How do I quit drinking alcohol?

From a student:

"How do I quit drinking alcohol?"

This question is a little bit difficult for me to answer since I don't know the exact situation. But, I'm going to assume first of all that you are not addicted to alcohol and may be drinking to be social- at parties or with your friends. If this is the case and you truly want to stop drinking, my personal advice would be to find excuses NOT to drink. Make plans to do other things ahead of time so that when those friends ask you to drink with them, you already have something else to do. Don't wait until Friday night to make plans because when those friends ask you to go to that party or drink with them, you won't have a reason not to. I know Clay City is a small town, but there are things you can do that have nothing to do with drugs or alcohol. Find something you truly enjoy and can be passionate about and do that- whether it is playing ultimate frisbee with your friends, playing the guitar, canoeing, or taking a road trip to Indy to watch an Indians or Pacers game. When you make plans to do things that you are excited about, you won't even notice that you are missing the next big party or chance to get high.

Also, something I realized a few months ago is that whatever your friends are doing, whether it be partying or going to church, you will end up doing whatever they do. Choose your friends wisely, because before you know it, you will be just like them.

If you or anyone else that reads this does feel like they are addicted to alcohol, I have posted a link on the home page of this website for treatment centers in the community. I have been to an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting (for a class project), and yes, they can be a little bit boring. BUT, every person there was very friendly and welcoming and they all want to help you. You could find people there that will keep you accountable and make sure you can get through the struggle of addiction. There is also a link for the Hamilton Center, which has a lot of different counselors there for this very purpose-to talk to people about their addictions and find solutions for them.

If you need anything else let me know. If you ever want to talk to me directly, email me at bwellman@purdue.edu and I can give you my phone number.