Silver11

I’m determined to get back my lost time.
have any of you bounced back after losing a big stretch of sober time?

LumenandNyx

Hi Superman,

I think most of us who have accumulated a chunk or two of sober time feel as though we're either bouncing back or have bounced back (can't speak for others). That said - unfortunately - the 23 years I spent drinking are gone. I lost my 30s and my 40s. I'm 50 now and sometimes I can't believe it. I flit between being surprised that I made it to 50 and that I AM freakin' 50! How'd I get HERE?!!

I picked myself up and now I'm headed toward whatever future my past has created while doing the best I can - making the best decisions I know how to.

least

My last (LAST) relapse came after 6 hard earned sober months. I was so disappointed in myself. But I came out of it more determined than ever, and now am coming up on 11 yrs. So yes, it's possible to relapse and then fully embrace recovery.

Silver11

Thank you so much.

Gabe1980

Most I have had is eight months....I really do believe we can get sober forever though.

Philemon

I don't see how this time is "lost"?
Do you know a way of undoing the past?

You lived that time without relying on drink, you had experiences in that sober time, you learnt things, you lived your life. All you have lost is a number you were counting in your head. I think sometimes this counting days can be useful and an encouragement but sometimes a handicap.
And I know of 4 people in my life who had long stretches of not drinking, years in fact. Then went back for another dip in the murky waters, didn't like it and didn't go back again.

Philemon

PS .. I only asked if you knew a way of undoing the past on behalf of a friend

Awake61

My alcoholism really took off in my late 30s, with a stretch of sobriety for 5 years. When I drank again, I chose to lose all control and in my 60s am finally staying on the path of sobriety. The only thing I can do is stay on this path and be there for my loved ones and myself.

Hodd

I don’t see it as lost time either, Clark.

When someone frequently drinks again and describes it as a blip, I think it’s more serious. In your case, however, it really was a blip. You’ve certainly not taken it lightly so don’t dwell on it. Saying that, you mentioned reasons for the blip so hopefully there’s no alcohol close by in case similar happens again?

Dee74

No One loses the things they accomplished or learned in recovery IMO.
Thinking about 'lost time' is probably not the most positive way to look at it.

Think of this as a relaunch instead - recovery 2.0 - new and improved?

D

Hevyn

Hi clark. I had 3 yrs. sober once. Decided I could have 'a few' drinks. It took me years to get back on track, but once I did I never faltered again. (12 yrs. sober now.)
Congrats on your Day 6 - you're going to do this.

Silver11

Yes!