Setting a specific date to make a change is an important step in managing drug or alcohol use.
It sounds pretty simple and in a way it is. Some young people find it really useful to set a specific date to start trying to cut down.

You want to give yourself the best chance to meet your own goal so think about things such as:

  • Are there particular anniversaries or dates that are going to be harder than others to start?
  • Are there times of the week that are more significant to plan around-Pay day etc.
  • Is there a time when it will naturally be harder to use as much (and easier to achieve my goal) such as I’m going away, I am round non-using people more etc.
Are there times of the week that are more significant to plan around?

Once you’ve set a date write it down and (if you’re comfortable) tell any supporters you have. Be really careful in the lead up to that date. Some young people use way more than they normally would just before quitting or making changes to use up whatever they have left. Remember to stay as safe as you can and if there is even a way you could use a little less in the lead up to the date you’ve chosen, it will probably make things easier!