--- title: Managing Alcohol Use | MindBeacon description: MindBeacon offers Canadians a wide spectrum of digital mental health support. --- Your browser does not support HTML5 video. Please upload supported video file type (webm / mp4 / ogg) ## Looking to change your relationship with alcohol? **We can help**. [![Start today](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/3927801/3239a31b-511b-4575-bf48-f9d567dcda40.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/3927801/3239a31b-511b-4575-bf48-f9d567dcda40) ### Feeling more in control. Better mood. More energy.    Changing your relationship with alcohol doesn't just mean cutting back. It can also mean changing what, when, why, and how you drink, in a way that benefits you. It can have positive effects on the way you feel – both mentally and physically.   ## Research shows that cutting down or cutting out alcohol can lead to positive effects like:   ![mindbeacon-cell-3](https://www.mindbeacon.com/hubfs/Services/mindbeacon-cell-3.png "mindbeacon-cell-3") • Better Mood  • Deeper sleep  • More energy  • Better concentration  • Better long-term physical health [![Start today](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/3927801/accd55b3-385c-44c8-b35b-ea5870709bf1.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/3927801/accd55b3-385c-44c8-b35b-ea5870709bf1) ## Developed in consultation with experts at The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH),  MindBeacon’s Managing Alcohol Use Program uses the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and a harm reduction approach to manage alcohol consumption and develop strategies to cope with cravings.  ## How the program works ## Tell us about yourself Fill out a detailed assessment so we can better understand you. It’s as in-depth as a traditional first session, so set aside at least 30 to 60 minutes to complete it.  [![Start today](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/3927801/e7e985ec-4bf1-42e4-a94a-810e4c67b0dd.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/3927801/e7e985ec-4bf1-42e4-a94a-810e4c67b0dd) ![guided-howitworks-1](https://www.mindbeacon.com/hubfs/Services/Guided/guided-howitworks-1.png) ## Get matched with your therapist You’ll be matched with a therapist who is best suited to support you. If our program is not a suitable treatment for your current needs, we’ll recommend alternate supports.  [![Start today](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/3927801/e7e985ec-4bf1-42e4-a94a-810e4c67b0dd.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/3927801/e7e985ec-4bf1-42e4-a94a-810e4c67b0dd) ![howitworks-therapist](https://www.mindbeacon.com/hubfs/Services/Guided/howitworks-therapist.png) ## Your therapist develops a program just for you As your therapist works with you, they’ll ask questions, suggest readings and exercises and personally guide you through each week of the program.  [![Start today](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/3927801/e7e985ec-4bf1-42e4-a94a-810e4c67b0dd.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/3927801/e7e985ec-4bf1-42e4-a94a-810e4c67b0dd) ![guided-howitworks-2](https://www.mindbeacon.com/hubfs/Services/Guided/guided-howitworks-2.png) ## Weekly check-ins and progress After each week you’ll reflect on what you’ve learned and how you’re feeling. Your therapist may also adjust your program by drawing from our full content library.  [![Start today](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/3927801/e7e985ec-4bf1-42e4-a94a-810e4c67b0dd.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/3927801/e7e985ec-4bf1-42e4-a94a-810e4c67b0dd) ![how-it-works-messages](https://www.mindbeacon.com/hubfs/Services/Messaging/how-it-works-messages.png) ## Completing the program Once you’ve reached your goals your therapist will “graduate” you from your program.  [![Start today](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/3927801/e7e985ec-4bf1-42e4-a94a-810e4c67b0dd.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/3927801/e7e985ec-4bf1-42e4-a94a-810e4c67b0dd) ![guided-howitworks-5](https://www.mindbeacon.com/hubfs/Services/Guided/guided-howitworks-5.png) ## Is a Guided CBT Program the right therapy for me? - Participate when and where it suits you - Improve your resiliency by learning new skills - Rigorous clinical trials prove CBT’s effectiveness Do you want to take an active role in your therapy? Do you enjoy doing “homework” – things like readings and exercises that help you learn skills to improve your resilience and how you cope? If so, then CBT may be a great fit for you.  Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a time-limited, problem-focused, and goal-oriented form of therapy. It focuses on how the way we think about things affects our feelings and behaviours. CBT helps you learn how to change negative cycles of thoughts and behaviours so you can function better and improve the quality of your life. Rigorous clinical trials have proven CBT’s effectiveness over a number of decades.   And our Guided CBT program is delivered 100% online – through your laptop, phone or tablet. So you can participate when and where you want. There are no appointments to keep – our Guided CBT Program works on your schedule!  [![video-thumb](https://www.mindbeacon.com/hubfs/Services/video-thumb.png) ](https://www.mindbeacon.com/managing-alcohol-use#) ## What people are saying about MindBeacon Our clients rated our Live Session therapists 4.8/5 ![](https://www.mindbeacon.com/hubfs/4-8-stars.svg) I wouldn’t be where I am today without this program. Traditional therapy approaches weren’t constant enough for me to work towards change. MindBeacon made me feel safe knowing I have my therapist and the tools right at my fingertips.  