suntastic

I have had a roller coaster ride trying to quit, and continue drinking. I am serious this time. Made it 6 days last week, which doesn't really seem so long... but after that 1 day of drinking, I am back on the path to quit again. Day 4 now. Do ya'll have any tips on how to identify triggers? Because, in my experience one minute I am fine, the next minute I am downing a 24ounce beer..... almost like I am not even present when it is happening, only after, and then later when sober again and feeling a heavy burden of guilt. How do I know, and change the things that are triggering me to drink?

chaili05

Hi Suntastic, welcome!!

An important thing to do that I always struggled with is to go back through and write down exactly what happened prior to drinking. It may not be completely evident while we're in the moment, but if you're able to map it out after the fact you might be able to see something subtle that you didn't notice before.

Also, be careful to note that it may not be anything necessarily huge or significant that happens that triggers you. It can be something as much as feeling better about yourself since you have some sobriety under your belt and maybe thinking "oh it's not that bad, i'm fine..." .... almost becoming slightly more lax in thinking of the problem...if that makes sense.

Are you attending any counseling or meetings for support/education?

chaili05

also, congrats on four days and your sobriety last week! It's definitely a struggle in the beginning and you appear to be making a big effort

Skye2

I agree with Chaili - it's very rare that a beer floats across the room all by itself and lands in our hands, so something happened just before you collected it and opened it.
It's about learning what that 'something' is and recognising it in future You'll get there Xx

neferkamichael

Suntastic, 4 days is FANTASTIC, congratulations. Rootin for ya.