Limiting Alcohol Temptations
Every year across the US, millions of people celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Perhaps you participated in the celebration this past weekend as well. However, did you know that, according to Alcohol.org, St. Patrick’s Day is the third biggest day of drinking in the US, only behind Mardi Gras and New Year’s Eve with the average drinker consuming 4.2 drinks on this green holiday?
If you think that you are drinking too much outside of drinking-centric holidays such as these, here are some ways to help you cut back your alcohol consumption:
Drink Slowly: When you drink, sip your drink slowly. Take a break of 1 hour between drinks. Drink soda, water or juice after a drink with alcohol. Do not drink on an empty stomach! Eat food when you are drinking.
Take a Break from Alcohol: Pick a day or two each week when you will not drink at all. Then, try to stop drinking for 1 week. Think about how you feel physically and emotionally on these days. When you succeed and begin to feel better, you may find it easier to cut down for good.
Learn How to Say No: You do not have to drink when other people drink. You do not have to take a drink that is given to you. Practice ways to politely say “no.” For example, you can tell people you feel better when you drink less. Stay away from people who give you a hard time about not drinking.
Stay Active: What would you like to do instead of drinking? Use the time and money spent on drinking to do something fun with your family or friends. Go out to eat, see a movie or play sports or a game.
Get Support: Cutting down on your drinking may be difficult at times. Ask your family and friends for support to help you reach your goal. Talk to your doctor if you are having trouble cutting down. Call your EAP. Get the help you need to reach your goal.
Watch Out for Temptations: Watch out for people, places or times that make you drink, even if you do not want to. Stay away from people who drink a lot or bars where you used to go. Plan ahead of time what you will do to avoid drinking when you are tempted. Do not drink when you are angry or upset or have a bad day. Keep only a small amount or no alcohol at home. Don't keep temptations around. These are habits you need to break if you want to drink less.
Don't Give Up: Most people do not cut down or give up drinking all at once. Just like a diet, it is not easy to change. That is okay. If you do not reach your goal the first time, try again. Remember: get support from people who care about you and want to help. Do not give up!
