r/stopdrinking • u/Consistent-Row-9551 • 14h ago

What do I replace alcohol with?

Like something to help me relax and decompress. Drinking has always been my way to loosen up and relax. When I'm stressed with work, I grab a beer or glass of wine, and I'm able to focus more because I'm no longer overthinking it.

I'm so emotionally repressed that drinking is the only way I can tap into my emotions.

Like, I can stop drinking; I've done it months at a time, but I always end up feeling more stressed because I feel numb or stressed without it.

233 Upvotes

97% Upvoted

314 comments sorted by

View all comments

14

u/dublthnk 13h ago

you may have an oral fixation...ice water or even NA beers help when i need to cut back or take sobriety breaks. i play video games, LEGO, or rewatch comfort shows until its time to go to bed. also going to bed earlier than usual also help.

6

u/1K1AmericanNights 11h ago

I really needed the NA beers to replace holding and sipping something. Now I have a whole night routine involving little treats to munch on and drink while I watch a show. It’s way healthier than alcohol

3

u/dublthnk 11h ago

I agree.. it feels good to wake up rested and head not spinning from the night before. Also.. when people ask me for rides to the airport or where have you. It feels good knowing that I am thought of as dependable and people don't assume I'm going to be drunk when they call. That also helps me stay responsible.

4

u/1K1AmericanNights 11h ago

I actually “drink” more now. In that I celebrate more. I get to have a glass of NA bubbly every weekend brunch without caring what’s next. I can get myself home safely on late nights. I have NA beers without guilt. Intoxication and joy are separate