For some people, drinking in moderation can be a viable pathway to a healthier life. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), the definition of moderate alcohol use differs for men and women. After a period of moderate drinking, some people end up achieving abstinence anyway. If quitting is your ultimate goal, starting with moderation may help you achieve it. And even if you don’t plan to https://ecosoberhouse.com/ quit, you may find that you lose interest in alcohol after practicing moderation.

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• We can use active awareness to make more informed decisions about our drinking.
• Reach out today with any questions or to schedule a free and confidential 20 minute phone consultation.
• When it comes to recovery, there are arguments for drinking in moderation versus complete abstinence from alcohol.
• Historically, treatment options for moderation have been extremely limited and it’s only in recent years that we have seen an increase in alternative solutions for those who have a mild to moderate alcohol issue.
• It’s paramount that you have a “saying no to drinks” script that’s quick, polite, and convincing.

It’s also advised when someone has substance use disorder involving any other type of drug, as there’s a tendency to simply substitute one chemical for another. Traditionally, most of the alcohol and substance use treatment centers in the United States have focused on abstinence-based approaches, many of which follow a 12-step model. Their guiding philosophy reflects a belief in the disease model of addiction. This states that addiction what is alcoholism is a progressive disease that can only be managed by stopping the use of all substances and maintaining abstinence, full stop. However, because many, if not most people, are not willing to consider quitting entirely, they avoid treatment.

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It is simpler to just give up the substance entirely than to try to manage or regulate it. There is no matter what type of substance abuse treatment or method is used to achieve sobriety. One of the most important factors is doing the right thing; committing to moderation management. A treatment strategy that involves avoiding all substances is the most common moderation management strategy, which leads to a reduction in substance abuse.

• The social aspect of drinking may also be a disadvantage for someone who is abstaining.
• Conversely, if you have tried abstinence but found it too restrictive or unsustainable, moderation may be worth considering.
• This can include thinking about your common patterns and learning styles.
• This is not to say one may not go thorough a period of “day at a time,” or “week at a time,” or even try a “harm reduction” approach.
• In fact, in 2021, according to SAMHSA, only 6% of people with a substance use disorder received any form of treatment.

ACE Studies: Childhood Abuse and Trauma

One example of a harm reduction program is Moderation Management (MM), which offers guidelines and support for those seeking to moderate their alcohol consumption. Through the use of self-help tools, meetings, and online resources, MM encourages individuals to take responsibility for their behavior and develop healthier drinking habits. While moderation may be more achievable for those with a mild or moderate diagnosis than those with severe alcohol use disorder, moderation vs abstinence it’s also a great starting point for those exploring making a change.

Smarmore Castle has the facilities and staff to help you regain control of your life, request a call-back from one of our professionals today. By providing you with a comprehensive understanding of these two approaches, I hope to empower you to take control of your life and find the most suitable path to recovery. A moderate drinker is someone who limits their alcohol consumption, usually adhering to standard guidelines for moderate consumption. Various studies discovered that in certain cultures there is a certain percentage of people with the ability to stop drinking and practice moderation management, but the probability of that being the case is in the extreme range. There is a big difference between moderation and abstinence when it comes to alcohol.

It shouldn’t be a challenge to enjoy a few beers at a barbecue or wind-down cocktails with friends after work. Unfortunately, many factors contribute to alcohol addiction, so some people are simply healthier if they opt not to drink. However, there are other reasons to choose not to consume alcohol, which often helps reduce the stigma of being the only person not partaking. In some cases, a combined approach incorporating elements of both abstinence and moderation may be the most effective path to recovery.