What most people don’t know is that there are a lot of alternatives to AA. If you have a drug or alcohol problem but don’t want to go to AA, keep reading. There are still plenty of ways to get the treatment you need and start the healthy lifestyle you deserve. If you find it difficult to make new, sober friends, try joining a support group.
Is it possible to quit drugs or drinking without the help of rehab or 12-step groups?
- There is no one-size-fits-all approach to sobriety, and that needs to be said.
- They can help you decide what treatment methods are right for you.
MM is a peer-support program that acknowledges that behaviors are changeable, and that alcohol abuse (which differs from dependence) is a habit that can be altered. SMART Recovery concepts help individuals to recognize that alcohol abuse can be destructive, and it creates problems emotionally, physically, socially, getting sober without aa and behaviorally. Some key takeaways to keep in mind include finding a support system that works for you, whether it be therapy, online forums, or support groups. It’s also important to develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress and triggers, such as exercise, mindfulness, or creative outlets.
Build Healthy Relationships
- As I said earlier, I set up my friends with my connections, so I didn’t have to be around drugs as often.
- Your attempt at harm reduction with psychedelics sounds similar to how I attempted to replace my alcohol/cocaine use with weed.
- If you’re having the thought that you want to get sober and want to know how to get clean, there’s probably already an underlying motivation.
- They focus on methods that use both Motivational Enhancement Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy components to engender change of self-destructive behaviors.
- Lastly, whether enrolled in a formal treatment program or you’re still contemplating sobriety, you may benefit from mutual support groups as a part of your lifelong recovery process.
- If you start focusing even on the smallest things you are grateful for, you will begin experiencing a shift in your overall thinking which, in turn, can greatly benefit your mental health and recovery.
- We met weekly for breakfast for several years until I lost contact.
Explore hobbies and interests that ignite your passion and sense of purpose. I cannot stress enough about the importance of solid support whether you are still using https://ecosoberhouse.com/ drugs or getting sober for the first time. If you’re wondering if it’s possible to achieve sobriety without attending AA meetings, the answer is a resounding yes.
Is Achieving Sobriety Possible Without Attending AA?
While Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) has been the traditional go-to solution for people struggling with addiction, it is not the only path to Sobriety. This practical booklet demonstrates through simple examples how A.A. Members throughout the world live and stay away from that “first drink” one day at a time. Covers topics such as attending events where alcohol is served, relationships in sobriety and much more. In AA, I have 8 years, 1 month, and 8 days (as of filing this column to my editor). IRL, though, I haven’t had a real drink or hard drug in more than nine years.
Comparing yourself to others is more likely to set you behind than push you forward. Celebrate each day spent sober and acknowledge those victories in a way that is special to you. While some individuals find comfort and support in religious beliefs or practices, it’s important to find a recovery approach that aligns with your personal values and beliefs. No, there are numerous alternatives to AA including self-help approaches, professional counseling, and medication-assisted treatment.
Depending on where you live or where the meetings are, AA groups might lean heavily toward one age, cultural background or gender. For example, a lot of people don’t feel comfortable with the religious aspects of AA. AA isn’t explicitly religious, but it did grow out of a Christian organization called The Oxford Group.
Ultimately, the decision to stay sober without AA is a personal one. It is important to explore all options and find what works best for you in your journey toward Recovery and Sobriety. This subreddit is a place to motivate each other to control or stop drinking. We welcome anyone who wishes to join in by asking for support, sharing our experiences and stories, or just encouraging someone who is trying to quit.
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