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gravity · 06-19-2008, 07:10 PM

Welcome Kristina!

Wow, can I ever identify with your post. I was also a binge drinker (similar drinking pattern) who finally had enough (no more denial).

I went to my first AA meeting six months ago and have been sober ever since. Prior to my first meeting, I did experience huge anxiety but it really did lessen with each meeting I attended (completely comfortable after about 10 meetings).

I was also ashamed that I could not control my drinking. But I balanced the initial shame I felt about attending an AA meeting against continuing to try (and failing) to “control it” on my own. There was such a huge price to pay for drinking. I had to quit. I eventually realized that my inability to control alcohol is nothing to be ashamed of – it’s a physical condition.

I did run into people I know at AA meetings. At first, it was a bit uncomfortable but they have turned into a big part of my support network. We have become friends.

As far as disappointing people, those who love me are genuinely relieved that I am getting help (I found this out after). They knew I was struggling (I wasn’t hiding it as well as I thought) and they were very worried about me. In any case, it is your sobriety, your life. The only people who will be disappointed are those who don’t understand alcoholism or want you to keep drinking.

AA is an incredible community and program. Six months ago, I totally hated myself and I was so frightened of the future. Today, my sobriety is strong and I am experiencing significant personal growth. I accept who I am and I feel good about life. I have an incredible support network including new friends. And it all started by reaching out to AA for help.

06-19-2008, 07:10 PM	#5 (permalink)
gravity where the light is Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Ontario, Canada Posts: 2,709	Welcome Kristina! Wow, can I ever identify with your post. I was also a binge drinker (similar drinking pattern) who finally had enough (no more denial). I went to my first AA meeting six months ago and have been sober ever since. Prior to my first meeting, I did experience huge anxiety but it really did lessen with each meeting I attended (completely comfortable after about 10 meetings). I was also ashamed that I could not control my drinking. But I balanced the initial shame I felt about attending an AA meeting against continuing to try (and failing) to “control it” on my own. There was such a huge price to pay for drinking. I had to quit. I eventually realized that my inability to control alcohol is nothing to be ashamed of – it’s a physical condition. I did run into people I know at AA meetings. At first, it was a bit uncomfortable but they have turned into a big part of my support network. We have become friends. As far as disappointing people, those who love me are genuinely relieved that I am getting help (I found this out after). They knew I was struggling (I wasn’t hiding it as well as I thought) and they were very worried about me. In any case, it is your sobriety, your life. The only people who will be disappointed are those who don’t understand alcoholism or want you to keep drinking. AA is an incredible community and program. Six months ago, I totally hated myself and I was so frightened of the future. Today, my sobriety is strong and I am experiencing significant personal growth. I accept who I am and I feel good about life. I have an incredible support network including new friends. And it all started by reaching out to AA for help.