I started drinking 'acoholicly' around 35 and started quitting when I was 40. off/on/off/on and went full stop around 41. I was a bit concerned about what damage I had done,but the main reason behind my quitting was my happiness. I was wrapped up in a miserable existense. I wasn't broke or living on the streets,but I was truely unhappy with my life. Now I'm a bit over 16mo and am starting to be happy again. Even sitting at home alone watching tv..I'm at peace and content.