I Drink Every Night—Am I an Alcoholic? My Experience Gaining Control Over Alcohol

If you drink every night, you might wonder if that makes you an “alcoholic.” This was a question I asked myself many times. I was drinking too much, but I didn’t fit the stereotype of an “alcoholic.” I had responsibilities, relationships, and a life that looked fine on the outside—but I knew my drinking was becoming a problem.

At the same time, the idea of quitting completely felt overwhelming. I didn’t want to give up alcohol forever, but I did want to regain control. If you feel the same way, you’re not alone. Many people wonder where the line is between casual drinking and a drinking problem.

Does Drinking Every Night Mean I Have a Problem?

Drinking every night doesn’t automatically mean you have Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), but it’s worth evaluating your relationship with alcohol. Instead of focusing on labels like "alcoholic," it’s more helpful to consider how drinking affects your life.

Signs You May Be Drinking Too Much

• Drinking more than intended – You set limits but often exceed them.

• Cravings or urges to drink – Alcohol is on your mind frequently.

• Impact on daily life – Drinking is affecting your health, sleep, relationships, or responsibilities.

• Increasing tolerance – You need more alcohol to feel the same effects.

• Difficulty cutting back – You’ve tried to drink less but find it challenging.

If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to explore ways to reduce your drinking.

How I Cut Back Without Quitting

I spent years looking for ways to control my drinking. Traditional methods like Alcoholics Anonymous and rehab didn’t feel right for me because they often require complete abstinence. I wanted to moderate, not quit.

That’s when I found the Sinclair Method (TSM)—a science-backed approach that helps people gradually reduce their drinking.

What Is the TSM?

TSM is a treatment that helps people cut back on alcohol using a medication called naltrexone. Here’s how it works:

1. Take naltrexone – You take the medication about an hour before drinking.

2. It blocks endorphins – Alcohol releases “feel-good” chemicals, reinforcing the habit. Naltrexone blocks this reinforcement.

3. Drinking becomes less rewarding – Over time, cravings decrease, and drinking naturally tapers down.

TSM was a game-changer for me. Instead of forcing myself to quit, I was able to rewire my brain’s connection to alcohol. Drinking lost its grip on me, and over time, I found myself drinking less and feeling more in control.

Visit here to learn more about how and why TSM works.

How to Cut Back on Drinking (Without Quitting)

If you drink every night and want to cut back, here are some strategies that helped me:

• Try TSM – It’s a gradual, science-based approach to reducing alcohol consumption. You can get started here.

• Set mindful limits – Start by tracking your drinks and setting small goals.

• Replace drinking habits – Find alternative ways to relax or unwind in the evenings.

• Identify triggers – Notice when and why you drink to help break the cycle.

• Get support – Having a community or guidance can make a huge difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drink every night and not be an alcoholic?

Drinking every night doesn't automatically mean you have a problem, but if drinking is impacting your life negatively, it might be time to evaluate your habits.

What are the warning signs of Alcohol Use Disorder?

Warning signs include drinking more than intended, strong cravings for alcohol, increased tolerance, and difficulty cutting back.

How can I reduce my drinking without quitting alcohol completely?

TSM is a great option, as it helps people reduce their drinking over time without the pressure of quitting cold turkey.

The Bottom Line: You Have Options

Drinking every night doesn’t necessarily mean you have a severe problem, but if you’re questioning your drinking, it’s worth exploring ways to regain control. The good news? You don’t have to quit drinking forever to make a change.

For me, the Sinclair Method was the key to breaking free from nightly drinking without the pressure of quitting cold turkey. If you’re curious about how it works, click here to learn more.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your drinking habits or starting new treatments.