Gem010918

I was 2 days away from my 2nd month sobriety before I decided that I could handle a drink at Atlanta airport, waiting for my return flight to Portland. Being in airports is a huge trigger for me. That was on Wednesday March 7.

Before I knew it, I spiralled out of control over next two and half weeks. I cannot even describe how scary and shocking this binge was. I nearly died.

I ended up hospitalized for my anxiety as it skyrocketed through the roof.

Needless to say I'm deeply ashamed and mortified bit this really made me SEE how alcohol is truly dangerous for my mental health.

Today is Day 3. I'm committed to protecting my mental health for GOOD.

Thank God for you guys. X0

Midwest1981

glad you are back! That had to be scary. Forgive yourself and learn from it. great job on day 3! I hope the anxiety is better.

Dee74

I'm really sorry that happened but I'm glad you're back Gem.
Given any thought to what you might do differently this time?

D

Bailey3

Welcome back. It’s surprising how quickly it gets out of control. Find a plan that works for you and if needed tweak it. You can do this.

entropy1964

I'm glad you're ok. Yeah, this addiction thing is progressive. And, at least for me, once I started to realize I was an alcoholic, it seemed to get angrier and more deadly every time I gave in. Like something fighting for its life. I had to take it off the table as an option, ever. Then it quiets down.

I'm in Portland right now btw. Love it so much here!

J50

From everything I've read, once you cross the threshold you can never go back to being a normal drinker. The brain's pathways have been altered and can not be repaired (when it comes to alcohol use).

The good news is that the brain can repair itself, and you can live a normal life, if you abstain and never drink again.

Gabe1980

Well done for coming back Gem, and I hope you start to feel better soon. Love and prayers to you. Gabe x

Tonymblue

Glad you’re back on. Yeah, i know the feeling. Woth drinking it’s one drink then game over.

Snowydelrico

Sounds like the penny has dropped.
Dig your heels in on your decision.
I wish you well.

Gem010918

Thank you for your kind responses.

I definitely will NOT be taking any trips for a long while! Today is Day 6 and I am feeling so much better. I do NOT want to return to that period of darkness and shame.

In a way I am glad it happened because it clearly gave me much more determination not to drink ever again. I want to live, not die figuratively or literally.

milly4me

Gem - thanks so much for sharing. I know this stuff isn't easy to talk about sometimes, but please know what you share is so important for so many of us to hear. It is these stories that helped to keep me from drinking last night. ((hugs to you))) Congrats on Day 6!!!

SoberLeigh

Welcome back, GEM.

Please stay close. We care.

Dropsie

What is it abut airports and airplanes.

Good for coming back.

You can do this, if I can, anyone can.

XX

MindfulMan

My friend Greg from rehab got out on a pass to handle some crucial legal issues that he needed to be present for.

He never made it. Got off the plane, friend picked him up and they went straight to an airport bar. Started a 2 week bender, ended up back in rehab in really bad shape.

Airports trigger a lot of people.