Pomeroy

I had been sober for 7 years...but 2 years ago I drank again, and have been drinking since. I'm scared and I don't know what to do.

suki44883

How did you stop before? Have you tried AA? Getting sober is much easier than staying sober.

24hrsAday

Welcome.. Why Not Drop in on an A.A. Meeting?

Ceres

I second that.

Pomeroy

Yes, I stopped drinking for 7 years. Had a business and was doing well for a while. I have been to AA. It just seems when problems get really bad for months on end....it get the best of me.

Pomeroy

And I'm so embarrassed for everyone else to know.

yeahgr8

Why don't you go to AA, do what they say and get sober this time, give yourself a chance at never having to pick up again?

Oh and welcome btw:-)

suki44883

We're as sick as our secrets. There are much worse things in life than being embarrassed. However, there is a reason it's call Alcoholics Anonymous.

Pomeroy

Suki, The way I stopped before, I just layed in down..and quit. But I'm not sure this time. It may be physical. And I'm scared.

suki44883

You'll never know until you try. Go to your doctor and explain what's going on and be honest with him/her about your drinking. They can help you.

Pomeroy

I haven't been to my doctor in 2 years. Doesn't all this stuff show up on our records, if we tell the doc we have a problem with alcohol?

suki44883

Ever hear of Doctor/Patient Privilege? Is that more important to you than living a sober life? When you are truly ready to stop drinking, you will be willing to do whatever it takes.

Pomeroy

What is Doctor/Patient Privilege! What does that mean?

suki44883

It means that whatever you tell your doctor is confidential between you.

Pomeroy

I hope that's true Suki. But's that not what I've heard. I really appreciate ya'll being here for me tonight. And, yes, I've had enough and I want to quit. Just scary, Shakes & Sweats.

suki44883

Well, I don't know what you've heard, but people hear wrong information all the time. There most definitely is a doctor/patient privilege, just like attorney/client privilege.

The shakes and sweats (along with a lot of other detox symptoms) are why we encourage you to go to the doctor. Alcohol detox can be deadly. It's always best if you can get medical supervision.

suki44883

What is a Doctor-Patient Privilege?

A doctor-patient privilege ensures that as a patient, your medical history, conditions, and related information cannot be divulged without your permission. Patients should be able to tell their doctors private and sensitive information knowing that it will not be made public. Even a doctor's observations and opinions are covered by the doctor-patient privilege.

Pomeroy

I've been looking at that "Hamsters" site. They said some states require a 3-day stay in a hospital.

suki44883

For what? I've never heard of the "Hamsters" site. No one requires anyone to stay in a hospital. If you choose to go to a hospital to detox, that's up to you, but no one is going to force you to stay for any specific length of time. Some people go to the ER, but that doesn't mean you have to be admitted as a patient.

Pomeroy

Thanks Asta 1 and Suki. I may ask my doc before I mention anything.