How To Tell Your Friends That The Party's Over: Sober Beginnings
Written by Trevor Eaton, Posted on , in Section Essential Reads
There seems to be a sense of embarrassment that many people feel when it comes to letting others know that they have decided to quit drinking. You may feel like people will look down on you, or it will seem like you are weak and lack self control. No one wants to feel like they are not in control of their life, or that they have a problem, and they especially don’t want to feel like less of a person because of it. However, the truth of the matter is that most people engage in behavior at some point of their life that they aren’t proud of. Ironically, it is the act of admitting that you are an alcoholic that puts you back in control of your life, not the other way around.
Alcohol Has Become a Part of You
The problem with overcoming an addictive behavior is that it often has become such an large part of a person's life that they can't tackle it on their own. The physical reaction to consuming alcohol, drugs, or anything else that is addictive, causes the body to increase the production of dopamine. Eventually, the body becomes accustomed this higher level and develops a resistance. More of the substance is then required to get the same effect.
Trying to overcome this cycle is difficult, as the body will begin to go through withdrawals. This process is incredibly difficult and can occupy the majority of your thoughts. When all you think about is drinking, it can be near impossible to actually have long-term success.
Most people can easily spot someone who has a drinking problem. So, if you are that person you aren’t hiding anything and by admitting to it, you can overcome your addiction. If no one knows that you are trying to stop drinking, then they won’t be there to try and help you. In fact, they may continue to keep you on your old path, not understanding what you are trying to accomplish. Overcoming addiction is difficult, often can not be done by yourself, and shouldn’t be something that is hidden.
The best thing to do is realize the problem is bigger than any one person can handle. With this in mind, here are some steps you can take to help you be successful.
Create a support group
By letting others in, you can create a support community that will help you succeed. That’s not to say that some friends won’t tease you along the way, but they most likely will respect your decision and be proud of you when you succeed.
Find others with the same goal
Joining an organization such as Alcoholics Anonymous, or any other type of support group, can help you feel like you are not alone on your path to sobriety. It can help you keep your focus and allow you to know that there is someone to report back to at the end of the week. That level of accountability can help to keep you from regressing.
Go out with a plan
It is best to avoid situations where there is temptation, but if you must, plan ahead. There are many famous examples of people who have made the same journey such as Bradley Cooper, Russell Brand, and Rob Lowe. They knew it was time to make a change in their lives and they did it. So now that you have finally reached a point where you know it is time to start, how do you let others know?
How to Let Others Know
Do you post it on social media, do you throw a party at your house to make the announcement, or do you let people know on a one on one basis? Unfortunately there is no one right solution for everyone. Only you can know what’s right for you. No matter which method you choose to tell those close to you, do it with confidence. People will respect your commitment and will be more willing to help support you.
The journey won’t be easy. At times, it will even be very difficult. You may stumble along the path and slip back into old ways temporarily. Some can quit cold turkey, while others require a more gradual path. The important thing is the end result. If you really want to abstain from alcohol, don’t beat yourself up on your path towards that goal. Just take it one day at a time.
