Steps to help you overcome alcohol addiction

We understand that taking the first step towards recovery from alcoholism can be challenging and often overwhelming.

If you want to start the journey and stop drinking, the five steps listed below show the options that are available to help you achieve your goal of leading a happier, fulfilled and alcohol-free life.

1. Accept that you need help

The most important first step for anyone with an alcohol addiction is to accept that they have a problem. You may have been in denial – sometimes for years – but the first step towards tackling your addiction is to admit that, like any disease, alcoholism is an illness that needs treating.

2. Speak to someone

You may want to find the right support by discussing your concerns with your GP or someone close to you who can provide the additional support you need to take the next step in your journey towards recovery.

3. Get help

There are a wealth of local and national support groups and self-help organisations, including charities such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and the Samaritans, who will be able to provide you with support and more information about alcohol addiction, including treatment options.

AA meetings allow you to share experiences of alcohol addiction with others who have been through similar circumstances. This can offer many people suffering from alcoholism a source of unity and strength towards solving both personal and collective addiction.

The Samaritans can be contacted by email, phone, post, or even through visiting a local Samaritans branch. They provide a safe and non-judgemental environment in which you can talk about your problems relating to alcoholism, explore options available to you, or even just discuss your thoughts and feelings.

4. See a professional

Often, alcohol is used as a coping mechanism as a result of underlying emotional issues, such as anxiety, depression or stress. Seeing a professional can help you to identify the reasons for your addiction so that you are able to confront and overcome them.

When you are ready to discuss further, Priory hospitals offer a free and confidential assessment with an experienced therapist, after which you will receive a personalised treatment programme. They can equip you with coping strategies and practical advice on how to stop drinking alcohol, using intensive talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or group therapy sessions.

5. Seek inpatient treatment

Detoxification programmes can help you to stop drinking alcohol within a safe environment. Residential treatment programmes with nursing care and intensive therapy sessions can allow you to understand more about your addiction and share your experiences with others going through the same process.