How to Stop Drinking Wine

Drinking wine is part of many social rituals, from Catholic communion to toasting at wedding ceremonies, and it also is a staple beverage at dinner. Like many other foods or drinks, it can be beneficial when consumed in moderation and potentially devastating when used to excess. Whatever your personal reasons for wanting to stop drinking wine, you are in good company. Curbing the number of alcoholic drinks consumed is one of the most common health goals shared by adults.

Instructions

• 1

  Find a new hobby or social activity. If you drink out of boredom, finding a new hobby will occupy your mind and distract you from this temptation. If you are used to spending a lot of time in venues that serve wine, such as bars, finding a new social scene helps you shift your focus away from drinking as a social activity.

• 2

  Investigate wine alternatives. Perhaps you drink wine because you like the taste, but do not like the negative side effects of alcohol consumption. There are many nonalcoholic wines on the market. Ask a clerk at your local wine shop to help you find a nonalcoholic variety that approximates the taste of your favorite wine.

• 3

  Create financial incentives. Wine can be expensive, with bottles averaging up to $20 or more depending on the type, and many high-quality varieties cost well over $50. You might be surprised to find out just how much you're spending on wine, but it's important to add up those receipts and get a clear picture of how much damage wine is doing to your wallet. Put the money you usually spend on wine toward a tangible reward, such as a new dress or suit.

• 4

  Find other treatments for possible sleep or anxiety disorders. Many people drink wine in the evening because it helps them relax and fall asleep. If you find you have trouble sleeping or controlling your stress levels, see a doctor for a full check-up and to express your concerns. Stopping drinking wine might be as simple as treating the underlying reason you drink.

• 5

  Seek professional help if you need it. This could be as easy as telling your friends you are trying to stop drinking wine and asking them to support you. Or, if you have a more serious problem, you might want to talk to a counselor or join Alcoholics Anonymous. AA has helped many people successfully stop drinking alcohol.