Why We Self-Sabotage With Alcohol
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Self-sabotage and alcohol use can often go hand in hand, especially for those who are trying to quit drinking or are sober-curious. Alcohol is often used as a coping mechanism for difficult emotions, but it can create a vicious cycle of negative emotions and self-sabotage that is difficult to break.
Why we use alcohol to self-sabotage
Alcohol is a depressant, and while it may provide temporary relief from stress and anxiety, it can ultimately exacerbate negative emotions and make them come back even stronger. This can lead to a reliance on alcohol as a coping mechanism, making it even harder to quit drinking.
Self-sabotage can be driven by a variety of factors including:
low self-worth
a sense of powerlessness
fear of change
perfectionism
deep-seated negative beliefs
How to break the cycle of sabotaging your sobriety
Recognizing and challenging these negative thought patterns is an important step in overcoming self-sabotage and quitting drinking.
Becoming more aware of negative self-talk, surrounding yourself with positive and supportive people, and seeking therapy are all helpful tools in breaking the cycle of self-sabotage and alcohol use. It's important to remember that quitting drinking takes time and patience, but it's a worthwhile journey towards a more positive and fulfilling life.
Learn more in episode 144: