Author prefers positive change and harm reduction to the abstinence-only mindset
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A new book challenges the idea that abstinence is the only path to a healthy relationship with alcohol.
“The numbers of those drinking excessively soared during the pandemic,” says Maureen Palmer, the author of You Don’t Have to Quit.
Palmer prefers to “shift the conventional abstinence-only mindset to one that encourages positive change and harm reduction.”
Putting the blame and the onus solely on the person with alcohol use disorder is unreasonable and unachievable. Palmer says, “More than 50 per cent of relationships where one partner struggles with alcohol use end in divorce. That’s a huge cost to families and to society.”
A documentary maker by profession, Palmer set out to interview world experts who have created successful tools, techniques, and resources to help reduce and stop drinking — “tools designed for couples,” says Palmer. “Couples who love one another but face challenges supporting, caring, and communicating.”
Palmer joined for a Conversation That Matters about science-backed strategies based in compassion, empathy, and healthy boundaries that can help your loved one drink less.