The internet is filled with resources to learn about alcoholism, and there are probably plenty of local resources at places like your library, your local government, and more.
Here’s a quick list of some places you can go for trustworthy information to learn more about alcoholism, problem drinking, addiction, and more.
5. Your Local Library
If you’re looking for books about quitting alcohol, addiction, and other related topics – or even just to read about other people’s experience and how they overcame – then your local library is a really good place to start.
When it comes to things like looking up a recipe or some quick information, internet search has all but destroyed libraries, but when you’re looking for a serious and solid source of information, and for something more in-depth than a few articles on the web, then the library is the perfect place.
4. Local Government Resources
Take a look at your city’s resources. Visit the website of your city or state and you should be able to find information, or search something like “addiction resources” and then the name of your city and look for the official website to ensure that you’re finding the best sources.
There are also probably places you can visit locally for more information, it’s just a matter of tracking them down. Sometimes, they’ll advertise in the places where the addiction takes place, for example a program to help people with a gambling addiction will probably advertise at a casino, or local support for alcoholism might have posters or pamphlets at a liquor store.
3. National Websites
Countries have websites to help their citizens who are struggling with addiction, but these websites can be very useful, even if you aren’t from that country.
In the UK, you can visit the NHS website for alcohol support. If you live somewhere else, that’s okay, they still have a lot of helpful information.
Here’s the website for Canada, too.
In the United States, you can visit the NIAAA to learn more about substance abuse and alcoholism.
2. Media
You can find videos on YouTube where people share their experiences with alcohol and overcoming it. Keep in mind these are just anecdotes, but sometimes it’s helpful to find someone you can relate to and to see how they moved forward.
There are also a lot of documentaries about drinking that could be interesting, helpful, and sometimes even life-changing.
1. Meetings & Support Groups
Going to a meeting with other people who struggle with addiction can be one of the best resources. Having a sense of community and knowing there are familiar faces who are cheering for you and using you as inspiration just like you’ll be rooting for them can be very powerful.
Another type of ‘meeting’ you can use to get help is to speak to your family doctor by setting up an appointment and telling him you’re struggling with alcoholism and planning to stop drinking. Your doctor can help to determine if it’s safe to do this or if you need medical supervision for your initial detox.
