Should I stop drinking alcohol?

There are many social benefits to alcohol use, and most people can enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced lifestyle.

Drinking is also a big part of the American economy, an industry worth more than 200 billion dollars in the US market alone. And while alcohol use is embedded and glorified in American culture, the inconvenient truth is that drinking is not for everyone. While drinking may contribute to the US economy, according to the CDC, it also costs the American economy about the same in healthcare-related costs ($28 billion), reduced workplace productivity ($179 billion), and motor vehicle accidents ($13 billion). Economics aside, for people who drink heavily, quitting drinking is one of the best things they can do for their health. Alcohol is a toxin, after all, and can increase the risk of developing numerous health problems.

While most people can enjoy alcohol responsibly, more than 6% of Americans (1 in 12 men or 1 in 25 women) have an alcohol use disorder. This diagnosable health condition means a drinking problem that is negatively impacting their quality of life.

Wait – do you mean they’re an “alcoholic?” Dr. Fathi and most modern-day addiction experts no longer use this word as it can be stigmatizing. 

It is also important to point out that alcohol use disorders are on a spectrum – they range from mild, to moderate, to severe. A minor drinking problem looks very different than a severe one (i.e., someone who drinks daily and is physically dependent on alcohol.) We all know a person or two for whom excessive drinking has caused significant problems or even ruined their life.

Why do people develop drinking problems?

One could blame the culture of binge drinking in college and “drinking games,” which encourage heavy use. Workplace culture – like the corporate finance culture in New York in the 80s, 90s, and 2000s – normalized drinking after work. Shows like Sex and the City and numerous others glorified drinking for women. Biology, heredity, and childhood trauma are contributing factors, as well. The truth is there are numerous factors and pathways that lead to alcohol addiction.

Regardless of the reasons, when a person develops an addiction to alcohol that is severe, they should consider breaking up with booze. 

Here are 12 reasons that might suggest you have a problem with alcohol and should consider quitting or taking a break: 

1. 🚩 You drink every day and are physiologically dependent. Note, if this is you, stopping abruptly could be dangerous. Consult a medical provider before you decide to quit. 
2. 🚩 You try to drink in moderation but overdo it almost every time. 
3. 🚩 You can’t go two weeks without alcohol. 
4. 🚩 You behave like a different person when drinking and have hurt important people in your life.
5. 🚩 Alcohol use is getting in the way of your best life.
6. 🚩 Despite warning signs, you keep telling yourself it’s not a problem.
7. 🚩 You lie to yourself and others about how much you drink.
8. 🚩 You’re showing up to important events late or drunk.
9. 🚩 You prioritize your life, or schedule, around drinking.
10. 🚩 alcohol is the common denominator in all your life’s problems.
11. 🚩 You’re often drinking and getting drunk alone.
12. 🚩 You sometimes drive intoxicated rather than taking an Uber.

If you are looking at this list, checking yes to some of these red flags, and justifying to yourself or others why you don’t have a problem… you should probably consider stopping, taking a break, or cutting back on drinking. And no matter how many problems alcohol may have caused in your life, it is never too late to make a positive change. If you drink heavily or daily, you must talk with your primary care provider or another medical professional before you decide to stop drinking. If you drink daily or are physically dependent on alcohol, stopping abruptly could be dangerous and cause seizures, death, or other health events. 

For people with severe drinking levels, quitting drinking can be challenging, yet also the best thing they can do for themselves.

The good news is if you quit, you’re not alone. One out of three Americans does not drink alcohol at all. More and more Americans are enjoying a sober lifestyle. Many celebrities or successful people do not drink or stop drinking because of addiction problems.

What to do if you want to stop or cut back on drinking?

• Speak to your primary care provider or another medical professional, and be radically honest with how much you drink. Get some objective, expert feedback.
• If you’re a daily drinker, get an evaluation to determine if you need rehab, detox, or an intensive outpatient program. These are two great options in Fairfield county (Mountainside and Silver Hill Hospital) 
• Talk to a psychologist, therapist, or counselor specializing in addiction and customize a plan that works for you.
• Get support. Tell close family members and friends that you are quitting alcohol and your reasons why. Consider joining support groups like AA or Smart recovery.
• Try downloading Quit Drinking apps like Drink Aware or Drink Control, or I am sober.

Bottom Line: Quitting drinking can feel like a huge endeavor but can be well worth the effort.

It is an accomplishment that can pay dividends in numerous ways for the rest of your life. I have been humbled to see that when many of my clients have quit drinking, their success in relationships, careers, and quality of life flourishes. They often get promoted, married, reach health goals, and their lives improve in countless other ways. Getting the right plan and support in place can help ensure you are successful in your recovery journey. Once you succeed, you’ll find that a happier, healthier life is a priceless accomplishment.

Need help managing your drinking? Reach out today.