The Best & Worst Times to Try to Stop Drinking Alcohol

Summer held so much promise for me as a proud drinker of alcoholic beverages.

I loved all the little three-day-weekend type holidays. Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day all meant one thing-unlimited beer and booze consumption disguised as celebration and fully endorsed by social conventions. I could drink all day, and my addiction would hide effortlessly in plain sight.

When I had concerns about my drinking, even when I knew I had a significant problem and had exhausted all attempts at moderation, I would never dream of quitting drinking in the summer. Not only did the warm sun provide the best occasions for overconsumption, but the summer also meant the most consistent exposure to friends and neighbors-other drinkers drinking. I couldn’t possibly manage the shame of being the only guy at the party without a beer in my hand. Unthinkable.

If I was going to quit drinking, the summer wasn’t the right time. So, I kept on suffering my alcohol-induced depression and anxiety for another season.

I couldn’t quit before Halloween. Following my kids around the neighborhood with my travel coffee mug full of beer was one of the highlights of my year. I loved the interaction with neighbors, the occasional refill at the houses…