Is Moderation Actually Possible? | The Current

Welcome back to The Current, your source for the latest news, perspective and resources from Oar Health.

The Oar Perspective: Is Moderation Actually Possible?

Most Oar Health members join with the goal of cutting back on how much they drink rather than quitting alcohol entirely. It raises the question: is it possible to take back control over alcohol without going fully sober? We believe that the answer is yes. 

We support members pursuing moderation as well as sobriety for three reasons: we believe in every member’s right to define their own goals, we understand that the harms from alcohol have a direct relationship with quantity consumed — meaning that any significant reduction in drinking is likely to yield improvements in health and wellbeing, and we don’t want an insistence on abstinence to deter anyone from seeking treatment.

Recently, Melissa, one of our members talked about her moderation journey. You can watch on TikTok.

Resource Of The Month: Shareapy

Shareapy offers live, facilitated-led conversations where you can talk things out, hear others and stay connected to your progress — without pressure, labels or rigid frameworks.

For people changing their relationship with alcohol, it can be powerful to have a place to come share or just listen. For those taking medication to help with drinking less or quitting, it can be a powerful complement: while medication supports the body, Shareapy can support how you think, feel and show up every day.

To learn more or join Shareapy, click here.

Oar Member Story: A Profound Difference

“My experience with Oar Health has been transformative.

Although I was initially skeptical about starting naltrexone, especially after trying many other methods to reduce my drinking, the results were extraordinary. Within a month, my daily cravings had faded, giving me a sense of freedom I hadn’t felt in years.

I still enjoy wine occasionally, but never more than a glass. Oar Health has made a profound difference, and I’m deeply grateful.”

Trustpilot Review, April 15th, 2026

AUD In The News

One In 10 US Adults Face A Double Threat: Heavy Drinking And Obesity | UPMC 

“Heavy alcohol use and obesity are both rising in the U.S. and, increasingly, they affect the same people.”

Reconsidering The Word Alcoholic | The Harvard Gazette

“Historically, there was this idea that once you cross a certain threshold, once you’re ‘an alcoholic’” abstinence is the only option. But the data just doesn’t support that. There are many different paths.”

Why Cutting Down Still Counts | Naltrexone Alliance

“Reducing drinking isn’t failure. … That’s a really good example of harm reduction.”

Who Can Succeed With Moderate Drinking? | Moderation Management

“For decades, alcohol problems have been framed in all-or-nothing terms: either you have a serious problem and must stop completely, or you don’t have a problem at all. But many people don’t fit neatly into either category.”