Do you ever think that you might need to cut back on alcohol even if you aren’t an alcoholic?
Some people find that they drink more than they’d like to, but don’t feel they can be defined by the label: alcoholic. They find their relationship to alcohol to be tricky and challenging, but are worried about reaching out for help because it doesn’t seem like an all or nothing situation. Here are some signs to look for that might signal you should consider reevaluating your relationship to alcohol:
- You often wake up after a night of drinking feeling tired and unable to focus or feel motivated.
- You find yourself drinking more nights of the week than you don’t.
- You struggle to maintain a healthy weight.
- You often feel shame for your behavior after a night of drinking.
- Anytime there’s a celebration, there’s booze. And you aren’t quite sure how to celebrate without it.
- You find yourself less passionate for the things that used to drive you the most.
- Drinking is an area of your life that you feel you lack control over.
- You wake up after a night of drinking and think, “I need to cut back” or “I’m never drinking again,” but the habits continue.
If you find that you want to cut back on alcohol, the best thing to do is reach out to a specialist to discuss ways you might be able to moderate your drinking habits. Start to be aware of the way you feel before, during and after you drink. Once you implement a plan to cut back on your drinking, take note of the challenges you face. Working with a therapist, your doctor or a coach can help you address any underlying issues that may be driving your “need” to drink and ways you can alter your behavior.
