1. Commit to a Life Without Alcohol and Drinking
Alcohol abuse and addiction can take over your life and you may not even realize it until you get ready to stop drinking. Look at what alcohol abuse and addiction costs you, and what the benefits are when you get treatment and recover from your substance abuse.
2. Set Goals and Prepare Yourself for Recovery
If you have been using alcohol for an extended time then recovery will be a big change. Your alcohol abuse and addiction may have taken over every aspect of your life, and when you stop then everything will change. Set the goals that you want to reach and steps on how to accomplish these so that you will be better prepared.
3. Sober Up Safely
Alcohol abuse and addiction can cause medical problems if this substance is suddenly stopped without medical oversight. This is especially true if you have been abusing alcohol for a long time or in large amounts. Speak with your doctor or other medical professional to ensure that your safety is monitored during the detox period.
4. Find a New Meaning for Your Life Without Alcohol
Once you have been treated for your alcohol abuse and addiction you will need to find a new meaning to your life. Often alcohol becomes the meaning to even get up in the morning or get through the day during the addiction, and you must change the way you view this drug and your life.
5. Create a Relapse Prevention Plan for Triggers and Cravings
A relapse prevention plan is essential, and this is a blueprint to tell you how to cope with cravings and deal with triggers when these happen. When you plan ahead and you are prepared for these emotions and feelings then you will be able to handle them without relapsing into old habits.
6. Build a Network of Support People and Services
A support network is very important for recovery from alcohol abuse and addiction. Create a network of support that you can use when you feel the urge to drink coming on or you have a craving. The bigger your support network is the less likely you will be to go back to drinking after treatment.
