Alcohol abstinence is always a challenge regardless of whether one is attempting to find methods to abstain from alcohol for a day or for a lifetime.
It is critical that the tapering is gradual so that one does not suffer from withdrawal symptoms at any point of time.
Symptoms associated with withdrawal are potentially life threatening and are best avoided.
Experts are of the opinion that when abrupt withdrawal of alcohol is initiated it is important that it is done under close medical supervision.
This is all the more relevant in instances where someone has been drinking heavily for weeks, months or even years.
It is critical that objectives are determined and one ascertains the predominant reason for consuming alcohol.
If the reason for taking a drink is to relax after work then adopting another relaxation mode can help.
Some of the more popular alternatives to drinking are yoga, relaxation techniques, hot baths or meditation.
One of the more innovative methods is to let the urge pass and not succumb because it is essentially a transitory experience and will pass off even if you do not reach for that drink.
Conversely one could adopt an alternative passion such as painting or playing an instrument.
When the passion competes for the same time slot as alcohol it could help ensure that abstinence is permanent and free from relapses.
Those seeking to quit alcohol would be familiar with relapse for it is far commoner than one would believe.
The good news is that studies indicate that those who abstain for five years or more usually never relapse.
Thus the trick is to ensure that one gets through this magic period without a drink.
When the target is to abstain permanently, it can be intimidating for most people and could well lead to a relapse or even binge drinking.
It is better to set a goal of staying sober for 30 days when you first decide to give up alcohol.
Once you have attained the 30 day target, then the choice is yours as to whether you would like to return to drinking sparingly or extend the period of abstinence.
Setting a goal of one drink a day for women and two a day for men is considered a reasonable and achievable target.
The 'plan' that has been created now needs to be compared with the 'actual'.
This is best ensured by maintaining a diary where actual recordings are made.
While keeping the numbers down can help, the ability to say no is equally vital.
It is of vital importance that one is adept at saying 'no' to a drink when you do not want one.
Those who can walk away from a drink invariably achieve abstinence that much quicker.
Being a social drinker will not suffice because there may be occasions when you may need to attend social gatherings rather frequently.
The methods to abstain from alcohol are numerous and there is usually no one right method.
The preferred option will be a 'cafeteria' approach where you would need to pick and choose the methods which work for you.