IrishRaine

Hi Folks,

Today I decided I need to do something about my drinking. I have known I have been an alcoholic for about 10 years. Runs in the family. Do not want to reach that rock bottom point.

Problem is, I like how I feel when I drink. I have no idea how it feels to not drink, over the past 15 years or so. I have not fallen asleep at night without the aid of alcohol in I don't know how long.

I realize my drinking is affecting my life and those in my life. I'm not sure I can just go cold turkey. I am not sure where to start. Is there anything I can take to help with the withdrawal? I'm scared. I know I need to do this.

Thanks for listening.
IrishRaine

huntingtontx

Hi Irish. Welcome to SR. I think the first thing you should do is see a Doctor about stopping safely.. A Dr. has things to help with withdrawal. You have made a big step just coming here. I am glad to meet you.

thomas11

hi IrishRaine, there are factors that go into whether or not you could detox on your own. I would certainly consult with a physician if you are concerned. It will put your mind at ease.

Sasha4

Your fears are only natural.
But they are just fears, nothing else.

I convinced myself for years I could not sleep without a drink.
Turns out I can and I sleep much better.

It takes time for everything to fall into place.
Not drinking takes time to get used to.
It might be a few weeks of broken sleep. It might not. You don't know until you have tried.

I couldn't imagine life without drink.
How would I cope without the warm fuzzy feeling taking the edge off?
However I did and its been 3 years since my last drink.
I could not imagine drinking like I used to now.

Get yourself a day 1, then build on it.
Be open minded.
Remind yourself you are 'choosing' not to drink.
No-one is forcing you to not drink.

I found if I told myself that I could drink whenever I wanted, I just was choosing not to that day, it felt easier.
If something bad happened - and enough bad stuff has happened - I told myself, if anything was still that bad the next day, I could drink then, but just not that day.
I can honestly say, nothing was ever so bad, I ever felt the need to drink.

I kept busy too.
That helped.
I also read all I could here and posted whenever I felt like drinking.

I would not ever change my life today for those old booze soaked days.

I wish you the best xx

Chewy88

Hey man

Join the march thread!

Anna

Yes, do talk to your dr if you're concerned about stopping and he will let you know if it's safe.

Dee74

Hi and welcome IrishRaine

It is scary to consider changing our life but there's a ton of support and understanding here

Read around, see what other people are doing...find ways or approaches that appeal to you.

You can do this

D

Upward2Enlightenment

I agree with what the others have posted. Definitely get a check up and talk with a doctor about quitting and help with withdrawal. Also we all fear change, it is a scary prospect, but it is worth it.

immri

Welcome
i agree with others about seeing your doctor too, you might need to go into a detox or hospital, or they might be able to prescribe something to help - i've experienced both, I certainly couldn't have stopped cold turkey it would have been dangerous.

IrishRaine

Thank you! I am new to this, not sure how it works. Would like to get to know you.

Northlander

Welcome! Just wander around the forums, do some reading, post when you want/need, and consider joining a class thread (people who commit to sobriety during the same month). Glad to have you aboard.

esinger

Didn't know what it was like not to drink my entire adult life until a couple years ago. Not going to say it's easy but the alternative, in the long run, is much harder. Can't give medical advice and don't know the extent of your physical addiction so seeking help from a doctor is probably not a bad idea if your worried.

Good Luck

Upward2Enlightenment

We were all new at one point. Like Northlander suggested, look around and read some posts. If you have any questions, just ask. People here will be happy to help.

Soberwolf

Welcome Irishraine

PurpleKnight

Welcome to the Forum IrishRaine!!

Hevyn

Welcome to a great place, IrishRaine. We all understand, and we care about you. It helps to know we're not alone - the support & friendship here is amazing. I'm so glad you recognize what needs to happen - you can get your life back.

Behan

Hi IrishRaine,

Welcome to SR, nice to meet you.

Everyone's advice on seeing a doctor is a good idea.

Keep checking and posting here - you will find lots of support.

Thats a great question: what will life be like without alcohol. Think of this as the start of a journey of self discovery.

I wish you well.

B