lleaves

I am noticing some of the things that I do differently lately . On days off I am no longer making excuses not to see family, friends . It used to be I was so hung over that I hid not taking calls ,not going out because I was embarrased of the way I felt, looked and smelled .
Now I make it a point to reach out to the ones I care about and appreciate the time I get with them . We still have good and bad times but I am more positive about it all .

sampar

Isint it great when u start seeing & feeling the changes in your self, Welcome to Recovery

least

I used to isolate a lot too. Was always too drunk or too sick to want to do anything or see anyone. My life has opened up so much from what it was ten months ago.

Lilly03

I've been scared that when I'm sober I'll still isolate myself...but so far I've wanted to get out and see people more. And when people call me I actually want to answer the phone.

Anna

When I stopped drinking, I had completely isolated myself from friends.

It's wonderful when the obsessive thoughts leave.

Hevyn

So true! I remember avoiding doctor, or other appointments, on Mondays - since I already pre-planned to be hungover. Insanity! Glad you're feeling positive.

cat1961

Ahh yes, the isolation is a pre-requisite to alcoholism. I was hiding out from anyone and everyone because I was a closet drinker. I'd avoid answering the phone because I was to busy drinking. And forget about seeing me in person unless you were the cashier at the carry out.

Since I haven't been drinking I've been so much more social and go out of my way to interact with people.... just the way it should be!

sobermax

I hear this! My whole drinking demeanour keeps people away.
Dread picking up the phone, opening post, being around people - it wants us on our own, that's for sure.

Anrkist

Likewise... I'd stopped seeing people because I knew there wouldn't be any alcohol involved.

"I don't feel up to it." "Maybe next weekend..."

loveon2legs

I can relate oh so well.....makes me shudder thinking about it.....My world is a heck of alot better now!! I agree, alcoholism likes us on our own....when I watch programs or hear people say that alcohol is their best friend....makes me so very sad... because it's so far from the truth.... alcoholism is a very lonely and sad place to be..the darkest of places...one by the grace of God won't ever be again.....

Carrie36

Im early in sobriety and still find myself isolating. I am especially avoiding those who I used to drink with. Unfortunatly while drinking I seemed to surround myself with mostly people who drank as well.

I think the only way right now to deal with staying sober is by avoidance of these people and situations.

I just dont feel strong enough yet, and dont want to test myself, so i avoid.

I dont know if thats a good approch or not but im sober 38 days and am grateful for it.

CarolD

Anrkist...
Welcome to SR

Kmber2010

What a good post. Allowed me to reflect on my past as well.

I was quite the hermit and like many of you - Cancelled plans/appts, opted to stay home and drink rather then go out, dreaded answering phones, reading emails, etc.

When I drank I was quite paranoid and antisocial to say the least.

Glad those days are over and I no longer am creating chaos in my life.

Thx for the share guys!

LaFemme

Carrie...I think avoiding drinking buddies is a good plan:-)

sazza

I'm not ready yet for the social scene, 60+ days, but hope to be soon.

When I was drinking I avoided friends and familiy so that I could stay at home and get drunk. I never went anywhere in the mornings as I knew i would be hungover.

Avoided meals out and social nights as I didn't like getting drunk in public(made a fool of myself on several occasions and decided to do it in the privacy of my home......) and felt it was cutting into my drinking time at home.

I dreaded checking my phone the next morning, god only knew what or who I had spoken to/texted.

Oh i really don't miss any of that.

Am enjoying my family and friends alot more now, which is a huge bonus.

SSIL75

I still feel vaguely shocked when my doorbell rings unexpectedly and I just go to answer it. No check around for wine glasses. No peeking out the window first. It's awesome.