Support

How to Support a Partner Quitting Alcohol

How to Support a Partner Quitting Alcohol

How to Support a Partner Quitting Alcohol

Is your other half kicking the booze to the curb?

Good on them, and good on you for wanting to help.

Let's dive into how you can be the rock your partner needs during this journey.

Understand Their Why

First things first:

  • Listen to their reasons for quitting
  • Don't judge, just understand
  • Recognise it's their decision, not yours

Empathy is your new best mate.

Educate Yourself

Knowledge is power:

  • Learn about alcohol addiction and recovery
  • Understand withdrawal symptoms
  • Research support options available

The more you know, the better you can help.

Create a Supportive Environment

Out with the old, in with the new:

  • Remove alcohol from your home
  • Stock up on alcohol-free alternatives
  • Suggest new hangout spots that don't revolve around drinking

Make your home a safe haven.

The IMPOSSIBREW® Option

Want to offer a satisfying alternative?

Try IMPOSSIBREW® together.

It's non-alcoholic but gives a relaxing buzz.

Might help ease the transition.

Be Patient and Understanding

It's not always smooth sailing:

  • Expect mood swings and irritability
  • Don't take it personally if they snap
  • Understand that recovery isn't linear

Patience is a virtue, especially now.

Encourage New Habits

Out with the old, in with the new:

  • Suggest trying new hobbies together
  • Get active - exercise is a great distraction
  • Explore alcohol-free social activities

New habits can replace old ones.

Celebrate Milestones

Every step counts:

  • Acknowledge small victories
  • Plan special treats for bigger milestones
  • Keep track of days sober together

Positive reinforcement works wonders.

Communicate Openly

Keep those lines open:

  • Check in regularly about their progress
  • Share your own feelings too
  • Be honest, but kind

Communication is the foundation of support.

Take Care of Yourself Too

Don't forget about you:

  • Seek support for yourself if needed
  • Maintain your own social life
  • Set boundaries when necessary

You can't pour from an empty cup.

Be a Sober Ally

Actions speak louder than words:

  • Consider quitting or reducing your own drinking
  • Be the designated driver
  • Attend support meetings with them if invited

Show solidarity in action.

Help Manage Stress

Stress is a common trigger:

  • Learn stress-reduction techniques together
  • Offer to take on extra responsibilities when they're struggling
  • Create a calm home environment

Less stress, less temptation.

Plan for Social Situations

Be prepared:

  • Discuss strategies for handling social events
  • Offer to be their 'out' if things get tough
  • Suggest responses for when others offer drinks

A good offence is the best defence.

Encourage Professional Help

Know when to call in the experts:

  • Suggest therapy or counselling
  • Look into support groups together
  • Be open to medical interventions if recommended

Sometimes, love isn't enough - and that's okay.

The Bottom Line

Supporting a partner quitting alcohol is a journey for both of you.

It's about patience, understanding, and creating a new, healthier life together.

FAQs

Should I stop drinking too?

It can be helpful, but it's not mandatory. Discuss with your partner what would be most supportive for them.

What if they relapse?

Relapse can be part of the recovery process. Don't judge, but encourage them to get back on track. Seek professional help if needed.

Can we still keep alcohol in the house?

It's best to remove it, especially in the early stages. If you must keep some, store it out of sight. Remember, even non-alcoholic beers usually contain trace amounts of alcohol (typically 0.5% ABV or less, similar to a ripe banana), so be mindful of these too.

How to support a partner quitting alcohol? It's about creating a supportive environment, being patient, and embarking on this journey together. Here's to a healthier, happier future for you both!

Reading next

How to Enjoy Nights Out Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free Summer BBQ for Beginners