It shouldn’t be a challenge to enjoy a few beers at a barbecue or wind-down cocktails with friends after work. Unfortunately, many factors contribute to alcohol addiction, so some people are simply healthier if they opt not to drink. However, there are other reasons to choose not to consume alcohol, which often helps reduce the stigma of being the only person alcohol abstinence vs moderation not partaking.
Abstinence vs. Moderation: Which Path is Right?
Exercise can help to reduce stress and anxiety, while rest can help to restore energy and focus. Seeking therapy or counseling can provide a safe space to process emotions and gain insight into your triggers. Mindfulness techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, walking meditation, STOP practice, body scans, and breathing exercises like five-finger breathing can help individuals stay mindful and focused during their recovery journey.
- As such, I think these results are very encouraging in terms of offering another possible solution for individuals who are looking to reduce their alcohol consumption and the problems that keep creeping up along with it.
- When we eliminate alcohol completely, we may experience alcohol withdrawal, which in some cases can be life-threatening.
- It also gives you a way to reframe the conversation if you’re gathered with friends and family so the focus is less on the substance and more on community.
- By evaluating the successes and setbacks of your past recovery attempts, you can make a more informed decision about the best approach moving forward.
Reflect on the alcohol use disorder criteria
- If you’re thinking about changing your relationship with alcohol, one of the first decisions you will make is whether you want to cut back or quit altogether.
- A key component of goal setting is also identifying what feels achievable.
- By exploring these alternatives, individuals can confidently navigate social situations and maintain their commitment to a sober life.
- Your unique circumstances, needs, and preferences will play a significant role in determining which path is best suited for you.
- The protective effect of coffee and tea on stroke risk may be driven, in part, by flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as positive effects on vascular function.
When combined with counseling, this approach is proven highly effective. Reframe supports you in reducing alcohol consumption and enhancing your well-being. Moderate drinking can be a form of mindful drinking, but mindful drinking includes other beneficial aspects, such as identifying triggers and noticing our emotions before and after drinking. Mindful drinking is a practice that promotes drinking with more self-awareness. Moderate drinking can be a form of mindful drinking, https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/meditation-for-addiction-recovery-methods-and-techniques/ as we’re setting limits on how much we’re choosing to drink. Opting for a life without alcohol offers a range of benefits, but it’s important to recognize its unique challenges.
What Causes Gambling Addiction?
However, a prospective study following almost 15,000 men at four-year periods found only an increased risk of minor weight gain with higher intakes of alcohol. 19 Compared to those who did not change their alcohol intake, those who increased their intake by 2 or more drinks a day gained a little more than a half-pound. It was noted that calorie intake (not from alcohol) tended to increase along with alcohol intake.
There is no “one size fits all” approach to changing your relationship with alcohol, and all pathways are unique. One person may start out with a moderation goal and later decide that a sober lifestyle more closely supports their aspirations and wellness. Another individual may pursue sobriety and later decide that they want to try to drink in moderation once they’ve clarified their boundaries. Total abstinence is not the only option when changing your relationship with alcohol.
