4 Reasons The Sinclair Method Doesn't Work

One of the things The Sinclair Method (TSM) is known for is its success rate.

This treatment (when followed correctly, and given enough time to work) has been clinically-proven to have a 78% success rate.

But there are some instances where it doesn't work – or doesn't work as well as it should.

Today I wanted to share 4 common reasons I see for why this method doesn't work –

1. The method is not followed correctly. This might seem obvious – but I can't tell you how many people I meet who start on naltrexone with incorrect guidance – or incomplete guidance – and they waste their time trying the treatment without seeing great results. What's great about TSM is that if the core elements of the protocol are followed correctly, then things can be tweaked to adjust to the individual's needs. This is where expert support comes in so handy!
2. The method is not given enough time to work. Recently one of our members shared on a group coaching call that after they experienced the "honeymoon phase" of TSM, they thought it wasn't working anymore so they gave up. What they didn't know was that this is a fairly normal experience for many people on TSM – ie, they respond really quickly to the medication – but then see their drinking increase again. This is why this method needs time to work, and why we're always talking about the importance of gradual habit and lifestyle changes, alongside naltrexone and TSM.
3. Someone isn't quite ready. This is true for any change we want to make in life: we have to be ready for it. Sometimes people start TSM, but aren't quite ready to change their relationship with alcohol (for example, they still want to get drunk to numb out from the day). When that's the case, often they will drink through naltrexone, or simply quit following the protocol correctly. What's great about TSM is that we can start this treatment where we're at: we don't have to figure everything out all at once. All we have to have is a desire to make this change...and little by little, day by day, we can work to gradually (and gently) modify our behaviors and create a healthier (and safer) relationship with alcohol.
4. Someone doesn't have the proper support. One of our members told me recently that they started on naltrexone planning do the treatment on their own. However, after a bit, they started to feel isolated, unclear and unmotivated (hence why they joined the program). They shared how valuable it was to plug into a program of people who just "get it" – and to be able to connect with others for questions and support. So whether the support you have is in a program like ours, talk therapy, an amazing doctor, your church, your family or any combination of these – don't do this alone. You are worth having a support system by your side...and it will make this journey all the more meaningful.

I hope this helps you understand some of the "pitfalls" that can come with the TSM journey. Remember – time is your ally on TSM. Sustainable change takes time – and – so much can change when we change our relationship with alcohol.

Cheers,

Katie

PS, to access the only program designed to give you private, personalized support and resources for TSM on your own schedule, I invite you to check out The Alcohol Freedom Program! With the program, you'll have everything you need – for as long as you need it – to succeed on TSM.