Conquering Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol does not take away stress or stressful situations. It only masks and numbs the problem for a short while.

In extreme cases, hospitalization is required for the safety and health of the addict to kick the habit. Attending AA meetings or getting a sponsor that the addict can talk to when the craving comes on too strong may also be helpful. The first hurdle to get past is the first seven to ten days without drinking. Doctors can prescribe medicines and aids to take the edge off for that time period. A craving for sweets will occur. Eating sugar-free candy will keep the addict from ending up with a weight problem, too. The addict should stay active by exercising, walking, running, swimming, or any other physical activity. Staying busy to keep the mind off the addiction is also important. Drinking alot of non-alcoholic liquids such as water is important. Although alcohol causes bloating, it also dehydrates the body. When a person stops drinking, they will actually lose weight as their body becomes less bloated.

The next hurdle to overcome is staying sober. Depression will often be felt, but the addict must try to keep a positive attitude and know in his heart how much better he will feel without the alcohol in his body. Mood swings and periods of anger may also occur. One big mistake that those addicted to alcohol make is that they think that they can "treat" themselves to a drink or two every once in a while or take a drink to calm the craving without "falling off the wagon". That is not true. Once the alcohol is out of a person's system, they need to keep it that way. One drink can put that person right back to where they were before they quit drinking. The addict should try to stay away from so-called friends who only want to visit or be visited to drink. The addict should not be afraid or embarressed to tell others that he or she quit drinking. The addict needs to relearn how to enjoy life without alcohol. Soft drinks, tea, water, coffee, or any other non-alcoholic beverage can be enjoyed instead of alcohol at baseball or football games, concerts, picnics, or celebrations. Getting plenty of rest is also important. A good night's sleep and not waking up with a hangover the next day is a wonderful way to start the day. The omission of alcohol in a person's body will make that person feel more clear headed, sharp, attentive, and energetic.

It is a strong person who cares about himself and others by acknowledging that they have a problem and takes the steps to solve it. By conquering the habit of drinking, the addict may not only be saving his or her own life but also the life of someone else that the addict may or may not know.