Less alcohol- January 2018- one day at a time
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Wow. Take a look at this TED talk I just watched. Is anybody here familiar with naltrexone and/or The Sinclair Method?
https://youtu.be/6EghiY_s2ts 2 -
Also - is there any kind of support network for people who don't want to completely abstain from alcohol, but would like to significantly cut back? Or is AA still the only option out there?1
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springsweet wrote: »Also - is there any kind of support network for people who don't want to completely abstain from alcohol, but would like to significantly cut back? Or is AA still the only option out there?
I'm just cutting back from the week days. So I still show that I drink Fri-Sun.3 -
Really interesting! I had heard of it but that was a pretty interesting TED talk.springsweet wrote: »Wow. Take a look at this TED talk I just watched. Is anybody here familiar with naltrexone and/or The Sinclair Method?https://youtu.be/6EghiY_s2ts
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springsweet wrote: »Wow. Take a look at this TED talk I just watched. Is anybody here familiar with naltrexone and/or The Sinclair Method?
Pretty powerful… Thanks for sharing.springsweet wrote: »Also - is there any kind of support network for people who don't want to completely abstain from alcohol, but would like to significantly cut back? Or is AA still the only option out there?
Someone here may be, I’m not aware of one.
I personally come from a family (mom’s side – not my mom) with a long history of alcohol abuse. That in and of itself has always made me conscious of my intake and patterns. I potentially walk a slippery slope but have always kept it in check.
Sustainable moderation has always been what I’ve practiced, but for many it is not. For some, it may not be possible.
One of my closest friends has been in and out of AA a few times over the last 30 years. He was dry for almost 15 years before he relapsed. He got clean again for about another 10 years before he was in trouble again. He’s sober again… for now… He shares his stories with me about what it’s like (much like the speaker in the video clip you provided) when he starts and can only stop once he blacks out.
I’ve asked him if he ever gets too full and needs to stop. He says at a certain point, he no longer feels that sensation and it’s all about the drink. He’s lost two marriages and the stories about what took place with his kids as young ones while growing up is terrifying.
Pretty scary, but very real.
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Had 2 glasses of wine last night, which is half my normal consumption, its a start I suppose.13
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springsweet wrote: »Wow. Take a look at this TED talk I just watched. Is anybody here familiar with naltrexone and/or The Sinclair Method?
Pretty powerful… Thanks for sharing.springsweet wrote: »Also - is there any kind of support network for people who don't want to completely abstain from alcohol, but would like to significantly cut back? Or is AA still the only option out there?
Someone here may be, I’m not aware of one.
I personally come from a family (mom’s side – not my mom) with a long history of alcohol abuse. That in and of itself has always made me conscious of my intake and patterns. I potentially walk a slippery slope but have always kept it in check.
Sustainable moderation has always been what I’ve practiced, but for many it is not. For some, it may not be possible.
One of my closest friends has been in and out of AA a few times over the last 30 years. He was dry for almost 15 years before he relapsed. He got clean again for about another 10 years before he was in trouble again. He’s sober again… for now… He shares his stories with me about what it’s like (much like the speaker in the video clip you provided) when he starts and can only stop once he blacks out.
I’ve asked him if he ever gets too full and needs to stop. He says at a certain point, he no longer feels that sensation and it’s all about the drink. He’s lost two marriages and the stories about what took place with his kids as young ones while growing up is terrifying.
Pretty scary, but very real.
I totally worry about becoming someone who like goes off the deep end and becomes an alcoholic (but I tend to worry about all kinds of terrible outcomes and illnesses) I guess this is why in the Naked Mind she talks about how personal it is for everyone. What they can handle. I personally hate being drunk. I think it feels terrible - so I walk that slippery slope of a couple glasses of wine. But tolerance builds through repetition. Man, I am loving the dry January and new perspective. I believe my alcohol consumption has been wrapped up in a) simply habit and b) a way to calm anxiety. This month has proved that I don’t need a glass of wine to calm down. In fact, a hot tea actually makes me feel better! I am curious about February though. I don’t want the daily “should I drink or not” take up so much headspace. I like not thinking about it! Sorry rambling6 -
SanDiegofitmom wrote: »I totally worry about becoming someone who like goes off the deep end and becomes an alcoholic (but I tend to worry about all kinds of terrible outcomes and illnesses) I guess this is why in the Naked Mind she talks about how personal it is for everyone. What they can handle. I personally hate being drunk. I think it feels terrible - so I walk that slippery slope of a couple glasses of wine. But tolerance builds through repetition. Man, I am loving the dry January and new perspective. I believe my alcohol consumption has been wrapped up in a) simply habit and b) a way to calm anxiety. This month has proved that I don’t need a glass of wine to calm down. In fact, a hot tea actually makes me feel better! I am curious about February though. I don’t want the daily “should I drink or not” take up so much headspace. I like not thinking about it! Sorry rambling
You're not rambling... It's real.. And, it is different for everyone. Each of us need to come to terms with it (or not) on our own- whatever that means.
Regardless, I think becoming aware of it and knowing how to deal with it honestly is key. Otherwise, it get's away and then issues come into play.
I keep using the term "sustainable moderation" because to me, it means knowing when to tone it down, when to turn it off and more importantly - when to enjoy. My personal definition says if I can't do any of those three - there's an issue.
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Day 16, still young but pretty much in the books.
Since we are sharing....I started drinking pretty late in life....early 20s and hated the taste at first. Over the years I developed a palate for black coffee and whiskey and vodka and olive brine. I have abused alcohol. I never ever get a hangover, no headache, but when I would wake up, I'd have a dry mouth, a bloated tummy and a feeling of deep regret. I went from one vodka martini to 3, and some nights even 4. The more I drank the more questionable my decisions would become. I would wake up the next day and think hard to last night and would be hoping I didnt make any stupid choices. It was my escape. I hope no more.13 -
I'm in!
