When drinking becomes a problem, it usually happens because the person does not know how to cope with whatever internal or external reality is affecting them. When someone drinks to avoid the things they are feeling, memories, voices in their head – whatever it may be- alcohol can make their momentary happiness seem much worse when they sober up and face what was bothering them before.”
It’s important for anyone trying to cut back on drinking to find healthy coping skills instead of relying on chemicals that would likely lead down an even more destructive path. Sometimes just talking about what’s bothersome can do wonders. For some people this will look like seeking professional counseling. But there are plenty of other alternatives too.