I Know I Should Quit Drinking—but I Haven’t Hit Rock Bottom

🌈 Abstract

The article is an advice column on addiction and recovery, addressing a reader's concerns about their heavy drinking habit and desire to change their thinking around it.

🙋 Q&A

[01] Drinking Habits and Consequences

1. What are the reader's drinking habits and concerns?

• The reader drinks multiple drinks, multiple nights per week, but it hasn't significantly affected their life yet.
• The reader loves drinking and doesn't want to quit, but knows they should.

2. What potential consequences of the reader's drinking are discussed?

• The reader's friend has had some issues like DUIs and waking up in strange places after drinking too much.
• The advice column author suggests the reader's drinking could potentially lead to similar problems or more serious consequences in the future.

3. What does the author suggest the reader consider regarding quitting drinking?

• The author challenges the reader to not wait until something terrible happens, and to get in front of the issue before it causes major problems.
• The author suggests the reader speak to a therapist or doctor to get support and ensure a safe transition if they decide to quit or reduce their drinking.

[02] Quitting Drinking and Seeking Help

1. What options for quitting drinking does the author suggest?

• The author shares their own experience of quitting drinking through a rehab program, Alcoholics Anonymous, therapy, meditation, and talking to other alcoholics.
• The author also suggests the Allen Carr "Easyway to Stop Drinking" book, as well as medications like naltrexone or Ozempic that a doctor can prescribe.

2. What does the author emphasize about getting help?

• The author emphasizes that the reader doesn't have to go through this alone, and that many people who have been in a similar situation are available to provide support.
• The author commends the reader for their courage in being honest about their drinking problem and reaching out for advice.