Recognizing a Problem
Some Suggestions for Cutting Down
Write down why you want to cut down or quit. Whether it's to lose weight, feel better or stop having problems with your family, write down all the reasons. Then put the list where you will see it all the time (like your refrigerator). Then, you will take the challenge more seriously.
Write down why you want to cut down or quit. Whether it's to lose weight, feel better or stop having problems with your family, write down all the reasons. Then put the list where you will see it all the time (like your refrigerator). Then, you will take the challenge more seriously.
Do:
Hanging out with drinkers when you're not drinking:
It can be hard when friends are getting drunk and you're not. You may have to leave early or not go in the first place.
While you are there, try these ideas:
- Set a limit on how many drinks to have. You goal might be none during the week, or stop at 3 drinks on any weekend day. This will get your mind set not to over drink.
- Have a non-alcoholic drink, like soda or juice between each alcoholic drink.
- Take a vacation from drinking. Notice how good you feel, physically and emotionally.
- Take the money you save and put in a jar. Then use it for that thing you've been wanting.
- Eat before you drink, and munch while you drink.
- Keep a drinking diary and write down how many drinks you had. See how much money you saved in a month's time.
- Get really active. What do you want to do now that you have more time? Exercise? More campus involvement? A trip?
- Keep going out with people who won't support you. Make alternate plans with friends who are less inclined drink a lot or won't drink at all.
- Guzzle. Go slow and make each drink last an hour. Pass on drinking games and shots because you'll end up drinking more than you wanted.
- Keep alcohol in your room or apartment.
- Go to places where you'll be bored if not drinking.
- Drink when you had a bad day. Find better ways to handle stress, like going to Campus Rec.
Hanging out with drinkers when you're not drinking:
It can be hard when friends are getting drunk and you're not. You may have to leave early or not go in the first place.
While you are there, try these ideas:
- Tell people, "I'm not drinking tonight" or "I'm getting up early" or "I'm taking a night off."
- Go with a friend who won't be drinking or will only going be having a couple.
- Keep a half empty cup in your hand.
