The beginning of a new year is a good time to reflect on some of our habits, especially the bad ones that tend to take a heavy toll on our lives. Alcohol exists as a vice, which we can quickly turn to when celebrating, relaxing, or trying to manage our problems. As a result, many people can become dependent on this liquid crutch, without even realising the unintended negative effects it can really have on us.

From a glass of wine at dinner to a flute of champagne at a wedding, Alcohol – like most things – is there to be enjoyed in moderation. However, when one factors in the everyday stresses, mental health challenges, and emotional pressures that we’re faced with, Alcohol can become a dangerously accessible counterbalance, leading to many people developing an unhealthy habit – drinking too much of it.

Alcohol Addiction vs Abuse

In today’s world, we’re all acutely aware of the dangers of Alcohol addiction. A powerful narcotic, Alcohol is easy to obtain, legal and relatively affordable. Unchecked, a reckless drinking habit can quickly become a full-blown addiction. Alcoholics face a difficult journey to recovery, with years of treatment ahead of them, and a need to be constantly vigilant beyond recovery. So endemic is the problem of Alcohol addiction that there are massive support structures in place. From state-sponsored programs to private facilities, for decades Alcoholics have turned to these programs for help.

But what about the rest of those who drink? The overwhelming majority of Alcohol consumers will never become Alcoholics, however, with increasing levels of consumption among Australians, those facing habits of excess will fall into the “Abuse” category. Essentially this relates to people who drink more than they should, but not enough to be classified as addicted. Often, this behaviour can lead to more severe problems, and eventually addiction itself.

Cause and Effect

Besides the well-documented liver and issues associated with long-term Alcohol Abuse, there are a myriad of other problems linked to drinking excessively. From high blood pressure to heart disease, Alcohol can take a heavy toll on the physical body. However, often the worst damage is done to the mind itself.

Alcohol dependency can cause depression, compromise mental health and create behavioural problems. Ironically, those already dealing with these challenges often turn to Alcohol to deal with them. This results in a never-ending loop of cause (stress and mental health concerns) and effect (Abuse).

Taking it Easy

Have you ever tried to go without a drink for an extended period only to find that abstaining is a little more difficult than you thought? For people who Abuse Alcohol, but aren’t addicted, the help available to them is vague at best. So, where do we turn for a helping hand when we choose to cut back on our Alcohol intake? Quitting drinking entirely is a choice of last resort, and reducing your intake is often a viable option.

While many programs address behaviours within an Alcohol-fuelled environment, Hypnotherapy can be a unique alternative in that it looks to treat the underlying causes of Abuse, focusing on the emotional and mental elements that trigger the desire to imbibe. Since most clients are merely looking to scale back on their intake, instead of quitting Alcohol entirely, Hypnotherapy is an ideal option for those looking to manage their habits and take control of their cravings.

Hypnocare can Help in Cutting Back

Hypnocare Hypnotherapy Clinic is geared around offering treatments which encourage and assist clients in taking control of how often, and how much they drink. Therapists work to help clients find ways to condition their habits, triggers and behaviours that lead to binge drinking and overconsumption. Through making use of deep relaxation techniques and positive reprogramming, these habits and behaviours can be changed or broken. Beyond facing the challenges which lead to Alcohol Abuse, Hypnotherapy also allows clients to explore the underlying issues at hand, creating a space that fosters wellness and positivity in their lives.

Hypnotherapy for reducing Alcohol consumption can be a sustainable treatment that bridges the treatment gap between Abuse and addiction – allowing clients to manage their lifestyle trends and focus on general wellness. Cutting back on how much we drink can be more challenging than we’d like to admit. So give it a shot you might be surprised at the results.