuzzy with the boundaries.

Avoid Triggers

To encourage stronger connections in sober settings, focus on creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable and included. Plan gatherings around activities or https://ecosoberhouse.com/ interests that involve everyone and encourage interaction and genuine connection. Participate in activities, conversations, and games to distract yourself from the focus on alcohol. By shifting your attention, you’ll find it easier to resist the temptation. Asking questions is a simple way to break the ice if you don’t know many of the other guests at the event.

Keep a support system

• To help you navigate these situations, I am going to share my top tricks so you can socialise sober with confidence, ease and excitement.
• If it’s your first time attending an event since deciding to forgo booze, show yourself some grace and set small goals that are attainable.
• Her TEDx talk,  “The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong,” is one of the most viewed talks of all time.
• Generally though, Lucero explains that it’s much easier for others to accept your no when it’s tied to something universally respected and nonnegotiable like, uh, not drinking and driving.
• Here’s a funny little clip from the BBC that I’m sure you’ll appreciate.
• This person should be someone who understands your substance abuse issues, is willing to stay close to you throughout the evening, and will leave with you if the situation gets out of control.
• By Amy Morin, LCSWAmy Morin, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and international bestselling author.

Depending on what you want, avoiding alcohol may be all you need. But what if you do find yourself in the occasional situation where it’s around? Or what if you have no problem with being around drinkers, or in drinking-related places, but just don’t want to do it yourself? “Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine.” He added that Palmer and Pond’s story is a reminder that cutting down on alcohol use “can be a moving target,” requires a pragmatic approach and that support from loved ones can be critical. One term used to describe the middle area is grey-area drinking, or simply grey drinking.

Being straightforward and assertive works in a lot of the time. Sometimes we figure it will create more problems than it’s worth. In that drug addiction case another popular strategy is to be mildly deceptive to make everyone leave you alone. Some people don’t want to be dishonest, and think they shouldn’t have to resort to hiding their non-drinking. Others are fine with it, and feel it’s just an easy, practical way to avoid getting bothered. If you’re totally not into drinking and that lifestyle, just hang out with a crowd that has other priorities.