I found the flexibility most appealing as I didn’t have to sacrifice taking time off from work for therapy. Messaging and going through the exercises with someone to guide me made it successful.  My therapist has been so supportive, and I appreciate her time and thoughts.  I’m looking forward to learning more and feeling better about things. I've really gained more confidence in my abilities to tackle different solutions. And my therapist has given me motivation and positive reinforcement along the way. It’s all having a positive impact on me. Even if I suffered a setback my therapist helped identify different things I could do when I felt distressed. I also really appreciated how they gave me ideas for when I felt triggered by something. Thank you for providing this lifeline to me – it’s helped in ways I didn't expect. That includes feeling like I’m functioning well in my everyday life despite my physical limitations. I've learned so much and felt my therapist supported me the whole way. I’m very thankful to have been paired with her. Due to confidentiality we don't share MindBeacon client identities | Benefits Coverage? | Benefits Coverage? Covered by most Canadian benefit plans See how easy reimbursement is | | --- | --- | | Price* | ### Price* $50 one-time assessment 2 payments of $150, and a final payment of $175 for the Program Includes unlimited messaging ** ** | | Suggested Frequency | ### Suggested Frequency Most people complete the program within 6-8 weeks and many continue messaging with their therapist for up to 12 weeks. | | Cancel at any time?* | Cancel at any time?* | | Eligibility | ### Eligibility Check your eligibility ##### Our Guided CBT Programs are proven effective in treating many conditions. If you’re experiencing any of the following, there’s a good chance our Guided Programs may be able to help: - Chronic pain - Depression - Generalized anxiety - Health anxiety - Insomnia and other sleep issues - Managing alcohol use - Panic - Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD) - Social anxiety - Stress management ##### Guided Programs are available to those 16 years of age or older ##### However, Guided Programs are NOT for everyone If you’re experiencing any of the following, then Guided Programs are likely not right for you. Our Live Sessions are likely a better option for you. - Alcohol or substance use that in interferes with daily activities - Serious thoughts of suicide or self-harm - Eating issues that affect your physical well-being - Relationship issues that require couples support - Issues tied to bipolar concerns - OCD concerns ##### Our programs are provided in English and French You will need to be comfortable with technology and have the ability to type on either a keyboard or smart phone. | [![Get Started](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/3927801/10875939-906b-4f51-87ee-b308c980bcc1.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/3927801/10875939-906b-4f51-87ee-b308c980bcc1) ## What Questions do you have? #### Is there a safe level of drinking? While consuming alcohol is never particularly “safe”, governments establish guidelines around “safe drinking.” These guidelines refer to levels of consumption that minimize risks to your long-term health and other alcohol-related harms.   According to Canada’s Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines:  - Women should limit alcohol to no more than 10 drinks per week, with no more than 2 drinks a day most days  - Men should limit alcohol to no more than 15 drinks per week, with no more than 3 drinks a day most days  #### How does alcohol affect stress, anxiety and depression? Alcohol is sometimes consumed as a coping mechanism for stress, anxiety, or depression. While it may provide a sense of relief in the short term, it can negatively affect your mental health in the long run. Increased alcohol consumption leads to greater tolerance, which means that over time it takes more alcohol to achieve the same effect. And alcohol is a depressant, which means that increased use tends to make anxiety and depression worse over time.   #### Who can the Managing Alcohol Use Guided CBT Program help? This program is for individuals looking to change their relationship with alcohol. This includes individuals who regularly consume alcohol above the amounts recommended by Canada’s Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines. This program is not for individuals for whom  alcohol use interferes with daily activities or who have a physical dependence on alcohol, which would require the support of a physician or other medical expert.  #### How does a therapist help me through your program? You get your own therapist, who will be dedicated to you throughout your care, and who will tailor your program from start to finish. MindBeacon therapists are registered mental health professionals who are experienced in providing CBT treatment online.   Your therapist will tailor a course of therapy based on your unique needs, selecting readings and activities that will help you develop new skills. As you work through the activities, your therapist will review your progress, provide encouragement and advice, as well as new perspectives to consider. You interact with your therapist via secure messaging through the MindBeacon digital therapy platform, and they will always respond within two business days.   #### What happens if I experience a relapse? Changing your relationship with alcohol can take time and hard work. For many, particularly during the first year of reducing alcohol consumption, challenges can arise that lead to a lapse (temporary setback) or a relapse (full return to previous drinking patterns). In either case, it is important to recognize triggers, cope with the emotional impact, and plan to get back on track. The skills taught in MindBeacon’s Managing Alcohol Use program can be used in cases of lapses and relapse.