Micaela turned to alcohol during difficult times, including after breast cancer treatment. But by tracking her drinking and making small changes to her habits, she found new ways to cope with stress and find balance.
After children and health issues left her relying on alcohol to relax, Micaela began questioning her drinking habits. She shares how she started to understand her triggers, find healthier ways to cope, and rediscovered a better balance with alcohol.
Micaela’s relationship with alcohol didn’t change overnight. Like many parents, she found that having children altered her routines and priorities, and over time alcohol became something she increasingly turned to during moments of stress or when she needed to switch off at the end of a busy day.
Then, around three years ago, Micaela was diagnosed with breast cancer. Going through treatment had a lasting impact on her wellbeing, and she found herself reaching for alcohol during stressful periods or when she was struggling with body image and confidence.
But last year, something started to change.
Rather than focusing on giving it up completely, Micaela wanted to understand her drinking habits, recognise her triggers, and find alternative ways to relax and unwind.
Now, she’s started running and embracing creative hobbies as a way to relax rather than relying on alcohol.
Tracking her drinking also helped her better understand her relationship with alcohol and the progress she was making.
"I've been tracking my drinking through the app. Once you change your habit, you become more aware of how much you used to drink before.”
For Micaela, it was about awareness, making small but meaningful changes, and proving to herself that there are other ways to cope with life's challenges.
Along the way, Micaela has had open conversations with friends about drinking less. Those conversations have encouraged others to reflect on their own habits too, with some of her friends inspired to cut back on alcohol themselves.
By taking the first step, understanding her relationship with alcohol, and finding new ways to support her wellbeing, Micaela has discovered a better balance that works for her.
By tracking her drinking and recognising her triggers, Micaela gained a better understanding of her habits and the progress she was making. The MyDrinkaware app can help you build awareness, track your drinking and work towards your own goals.
Want to understand more about alcohol or looking to reduce your drinking? We have the resources to help.
