Craving Alcohol Every Day? Here's How I Broke Free Using Neuroscience

Hi everyone, my name is Katie, and I started breaking free from daily alcohol cravings in 2017, thanks a treatment known as the Sinclair Method (TSM). If you’re struggling with craving alcohol every day, I want to share my story because I used to be exactly where you are.

The Constant Battle with Alcohol Cravings

For nearly 10 years, I battled intense cravings for alcohol. I’d wake up promising myself I wouldn’t drink, only to find myself pouring a glass by the afternoon or early evening. The cravings were relentless, and no matter how hard I tried to quit, I’d always end up back at square one. It was a vicious cycle of trying to resist, giving in, and feeling ashamed.

Understanding the Alcohol Deprivation Effect (ADE)

One of the reasons alcohol cravings can be so intense is due to the Alcohol Deprivation Effect (ADE). This phenomenon occurs when abstaining from alcohol, even temporarily, increases cravings. It’s not just about wanting what you can’t have—it’s a neurological response. When alcohol is removed, the brain craves the endorphin and dopamine boosts even more, which can lead to stronger cravings. This was my reality for years.

Check out David's experience with ADE before naltrexone and TSM 👇

How the Sinclair Method Helped Me Stop Craving Alcohol

TSM doesn’t just suppress cravings; it helps rewire your brain’s relationship with alcohol. Using the medication Naltrexone, taken an hour before drinking, TSM works by blocking the endorphin rush alcohol typically provides. Over time, this reduces the brain’s expectation of pleasure from alcohol, naturally lowering cravings and even eliminating them altogether.

Unlike traditional programs that often require complete abstinence from day one, TSM allows you to keep drinking while your brain gradually breaks its dependence on alcohol’s reward. This was a game-changer for me because the pressure to quit cold turkey had always backfired.

My Journey from Craving Alcohol Daily to Freedom

When I started TSM, I noticed a shift almost immediately. Drinking just wasn’t as rewarding as it used to be, and I found I was thinking about drinking less and less. Over the months, my cravings lessened, and I found myself naturally drinking less. Eventually, I reached a point where I was spending most of my time alcohol-free, and I could enjoy a glass of wine and stop there—something I never thought possible.

After a year on this treatment therapy, my desire to drink had all but vanished. Today, the cravings that used to dominate my every thought are a distant memory. I no longer feel the pull toward alcohol that I once did, and it feels genuinely freeing.

Tips for Managing Alcohol Cravings

If you're struggling with alcohol cravings, here are a few practical tips that helped me along my journey, especially once I started naltrexone and TSM:

• Delay the First Drink: If you feel the urge to drink, try waiting 15-30 minutes. Often, cravings will pass if you give them time.
• Stay Busy: Distracting yourself with an activity you enjoy can help take your mind off cravings.
• Practice Self-Compassion: Don’t beat yourself up if you struggle with cravings. It's part of the process, and change takes time.
• Use Naltrexone (If on TSM): Taking your medication consistently as prescribe is a critical step in reducing cravings over time.
• Connect with Support: Whether through online communities, a coach, or a trusted friend, talking about your cravings can help you feel less alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why do I crave alcohol every day? Alcohol cravings are often a result of the brain’s reward system being conditioned to associate alcohol with pleasure. Over time, this can create a cycle of craving and consumption that feels hard to break.

2. How long does it take to reduce alcohol cravings with TSM? Every person's journey is different, but many people start to notice a reduction in cravings within a few weeks to a few months. Consistency with the method is key. For most people using TSM, cravings eventually go away completely over time.

3. Can I still drink while trying to reduce cravings? Yes, with TSM, you can continue to drink while retraining your brain's response to alcohol. The key is to take Naltrexone as prescribed, one hour before drinking.

4. Can I take naltrexone to help with alcohol cravings even if I'm not drinking anymore? Yes, research shows that naltrexone can be an effective anti-craving medication even for those who are no longer drinking. It may help reduce cravings and support long-term sobriety if that is your goal.

You’re Not Alone

If you’re craving alcohol every day, know that you’re not alone. Many of us have been there, and there is hope. Naltrexone and TSM might be the answer you’ve been searching for. I’ve shared many success stories from others who have transformed their relationship with alcohol through TSM. You can find these stories and more information on my YouTube channel and website.

Take the First Step Toward Freedom from Alcohol Cravings

I encourage you to explore naltrexone and TSM further, you can learn more about it here. It could be the key to breaking free from daily alcohol cravings and reclaiming your life. Remember, it’s not just about willpower—it’s about giving your brain the chance to heal and reset.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a healthcare professional for any medical concerns. Do not ignore or delay seeking medical advice based on this content.