Hello Greg,
Thank you for opening up and sharing this with us. I am sorry to hear that you are not doing as well as you were after Christmas. Know that you are not alone, we are here for support. It sounds like speaking to your wife is something that you feel is important even though it may be difficult to do so. I wish you all the best in approaching her with this topic.
In the meantime, read through the information provided on the site. Many members have found many different ways to cope with their desires, urges or thoughts about drinking. The following are some of the most common ways that others have used to deal with the urge or desire to have a drink. Pick the ones that make sense to you:
*Drink nonalcoholic beverages (e.g., water, soda, pop, juice, coffee, tea)
*Eat some food
*Engage in other activities (e.g., walk, sports, hobby, distract yourself by working around the house)
*Engage with others who aren’t drinking to distract you and help you get over the urge
*Think about how much money you’ll save by not drinking
*Try not to think about your desire to drink
*Think about the benefits of not drinking
*Reassure yourself that the thoughts and desires will go away on their own
*Leave or don’t go to places or situations where you’ll have the urge (e.g., parties, bars, or sporting events)
*Try to identify what’s causing the desire to drink
*Review your Toolbox to remember what you’ve learned from this program
*Help other people who can benefit from you advice or experience
Remember, if one method does not work well for you, you can try something else.
Also be sure to reward yourself for all your hard work!
Samantha, Health Educator
