Exploring Your Relationship with Alcohol
Many of my clients express a desire to talk about the role drinking plays in their life. We live in a society in which alcohol consumption permeates social gatherings - whether it's a work happy hour, wedding or birthday celebration. However, just because we are surrounded by it does not always mean it's healthy. Some people recognize a negative impact alcohol plays in their relationships, their productivity or their mental health. Now let me start by saying that just because you have a desire to cut back on alcohol use does NOT always mean you have an alcohol abuse problem or are an alcoholic. Just like you might like to cut back on screen time or sugar intake, you also might have a desire to reduce the amount of alcohol you drink.
If you are at a place in your life where you are questioning if alcohol adds value to your life or is creating problems in your life- here are some questions to ask yourself as you engage in this exploratory process:
What is my intention when I make the decision to drink? (i.e. to have fun, to unwind, to numb emotions, to feel comfortable socially)
What mood or emotions am I typically experiencing prior to drinking?
What emotions do I start to notice while I am drinking?
How do I typically feel the next day?
Has my drinking ever interfered with my relationship, friendships or work performance?
What would it be like to give up drinking for a week? What about a month?
Am I able to set boundaries in regards to how much is okay for me to consume?
There is not a right or wrong way to answer these questions- this is merely a way to begin gaining more awareness for the relationship you have with alcohol.
Whether you are seeking complete sobriety, would like to improve your boundaries with drinking, or you would simply like to begin the conversation - I would love to meet you where you’re at and have this conversation with you.