Pooja Bhatt completes 8 years of sobriety; ‘Gratitude. Gravitas. Grace’; ways to overcome alcohol addiction

During Bigg Boss OTT Season 2, Bhatt opened up about her journey of overcoming alcoholism at the age of 44. “I had a drinking problem, and that’s why I acknowledged my addiction and made the decision to quit,” she shared.

Bhatt added, “Society gives a license to men, and thus they can openly speak about being addicted and recovering from alcoholism. However, women don’t openly drink, and so they don’t openly recover. I used to drink openly, so when I thought of recovering from alcoholism, I realised that why should I recover in the closet? “People used to call me an alcoholic, but then I said I’m a recovering alcoholic.”

Previously, she shared in an interview with Mumbai Mirror, “I was born to a man who has never done anything in half-measure, and I inherited that. So when I drank, I drank copiously. Your appetite increases even as the alcohol does terrible things to your body, clutters your mind and colours your judgement of the people you’re hanging out with.”

Rehabilitation after alcohol addiction is possible (Source: Freepik)

Taking a leaf out of Pooja Bhatt’s diary, let’s understand why battling alcohol addiction is necessary and what you can do, especially as a woman.

 

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Here are some tips from consultant neurologist Dr Sudhir Kumar, Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, to overcome alcohol use disorder/alcohol dependence.

*Have the desire, willpower, and motivation to stop alcohol.

*Try to find the reasons that made you drink alcohol regularly. For example, job-related stress, financial issues, relationship issues, etc.

*Discuss with a doctor about your alcohol use disorder and your plans of quitting.

*Gradually reduce rather than abruptly as it can result in withdrawal symptoms, which could include agitation, restlessness and even seizures.

*Consult a psychologist, as behavioural therapy and counselling are very helpful. Dr Aniket Mule, consultant internal medicine, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road also noted that connecting with other women through support groups who are going through similar situations gives a better perspective and helps one give up alcohol,” said Dr Mule.

*Consult a psychiatrist. “In some cases, medications are needed during the alcohol de-addiction process. Naltrexone blocks the good feelings that drinking alcohol causes, and it may reduce the urge to drink. On the other hand, drugs like disulfiram may make you feel sick after drinking alcohol,” said Dr Kumar.

*Develop and engage in hobbies that you enjoy.

*Nurture good friendships and relationships, which can fill you with positivity.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.