There are plenty of situations where having a drink is a great way to celebrate an accomplishment. Unfortunately, problems can surface if you use “I deserve it” to justify bored drinking. Hobbies give you goals, and if you especially enjoy them, you’ll be motivated to reach these goals. Without hobbies, it’s more tempting to take the easier route of having a drink. If you have someone you trust, let them know if you are feeling down or lonely – so they know you won’t mind if they check in with you more often. See if there are organisations around you where you could help out, that would love to use your skills and talents.
Check out our roundup of sober-friendly activities in and around Charleston this weekend to get in the spooky spirit. Finding resources for ongoing drinking issues, even when simply drinking out of boredom, can make a world of difference. Catching signs of abuse early also minimizes the risks of adverse health effects and increases the probability of achieving sobriety much more quickly.
Understanding the Link Between Boredom and Drinking
People may turn to alcohol as a way to cope with these negative emotions, but in doing so, they may be putting their mental health at risk. Many scientific studies have proved a positive relationship between boredom/loneliness and excessive alcohol use. AspenRidge Recovery offers online treatment programs that make it possible to receive recovery care while still maintaining a flexible schedule. AspenRidge Recovery methodologies prove to support clients through recovery and long-term care. We can address fear and healthy coping mechanisms to combat any doubt and uncertainty that either an individual or family may feel during these difficult times. It’s important to understand that achieving sobriety is possible.
However, drinking less can reduce inflammation in these organs, improving digestion. In the third week, if hypertension or high blood pressure is an issue, you may notice lower blood pressure. You might find yourself at this point contemplating the broader effects of alcohol, such as its effects on your health, your mental well-being, work, personal relationships, and more. One week into quitting, you may experience better sleep.
Drinking Out of Boredom
That is the activity I’ve buried my energy into since quitting. Choosing a new hobby to occupy your time is not always easy. It may require a bit of soul-searching, especially when your motivation is at historically low levels. But also, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and get involved in activities around your community.
That requires so much mental and emotional energy to keep up with. And at the end of that 30 days, you will know if you can cook a good steak or if you’ll need more practice. There are lots of different strategies for goal-setting.
I’m sober now
Still, alcohol is a highly addictive substance that can lead to dependency, especially when consuming frequently and in large quantities. Drinking out of boredom may indicate a deeper issue at hand. Drinking out of boredom can reinforce negative feelings and self-medicate. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America says that alcohol and other substances can worsen anxiety symptoms. About 20% of Americans with an anxiety or mood disorder such as depression have an alcohol or other substance use disorder. Not drinking is the most important part — I can’t function, in the most general sense, if I’m ass deep in a bottle.
An estimated 15 million people throughout the U.S. struggle with alcohol use disorder, but only 10% receive treatment. Alcoholism profoundly affects the entire body, especially the drinking out of boredom brain, heart, pancreas, mouth, liver, and the immune system. Despite its negative impacts, more Americans than ever consume alcohol regularly, especially women and minorities.