stronglikebull

Hi everyone! I have drank alcohol since i was around 10 years old fast forward 17 years here I am. The last 8 or so years it has progressively gotten worse and worse. At first I attempted to quit on my own being the stubborn man that I am. Well that did not work even remotely! So, I checked myself into a detoxification facility for 4 days. Everything was great while I was there since I was being drugged daily. Once I was released they gave no advice or prescriptions I developed a fever, high blood pressure, fainting. So, naturally I went to the ER which they told me I was dehydrated.

OK, a bag of saline solution I felt better. The next day same symptoms happen I call my physician he says "drink plenty of clear fluids and take advil for the fever. So, I did its sort of working at the moment. That's not what this post post is really about though (kind of the back story).

While in the facility I was the only one withdrawing from alcohol! Not too big of a deal for me as I was fighting my own demons not other peoples. I went to my first AA meeting and was surprised to find the same atmosphere as the facility. I suppose I was looking for others who were dealing with the same problems that I've been dealing with. So, my question is are there meeting that have only alcoholics or am I stuck? Sure, I feel bad for them as they have issues as well. Looking for some guidance here?

ScottFromWI

I am not a regular member of AA but i have been to meetings before, they are all different. One thing I would guess is that at the detox facility, many of the folks were there because they had no other choice. "regular" AA meetings have some court ordered participants, but for the most part people are there because they have a need or want to.

Glad to hear you are feeling better and getting medical help, and I do hope you can find a support system to make this time work for you to get and stay sober. Someone is always here on SR too if you need support.

biminiblue

If I'm understanding, you are finding people who are fighting other addictions?

AA is for alcoholics. There are many who are cross-addicted, and many who go to AA who are fighting another substance - but in my experience, the majority are there for alcohol.
There are Nar-Anon meetings for other substances, but there are far and away many more AA meetings. An addiction is an addiction, so maybe try to see the similarities, not the differences.

Welcome to the forums, we're glad you're here.

stronglikebull

While I understand that people have addictions from multiple substances, this is not the case at all. It seems as if NA meetings are all but non-existent in my area. I have a lot of compassion for those with other addictions, I've had my own. So, don't take my post as being anti drug related. Also, I'm very excited to find this community of people who are also struggling with addiction. It is nice to get others opinions and views!

Anna

Hi and Welcome,

I don't use AA, but my suggestion would be to try some different AA meetings and see if you feel more comfortable.

I'm glad you found us and there is lots of support and information here, so keep reading and posting.

stronglikebull

The consular at the facility recommended AA and outpatient treatment. Honestly I think those are for a different personality other than mine. After I left the detoxification facility I went into a casino full of people drinking in order to "tempt" myself(won $60 by the way" yeah I'm a bit hard headed. I do however want to give it a try, suppose I'll keep looking, I'm sure there is a small group somewhere.

PurpleKnight

Welcome to the Forum stronglikebull!!

You'll find loads of support here on SR!! Great to have you onboard!!

MIRecovery

When I failed doing it my way enough times I decided it would be a good idea to try the ideas of people who knew what they were doing. If you think I have problems wait till you see my solutions

Soberwolf

Keep reading keep posting it wil help

stronglikebull

I absolutely do not disagree with the experts, after all this is the profession they've chosen. However, we are individuals and as such we are not equal in all regards. Actually, I just now came the realization this forum is more "anonymous" than AA. I believe I will be frequenting here for some time to come. 1 week tomorrow with many more to come! Thank you all for the warm reception.