How to avoid becoming an alcoholic

Have you ever wondered if you drink too much alcohol? If you said yes, chances are that you may already have a problem!

We’re often our own worst enemies. If you’re under the impression that you could never be an alcoholic, think again. You could be born with a problem – having a family history of alcoholism increases your chances of becoming an alcoholic later in life. Or you’re simply adamant that you’re in control of your drinking, despite bingeing every night.

The reality is that when someone is an alcoholic, they’re never in control. Your body will constantly crave it, even though you know it’s bad for you. Over time and continued use, alcohol changes how your brain works, making you act & think differently.

The good news is that you don’t have to become an alcoholic! It doesn’t matter if it’s in your genes – you’re in control of your own destiny.

If you’re wondering how to avoid becoming an alcoholic, the best answer would be to simply stay away from alcohol, however for some people, this may not be possible. Here are some helpful guidelines that men & women can use:

• Try to not drink alcohol more than 3-4 days every week
• Females should never drink more than 3 drinks per day and 9 drinks per week. Anything above this limit is considered to be harmful drinking!
• Males should not drink more that 4 drinks per day and 14 drinks per week. Any amount higher than this limit is also dangerous.
• Learn how to say no. More often than not, people are bullied into drinking alcohol by their peers. Remember, it’s your responsibility to look after yourself, not theirs. If they don’t like the fact that you not binge drinking, then they’re probably not such good friends after all!
• Have you ever noticed at parties that the people that are lonely, shy, introverted or bored are usually the ones that drink the most? The moral of the story – find company & stay busy!
• Become the designated driver. This is the person given the duty of making sure that your friends or family arrive safely at home. Importantly, it gives you a good reason to not drink!

There are lots of ways to avoid becoming an alcoholic, but if you or a loved one already has a drinking problem, then it’s important to get professional help instead of quitting on your own. Your body may not be able to handle the fact that you have decided to go sober and the withdrawal symptoms that you may experience can put your health at risk.

The best & safest way to treat alcoholism is to get into an alcohol rehab centre, where you’ll receive medical care, counselling, therapy & education to ensure that you are able to live happily again.