Get support to stop drinking alcohol

Giving up alcohol or trying to control your drinking is personal. There is no right or wrong way to do it. The best approach is the one you feel might work for you.

To make this change in your life, you may decide to:

• do it on your own
• get support

Giving up alcohol by yourself

It can be difficult to tell people you are giving up alcohol or to ask for help. You may prefer not to tell anyone.

Make plans to cope with triggers and cravings. Decide on a date to stop. Planning ahead makes it less likely you will give in during moments of stress or temptation.

Do not be afraid to get help at any time if you feel you would benefit from it.

To get support online, you can email our alcohol helpline at helpline@hse.ie

Get support if you need it

Some people find it easier to overcome the challenges of giving up alcohol when they have the support of other people.

Support from friends and family

You may worry about telling friends and family you are giving up alcohol.

It may mean admitting that you may have a problem. Or you may feel you would be letting them down if you do not succeed.

At the same time, friends and family can be a great source of help and support.

Support from people with similar experiences

It can be a relief to talk with other people who have similar experiences.

Support from people who have been in a similar situation is sometimes called peer support.

Peer support includes:

• in-person support groups
• blogs - personal accounts of people changing their drinking habits
• online communities - you can share your experiences, ask questions and get advice

Peer support has been shown to prevent relapse. It can also improve emotional wellbeing.

Professional support

Professional support can help you to understand your situation. It can also help you to find suitable treatment.

Places to go for professional help include:

• your GP
• counselling services
• community alcohol and drug services
• residential treatment programmes

Alcohol dependence treatment and recovery