The Struggle of Stress and Alcohol: An Unhealthy Dependency
The ever-pervasive problem of stress can make us reach out to unhealthy coping mechanisms, the most common being alcohol.
As a society, we’ve normalized the consumption of alcohol to deal with stress. However, an important question to ask is — if there were zero amounts of stress, would we still resort to alcohol? If you resonate with this query, you need to start building a life that is stress-free and healthier.
The path to a stress-free life is not impossible, despite the infinite possibilities that life throws at us. Solutions like meditation are great tools to navigate through stressful times. Consuming alcohol might provide temporary solace but eventually destroys our physical capacity to relax on our own, creating a vicious cycle of dependency.
Life is undoubtedly full of stress, but it’s crucial to understand that we don’t need to be stressed. There are millions of people dealing with the same amount of stress, without resorting to alcohol. They have mastered the art of positive thinking, choosing to focus on things that bring them joy, peace, and satisfaction.
Your lifestyle, including your nutrition and sleep patterns, plays a significant role in how you respond to stress. Incorporating healthier habits, like a balanced diet and a good night’s sleep, can help combat stress more effectively.
Resorting to alcohol to get through the day or to fall asleep is not a healthy practice and should not be used as a quick fix for stress. Your problems and stress won’t disappear with a sip of alcohol. They’ll still be there the next day, making life even more challenging.
As an ex-alcoholic and liver failure survivor, I can attest that the stress remains even after you sober up. In fact, it becomes even more challenging to navigate through it. However, it is essential to quit and seek help.
If what you’ve read resonates with you or someone you know, I’m here to provide the support you need.
Written by K O H D I | Beyond Sober
