My First Post
 

Greetings all. Today I joined SR and this is my first post. I've just spent some time looking around and feel like I am in the right place for support with my recovery. I have seen many stories similar to mine and the steps and successes that people are taking and making are very encouraging. I've been hiding behind alcohol for far too long, letting it be my default decision maker. Now I have decided that I need to get back in charge and make proactive decisions and not let the world slide by while I sit back in an alcoholic daze. I've never tried giving up before - I'm not keen on AA meetings; as an introvert I am fearful of putting myself out there, however if you have any tips, tricks, books, or websites that you would recommend for a first (hopefully only) timer would be much appreciated. Peace :)

Hi and welcome Hell :)

This is a great place for support and ideas :)

D

Welcome, Hell66!

There are alternatives to AA but a number of us end up biting the bullet and going anyway because the camaraderie can be a big help in staying sober. Each of us decides for themselves what resources we need.

I'm an introvert too and for that and other reasons, AA was not for me. I used this site as my main tool in gaining strength during my early attempts (and you can see I still come back as this community is amazing in many ways for new and veteran sober folks!).

For some reason, reading memoirs of alcoholics helped me a lot too. I'm a reader and am moved by stories of people who share the same struggles as myself. It also helps me realize that things are not going to get better but only decline if the drinking had continued.

Once it 'stuck' my psychological, emotional, and physical health improved dramatically. I sometimes can't believe this is my life. I think we're stronger than we give ourselves credit for when we are in the throes of a long pattern of drinking dependency.

Good luck and keep coming back!

Welcome Hell66 - you've found a friendly place, where people truly understand what you're going through. I felt much calmer once I came here and realized I wasn't unique. Prior to finding SR I had felt all alone. We're glad you found us. )

Welcome Hell. Nice to meet you. :)

Your post was really helpful. I too am a reader so will search out some local memoirs to check out at the local library. Thank you so much.

Good to see you here . This site helps me more than anything in the world .
AA is a wonderful fellowship which many would not do without ,it has saved their life's and continues to do so . You don't have to speak if you don't want to as you will be made welcome either way .

Welcome to the best decision you ever made!

Here are some titles:

Drinking: A Love Story - Caroline Knapp
Blackout - Sarah Hepola
Lit - Mary Karr
Parched - Heather King
Dry - Augusten Burroughs
Last Call - Nancy Carr
Saturation - Jennifer Place

Welcome to SR, Hell!

AA has room for all kinds of people, including introverts like me, but there are also all kinds of other ways to stay sober. You just need to find what works best for you.

Stick around here and you'll get a lot of support and information to help you.

Welcome Hell you find a ton of support & great advice here

Welcome to the Forum Hell!! :wave: