If it’s starting to feel like your 5 o’clock pour is automated rather than a conscious choice, it could be time to reassess your relationship with alcohol. We sat down with licensed psychotherapist and Monument adviser Laura Diamond to discuss how to think about your relationship with alcohol and potentially take steps to shift your behavior and mindset with the support of the new online platform Monument. To be diagnosed with an alcohol use disorder (AUD), there are certain criteria you need to meet and varying levels of severity and duration that classify your level of misuse. It is important to note, however, that not all AUD experiences are the same. Something that seems problematic to one person might not be for another person, and vice versa. A general rule of thumb is if you have a consistently strong urge to use alcohol, continue to drink despite negative consequences, or have withdrawal symptoms when you decrease or stop drinking, it is important to take a closer look at your drinking and obtain professional assistance. In addition, any increase in alcohol use could be a reason to seek support, especially if the increase is related to an effort to cope with negative emotions. Many people are drawn to the temporary calming effects of alcohol and use it to “soothe,” helping to distract from symptoms of anxiety or depression. This can, however, have the opposite effect, increasing psychological stressors and symptoms. Alcohol… Tips for approaching a loved one about their drinking: While you’re helping care for them, it’s key that you remember to take care of your own needs. Caretaking exhaustion and fatigue are prevalent when dealing with loved ones with alcohol use disorder. Remember to set boundaries, manage stress, and make sure you have your own support system. You can also check in with Monument’s friends and family support group: Caring for yourself while caring for someone in recovery. What’s more, Monument offers a sense of community: It’s a supportive social network that combats isolation and emphasizes accountability. Monument gives members the autonomy to make their own healthy and productive decisions with their treatment teams and, ultimately, empowers them to gain the tools to lead a productive and fulfilling life, on their own terms. If you feel like any of the information and advice above applies to you or someone you care about, learn more and connect to a therapist and/or physician through Monument here. Whether you’re confident you need support, or it’s something you simply want to explore, there’s strength in knowing what’s available to you, and that you are not alone.
