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What to Do When an Alcoholic Wants a Drink

Alcoholism is a lifelong disease that is a constant struggle, to varying degrees. The want for a drink is always there somewhere; it just manifests itself in different ways based on things thrown at the alcoholic throughout his life. The hardest part about being an alcoholic is staying sober. Most alcoholics need help doing this, especially in tough moments in life that are so easily alleviated with alcohol--a breakup or troubling news--or even happy moments, such as a celebration of something.

  1. Call The Alcoholic's "Sponsor"

    • Most recovering alcoholics, especially at the beginning of their recovery, have a sponsor, someone they can call or be with at any time to help them deal with the desperate want for a drink. Sponsors are often recovering alcoholics or addicts themselves who have gotten their addiction under enough control that they can advise and help others through their addictions. The sponsor is a welcome face to a recovering alcoholic on the brink of "falling off the wagon."

    Do an Activity That Isn't Near Alcohol or Alcohol Consumption

    • Obviously, going to a bar is not in the cards, but even restaurants, bowling alleys and sporting events serve alcohol. Have a list of things ready to go and do if your recovering friend or loved one wants a drink. Seeing a movie is a good option, as is going to a mall to go shopping, working out or going for a long hike. Anything that can distract the desire for drinking or channel that addictive urge into something else can help.

    Be "There" for Them

    • If you truly care about this person, be there for him when he wants a drink. His relationship with you and the other important people in his life is in the balance with his powerful addiction. Offer help and guidance as best you can, plant "seeds" that he has been doing the right thing, the good thing by being sober. You cannot cure his alcoholism, but you can help the recovering alcoholic work to do it himself. Make sure he knows that you care about him and his well-being and that you are there for him. Fill the empty void he is trying to fill with alcohol.

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