Alcohol abuse is a widespread problem that affects people around the world, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Quitting alcohol can be extremely challenging, but it’s also something that many other people have done before you, and resources are available to help make the process easier and more successful. Whether you want to learn about how to stop drinking or just learn about resources for when you’re ready to quit, the right resources can help get you started on your journey to recovery from alcohol abuse.

A Guide to Getting Sober

If you’re interested in quitting drinking alcohol, there are many tools and resources available to help you succeed. Read on for helpful tips on how to stop drinking and get back on track with your goals and ensure that you don’t fall back into the same bad habits again.

1. Go to a Recovery Center

If you’re struggling with alcohol addiction, treatment is necessary. Going to rehab is a viable option if you’re hoping to quit drinking for good. Inpatient recovery centers can be quite expensive, so take a look at your insurance coverage and make sure it will cover enough of your bills for you to get back on track. If your insurance does not cover enough of your expenses, find out what funding is available for those who need help paying for their recovery treatment.

There are plenty of options out there that allow even individuals without health insurance to receive care in an intensive outpatient or residential facility. Once you’ve settled on a plan, schedule an appointment with a therapist who specializes in addictions.

2. Join a Program to Help You Quit

There are a variety of resources that can help you wean yourself off alcohol. Most programs will include guidance and counseling, as well as group support, to give you all of the tools you need to get sober. If you’re ready to quit drinking but not quite sure how or where to start, you can check out the Sober In Seven program and look at the resources provided by the author Andy, who is a sober coach in the UK. When used in conjunction with professional medical help and aftercare support from friends and family, a program like this may be exactly what you need to start your recovery journey toward a healthier lifestyle and renewed focus on positive goals in life.

3. Become a Member of Alcoholics Anonymous

If you think that you have a drinking problem and want some support, going to AA is one of your best options. The organization’s main tenet is anonymity, so don’t be afraid that someone might find out you’re a member. As long as you truly want to stop drinking, all members will welcome your participation regardless of how much experience they have. There are many other resources available for recovering alcoholics, but since AA has been around for almost 90 years, it offers time-tested methods.

4. Work with a Licensed Therapist

Working with a therapist can be one of the most helpful things you can do when you’re trying to kick your alcohol habit. A therapist can help design an action plan for you, work through cravings and other potential issues, set up reminders and goals, and provide the support that only another human being in recovery can give. If you don’t have insurance or can’t afford a fee-based therapy practice, don’t worry—there are plenty of free resources online and off.

5. Find a Mentor

The Internet has made self-education easier than ever before, but that doesn’t mean it’s always more effective. When learning a new skill or developing an idea, you’re likely to hit obstacles and feel confused at times—these are opportunities for input from others. Having a professional mentor can help keep you on track, and help propel your progress forward when you hit bumps in the road. Find someone who is doing what you want to do and get acquainted with them (online or in-person). Ask questions about their experiences, what they’d do differently given another chance, and how they’ve dealt with similar challenges.

Drinking alcohol can be an enjoyable part of the daily routine for many people, but that doesn’t mean it’s good for one’s health. If you’re trying to stop drinking, use these resources to help you get sober.