Is it time to reduce or stop your drinking? by Sarah Michael Novia

In today’s fast-paced world, many women find themselves juggling multiple roles and responsibilities, neglecting their own well-being in the process. Alcohol is often used as a poor coping skill, like pouring a glass of wine at the end of a long work day, that sometimes (or always) turns into the whole bottle.

We are not judging how you've managed your life so far. But If you are feeling overwhelmed by hangovers, exhaustion, or blackouts, we can help. Aja Collective takes a two-prong approach to alcohol, by asking if you'd like to reduce or eliminate your drinking and helping you self-determine if you are a better fit for TSM or AA.

Pretty much everyone knows about AA, and if a 12-step program works for you, we are big fans. It's a complete abstinence program with meetings and fellowship for support. If this is the path you feel you need to take, we can connect you to a wonderful Sober Coach, Robbi Walberg, who is here to help.

Robbi writes, "Having had a spiritual awakening as a result of working the 12 steps, I invite you to find out for yourself. The 12 steps are a guide and tool kit for living. They are a way of life. They can be utilized however you need them. I see them as a jumping off place to begin to uncover, discover, and discard. Doing the 12 steps is undeniably worth it." 

If this resonates with you, you can reach out to Robbi directly on our RESOURCES page.

For others, complete abstinence is out of the question. You might not be ready to stop drinking. You may have tried and failed. Maybe you just want to cut back a little.

The Sinclair Method (TSM) gives you the precise boost you need. Unlike Antabuse, it does not make you sick when you drink (although some report a slight nauseousness in the beginning, usually If you haven't eaten). You take one Naltrexone pill an hour before you start drinking. You still get drunk, but the part of your brain that wants MORE, MORE, MORE, is gently blocked. So after a few drinks, you can call it a night. The most important aspect here is consistency - it can't work if you don't take it.

Your doctor can prescribe Naltrexone, and we have a great relationship with the wonderful coaches over at The C Three Foundation (see RESOURCES), which also provides a wealth of resources for reducing your alcohol intake.

Once you've got your alcohol intake under control, we recommend you start (or continue) therapy to address the issues that may have contributed to your drinking in the first place. You have to be present and sober to do the work, and we want you to be able to show up as your very best self.

Whichever you choose, we are here to guide you. If you’re a woman looking to elevate your well-being and embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing, Aja Collective is here to provide you with options every step of the way.