• Question: I am addicted to drinking alcohol and I would wish to stop drinking,what should I do to stop it

    Asked by Madaraka to Dorcas, Jay Oty, Mel, Chapa, Priscilla on 3 Oct 2014.
    • Photo: Melissa Kapulu

      Melissa Kapulu answered on 3 Oct 2014:

      @242heaa26 thanks for asking

      Addiction, whether it is alcohol, food or drug can be very harmful and destructive to ones well being. Alcohol abuse is one of the most common forms of substance abuse. Getting off addiction can be a very long and painful process as you have already become used to taking the substance. But do not despair as there is hope. As long as you are determined to stop, you will fight to end until you are free of the addiction. One thing you should know is that no matter how bad the situation is, as long as you are willing you can overcome.

      The first step is identifying that you have a problem. And by asking this question it means that you realise you have a problem. The second step is to accept support and stick to a plan that will help you become free of the addiction. A further step is to talk about the problem (which you are doing – so you already on the path to recovery). A third step is to begin to wean yourself or slowly reduce the amounts you are taking on a daily basis. Remember Rome was not built in a day so it is process and you have to be patient to see it through to the end. Set milestones and targets for you to achieve through the whole process. For instance you can say that by week 1 I should have cut down my drinking by a quarter and then you can increase this in the following week to half and so on. In no time you will have totally weaned yourself of the habit (bad habits die hard so just soldier on).

      If you cannot commit to a plan on your own there is help, support, guidance and counseling. I have seen a substance abuse clinic here at Kilifi District hospital and I believe they have counselors and support services that can help you with your addiction.

      Out of curiosity, how long have you had this addiction and how old are you? Remember there is help at every turn and all you have to do is reach out and ask. I commend you for reaching out. We just have to move to the next step in helping you beat this addiction.

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