Newbie Here *waves* Hi, I'm completely brand new here but am eager to get myself involved. Any random advice you might have to impart on a newcomer seeking to get better connected here, feel free. c: My drinking has always been borderline problematic and I have been using & abusing alcohol on/off since I was 16 (so about seven years at this point). I think I was aware that a lot of the problems I have had to face were usually a result of my drinking (relationship issues, infidelity, health problems, etc.). However, the blackouts are the most frightening problem, the thing which made me realize that I need to actually take action here. My blackouts started only a year ago and have since evolved from a random occurrence to basically a biweekly thing. For whatever reason, I can't stop once I've started and I almost always drink myself to a blackout once I get started. My life now feels totally out of control and I don't know how to regain that control anymore. I look in the mirror and it seems that I don't know the person looking back at me. I made three very deliberate attempts to quit drinking over the past couple months. My most recent quit lasted a week but I caved into temptation & went on a two day binge. Woke up this morning to the realization that I need to take a more aggressive approach, try to get connected somehow. So I went to an AA meeting earlier tonight. But, after getting all the way there, I chickened out. I have been to AA once before but I never really got connected and haven't been sure a 12 step program with such a religious slant would be right for me. Anyways, not sure if my little spiel resonates with anyone who has been there or is still in a similar position, but I would love to hear any thoughts about what's worked for you or other ideas. Thanks! c: |
AA just involves a Higher Power-it can be the group itself or anything you define as such. Super Ego if you like. Alcohol can be your Id. (Sigmund Freud) I was terrified to walk into an AA meeting but I guess I was more frightened by continuing my drinking. Turned out it was a great group. I've been to 2 others that weren't. If there are several groups in your area try going to all of them. You'll probably find one you like. Otherwise try going at different times-they will have different people present. |
Welcome aboard whiimsy :) SR helped me stay sober - there's a lot of advice support and experience here. I know change is daunting but myadvice is do whatever it takes to change things around - its worth it :) D |
Welcome Whiimsy. You'll find lots of support here. We have all been there at one time or another. Again, Welcome and make yourself at home. DD |
Welcome Whiimsy! I'm kind of new myself, just a few days into my second attempt. There are lots of encouraging people here and many useful resources and experiences to glean from. Although it is still early for me, I feel a lot different this time around because like you I am reaching out for help more actively - on this site and with professional help. Please stick around because it can only help you stay on track with sobriety. |
Welcome and don't let the religious slant bother ya. Choose a higher power of your own understanding Step Two says came to believe not that you must. My high power in the beginning was a good bye letter to my drugs of choice as I pulled it out and read it every time I wanted to use. My higher power which I choose to call MOFO is as messed up as I am for this to work. A simple please keep me sober spoke often but I have to choose to own my sobriety or let my addiction own me. Get to a meeting get a sponsor and work the steps is my suggestion for that is what work for me. It is worth it and so are YOU!! |
Welcome to SR, Whiimsy. |
Welcome - I'm only on day 7 so understand where you are at! This forum is awesome :) good luck with your decision to quit |
Welcome to the family. I'm glad you joined us. :) |
Welcome Whimsy |
Welcome Whiimsy. I know a lot of people here can relate with your experience with alcohol. This is a great place for support when you need it. Ultimately, only you can make the decision to get sober, but we are all here for you! |
Welcome to the Forum Whiimsy!! :wave: |
Welcome! |
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