6 months today :)
 

Six months ago I walked into a detox facility and pathetically asked for help. I could barely stand because I was so dehydrated. I couldn't even sign my name on the paperwork because I was shaking. When the intake doctor asked me to walk across the room, and stick out my hands, I fell over. The first day I wasn't even able to get out of bed to make it to meals, so they had to bring the meals to my room. I couldn't stomach food anyway.

The second day was a bit better - I could walk to meals but still shook when using my fork. My heart rate slowed enough so I could sleep. I went to an AA meeting they organized for us. My brain was really foggy, but I listened.

The third day I was almost like a new person. I went to all meals and group activities. I was actually able to read the books I brought with me (I knew I would get bored) without double vision. I finally took a shower and started to see the "old me" again.

Days 4 and 5, I quickly improved. I slept, showered regularly, ate my meals, and read my books. My heart rate and temperature were normal. I slept a lot, but I'm sure that was because of the medication.

I am happy to say I have not had a sip of alcohol since. Sobriety has been difficult at times, but it is the best thing that has ever happened to me. I've grown more in the past 6 months than I have in my entire 30 years on this planet. Thanks to everyone at SR for the support, and the role you have played in helping me stay sober!!

Awesome job! Congratulations on 6 months! Don't look back.

Congratulations! What an inspiring story.

What else has worked for you in staying sober? I'm always interested in hearing from others as I am early in my sobriety, day 16.

Thanks, guys! DL, to answer your question, I changed a LOT of things about my life this time around. This was actually my second time in inpatient detox - obviously the first time did not stick. I moved home for a bit. I don't think moving can necessarily solve a drinking problem, but in my case, I needed to be around family for support. I did an outpatient rehab program, which I will actually be completing this Wednesday. I joined a running club and signed up for some races. I go to meetings several times a week. I do a short meditation every day, and I journal my experience (I haven't shared the journal with anyone - it's just a way for me to express my feelings). I have two dogs, and since I had been a pretty crappy parent while drinking, I try to spend as much time as I can taking them hiking, swimming, running, etc. Also, in the first few months, I avoided any and all situations where alcohol might be involved. I had tried for years to get sober and I knew any temptation would get me.

Congrats on 16 days!! Keep it up! :)

Awesome! Congrats - keep it going!!

Fantastic SobrieTree ! You are an inspiration ! :You_Rock_

Congrats on six months sober! :scoregood

CONGRATS!!!

I can't wait to be there as well.

Fantastic job!! Keep up the good work.

:c011:

Fantastic! You inspire me!

6 Months is fantastic!! :You_Rock_

Congratulations SobrieTee!! :You_Rock_

Whoop whoop ST 🎉🎉🎉 you must be feeling a massive sense of achievement x

Congrats on six months, ST. :)