Alcohol can be used for many things, but it is probably most known to enhance social settings. For example, if you're going out to dinner or a sporting event, or attending social gatherings or parties through friends, family or co-workers, it may be no surprise that alcohol is involved.

However, alcohol can be used in negative ways too, such as a coping mechanism to relieve stress or as a way to self-medicate.

Pain comes in all forms and has the ability to be masked behind all types of people. A pain can be physical, emotional or spiritual and can leave you wondering how to cope. It's true that you may handle sadness and pain in a different way than your peers, but if you're trying to self-medicate with alcohol, there are also metabolic and other health issues at play.

Fortunately, you may not have to stop drinking alcohol entirely. The Sinclair Method helps people drink in moderation. If you've noticed (or heard from friends) that you're a mean drunk, this can be caused by sugar in your alcohol of choice. Try switching to vodka and soda and see if this stops. Sometimes, it's all about metabolism.

But, if you're starting to question whether or not you need professional help, chances are you probably do. It's important to understand that only YOU can make this choice to get help if you are fully ready to quit drinking.

If you do in fact need rehab, there are many programs and considerations to keep in mind. There are many 12-step treatment options out there, but some treatment facilities use the Sinclair Method instead. This method is a treatment for alcoholism based on the use of opiate antagonists, naltrexone or nalmefene. This allows you to use these drugs while continuing to drink.

What else do you need to know about alcohol as a self-medicating mechanism and the Sinclair Method?

Jacob Teitelbaum joins Dr. Holly to discuss your relationship with alcohol, as well as if where you can turn if you're at the point where you need help.