I don’t want to be one of those people who march back into AA after one day sober, tail between their legs. Of all the things I learned from AA, one thing I know for https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/dealing-with-internal-and-external-relapse-triggers/ sure is that drinking and me don’t mix. I stopped attending meetings because a lot of stuff I was instructed to believe became less useful the more “sober” I got.
Free Alternatives to AA
It emphasizes the importance of maintaining an optimistic outlook, reaching out to support networks, prioritizing self-care, and continually refining strategies based on previous experiences. Exercise can support your recovery by boosting your brain, battling the brain disorder of alcohol use disorder. This isn’t talked about in 12-step much but it’s a life-saver. Check out why person in long-term recovery and counselor, Chrissy Taylor, encourages exercise in early sobriety.
Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS)
Getting sober without AA is possible with the right tools and support, including sober living programs, detoxification, and mental health awareness. Mental health is an integral component of a successful sobriety journey. Many individuals struggling with addiction also suffer from co-existing mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety. These conditions not only increase susceptibility to substance abuse but also complicate recovery efforts if left unaddressed. A primary reason 12-step works for so many people (in my opinion) is it sets you up with a new social scene, full of folks just like yourself.
Change your social scene
There is nothing wrong with being proud of yourself for what you have done and are doing now. Being open and honest about sobriety also takes a measure of self-awareness, bravery, integrity, and dignity that many people will not understand unless they’ve struggled. That said, here are 4 things I have learned that are useful in getting sober from alcohol without AA. I’ve also witnessed the fantastic potential and empowerment that often emerges by building relationships with people in recovery. Extraordinary magic comes with being in the company of people that are in the process of growing beyond what they knew they could ever be capable of.
Getting Sober Without AA—What Are Your Options?
A 2018 study found that MI can have a positive effect on people with AUD, including increasing their self-esteem (7). Check with your health insurance provider, ask friends for referrals, or browse therapy directories like Psychology Today and GoodTherapy. A 2014 study showed that “baseline motivation and self-efficacy” are key predictors of moderation success (5). In other words, those who are motivated and believe they can successfully moderate their drinking tend to have the best results. It’s understandable if you don’t want to share this part of your life with friends or family.
- Another way to stay sober without AA is to exercise regularly.
- To my surprise, I didn’t need a drink in my hand to enjoy everything the resort had to offer.
- The SMART Recovery program is not based on a spiritual foundation like AA; instead, it’s foundation is research-based.
- 1000 people attending an AA meeting at a megachurch is just as powerful as a single person becoming sober on their own for one day.
Medications can reduce these cravings by rebalancing your brain chemistry, and even blocking some of the effects of alcohol. This can help you move forward more quickly, and makes it easier to focus on behavior change or establishing new habits. It’s a science-backed approach to treatment, and an empowering, modern getting sober without aa way to quit drinking without AA. Rehab programs are the right choice for some people, but they can be too expensive for others. Also, with the exception of online rehab, these programs can be very disruptive to work and family life. Finally, many residential and outpatient programs are based on 12 step philosophy.
Such resources may supply you with the courage to stay sober. If you do not have internet access at home, it is free in many places, including libraries. If you do not feel that AA is the program for you, the internet has many resources and may help people stay sober.
If you’re wondering if it’s possible to achieve sobriety without attending AA meetings, the answer is a resounding yes. I tried to go to AA the first time I got sober, and it was not a good fit for me. RehabAdviser.com is a tool for individuals seeking to find a Drug and/or Alcohol Rehab. We provide a list of treatment centers located within the United States that are JHACO or CARF accredited.
Drug-resistant bacteria are killing more and more humans. We need new weapons.
There are endless options to try for support and guidance if you’d struggling with alcohol. Women also take responsibility for their own actions, understanding that each person is in control of their own happiness, and each woman is worthwhile and competent. WFS uses 13 acceptance statements to support its “New Life” Program that asks members to focus their energies on positivity over negativity. Efforts are made to accept thoughts and actions as self-destructive, learn how to cope with the emotions and behaviors that are created through alcohol addiction, and then overcome them. Women are encouraged to go over the 13 acceptance statements each morning and then work through them throughout the day, reflecting on them each night. If you are wondering how to stay sober without AA, you have many options.