What to do when you’re craving alcohol but don’t want to drink anymore:
Take a moment. Physically move if you can – get outside, stretch your body, go to the toilet. Breathe.
Reflect and work out what you want alcohol to be a shortcut to: confidence, happiness, escape, calm, rest, connection.
How else can you get that thing?
Say a positive affirmation, out loud if you can. I am fun. I am confident. I am happy. I am calm. I am safe. I am loved.
Take a few deep breaths.
Consider your options:
Leave
Stay and have an alcohol-free drink (or none)
Stay and have an alcoholic drink, knowing it’s a conscious decision that you’re happy with
Tell the people you’re with what’s going on
Say nothing and hope no one notices you’re struggling
What’s the kindest thing you can do for yourself?