Many of those with alcohol use disorder or heavy alcoholism (not everyone, especially high-functioning alcoholics) struggle financially as they are not able to hold jobs and have to borrow or even steal to obtain alcohol. That you have to choose abstinence and that moderation simply will not work? What about being told that AA is the only way to go and that all other https://www.mhalarmes.com/goodbye-letter-to-addiction-template-download-2/ methods are not well-documented to create lasting change? I want to explore these ideals and help present information so you can make an informed decision for yourself. You know you better than anyone else but when we delve into the realm of addiction, sometimes hearing other perspectives can help. Do you want to cut down on your drinking rather than give up alcohol completely?

Drinking in Moderation vs. Abstinence

• A sober lifestyle is something to be proud of, and the team at Monument is here to provide answers and encouragement throughout your journey.
• For example, a boundary might be, “I will not drink on weeknights.” The beauty of the MM approach is its flexibility; you can adjust these boundaries as you learn more about yourself.
• Evidence suggestions that harm reduction treatment programs can help people struggling with alcohol and/or substance addictions.
• There are many paths to wellness, and it is for the individual to choose the right goal for them.

Recovery is about more than just stopping the substance use—it’s about rebuilding your life. By choosing abstinence and using other evidence-based practices, you have the best opportunity to heal both physically drug addiction and emotionally, free from the cycles of addiction. If you’re ready for this type of future, talk to a member of our admissions team today. Given our findings, I think it would be hard to argue that people who struggle with alcohol problems have to accept abstinence as their goal in treatment and in life.

Put Your Plan into Action

Clients who choose abstinence after being unable alcohol abstinence vs moderation to moderate consistently are often more motivated and personally invested in making abstinence work for them. This way, we can gain a clearer understanding of whether learning to drink in moderation is a viable long-term strategy for those recovering from AUD. It’s also essential to recognize that treatment philosophies can significantly impact recovery outcomes, highlighting the need for personalized approaches that extend beyond traditional therapeutic methods.

Can Alcoholics Drink Again in Recovery?

For some individuals, alcohol may have been used as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or other emotional challenges. Developing healthy alternatives can be crucial for maintaining long-term success with either approach. Personal experiences with alcohol-related problems should also be taken into account.

• During this phase, complete abstinence from alcohol is often necessary to prevent relapse and establish a strong foundation for long-term recovery.
• It’s also important to know that you can change certain circumstances, and therapy can aid in helping you set boundaries that empower your progress.

The success of treatment depends on factors like the person’s motivation, support system, and the severity of their condition. Ultimately, the choice between harm reduction and abstinence should be guided by individual needs, preferences, and clinical assessment. A one-size-fits-all approach is unlikely to be effective in treating AUD, a condition that varies widely in severity, context, and underlying causes.

• With flexible scheduling, insurance acceptance, and a commitment to helping clients discover their authentic selves beyond addiction, True North Recovery Services provides the foundation for lasting recovery and a more fulfilling life.
• The most important thing is to choose a goal that feels both meaningful and realistic for your life.
• Identifying situational factors such as our individual goals and alcohol’s negative effects on our life can help us decide between drinking moderately and abstinence.
• Building a support system is one of the most effective steps you can take.

Knowing what happened can prove helpful later in the moderation management program. After two or three drinks, problem drinkers may feel great, which encourages them to drink more. However, after four or five drinks, they become sad and depressed, which compels them to drink more. This moderation management plan is designed so that the identity of any given person remains a secret, and participation in the scheme is not a requirement to continue for the rest of one’s life. Marks of dependence aren’t a piece of this program, because there is no disgrace included.