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Day 16 done. Easier for me because I abstaining. Moderation is not my middle name. Same here @NormInv - I developed the taste for alcohol slowly and have many mornings of deep regret.
I do think there must be some genetic component for alcoholism. Growing up in a Russian family, I would see older relatives finish a whole bottle of Absolut at family functions. One bottle per person! Most of my first cousins are alcoholics. Three have died in their 50s from heart attacks, and they were alcoholics. My cousins are very loving and have hearts of gold, but it's all we saw growing up.
I've had mornings where I experienced brown outs and maybe black outs the night before, wondering what the hell did I do or say last night. I can't remember.
So for now, I want to try life without it and see how differently I can cope with stress and hard times. I'm really excited at how my body and mind are changing after only 16 days, Already I feel calmer and less moody. Hope everyone is doing well on their journey. I love learning and growing with you all. Xo16 -
Cant wait to start the Lush February thread...
....I kid I kid6 -
JulieAL1969 wrote: »Day 16 done. Easier for me because I abstaining. Moderation is not my middle name. Same here @NormInv - I developed the taste for alcohol slowly and have many mornings of deep regret.
I do think there must be some genetic component for alcoholism. Growing up in a Russian family, I would see older relatives finish a whole bottle of Absolut at family functions. One bottle per person! Most of my first cousins are alcoholics. Three have died in their 50s from heart attacks, and they were alcoholics. My cousins are very loving and have hearts of gold, but it's all we saw growing up.
I've had mornings where I experienced brown outs and maybe black outs the night before, wondering what the hell did I do or say last night. I can't remember.
So for now, I want to try life without it and see how differently I can cope with stress and hard times. I'm really excited at how my body and mind are changing after only 16 days, Already I feel calmer and less moody. Hope everyone is doing well on their journey. I love learning and growing with you all. Xo
hugs for you6 -
Another night down and feeling great! Can’t wait to wake up in the morning and get in a good workout before work!6
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JulieAL1969 wrote: »Day 16 done. Easier for me because I abstaining. Moderation is not my middle name. Same here @NormInv - I developed the taste for alcohol slowly and have many mornings of deep regret.
I do think there must be some genetic component for alcoholism. Growing up in a Russian family, I would see older relatives finish a whole bottle of Absolut at family functions. One bottle per person! Most of my first cousins are alcoholics. Three have died in their 50s from heart attacks, and they were alcoholics. My cousins are very loving and have hearts of gold, but it's all we saw growing up.
I've had mornings where I experienced brown outs and maybe black outs the night before, wondering what the hell did I do or say last night. I can't remember.
So for now, I want to try life without it and see how differently I can cope with stress and hard times. I'm really excited at how my body and mind are changing after only 16 days, Already I feel calmer and less moody. Hope everyone is doing well on their journey. I love learning and growing with you all. Xo
I am soooo happy for you!!!3 -
Day 16 and (3 days I drank since Jan 1). I still get moody but it passes much quicker. I am also enjoying seeing the changes in my skin and overall health. No more stomach issues or disagreements with food, no late night snacking. I wash the dishes now every night and the kitchen is spotless and all ready for the next day. Oh and the sleep is getting much deeper and incredible, I am waking up refreshed and a smile on my face and happy (not the normal bit#%) and so glad for not deciding to drink the night before. Abstaining has added more positives in my life. Now if I can only rub off on my husband. I am not asking him to quit just cut back during the week, he would feel so much better.6
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Hubby and I went for pizza last night (as you can see we go out to eat OFTEN) LOL! I was proud that I didnt get any beer. Pizza and Beer goes hand in hand like Peanut butter and Jelly. But I totally passed and had water. Sooooooo proud of myself. I hate the feeling of temptation though and the internal struggle to drink or not to drink.
Great job avoiding a great pairing of food and drink. Little by little, we are growing stronger. Proud of you!1 -
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crazykatlady820 wrote: »I don't really have any tips for avoiding alcohol. For me it is just knowing that I'm an alcoholic. I know that probably isn't the case for the majority of you. But the only way I found that I could avoid it was to admit that first to myself and then to my loved ones (because I knew I needed a support system in place). Realizing that the road I was on wasn't leading anywhere good and changing course was my only option. I tried cutting back for years and I always ended up right back where I started, so I just had to admit that wasn't working for me and figure out what would- quitting for good.
Even though we don't all have the same goals when it comes to alcohol I really enjoy talking with you guys about my struggles and successes. I love that we all hold no judgement whatsoever. Whether you are in control and just want to cut down a little or a lot, or whether you struggle with control like me, you can get to where you want to be if you just focus on one day and one step at a time. Celebrate your victories and move on from your setbacks.
I sound so cheesy. But I do mean it.
I am quitting too. 3 days now and counting. Going to my first AA meeting tonight. No more "I will just have a little" and no more, "I'll quit for a while then start back slowly"...nope, nothing has worked. I have to quit for good. OMG, can I do this. I will do my best.13 -
Nessiechickie wrote: »Feeling a bit discourage my b/f for the last three days has gotten $h!tfaced and missed work for partying (being hungover) while I have been good and going to bed. I know I use to be the same but its tempting to cave when he is drinking and join him. But at the same time I am so disappointed in his actions. (missing work... really)
1/1-drank
1/2-no-hungover (at work)- over ate
1/3-no
1/4-no
1/5-drank
1/6-no
1/7-drank
1/8 no
1/9 no
1/10 no
1/11 drank
1/12 drank
1/13 drank
1/14 no
1/15 no
1/16 no- dont plan to
37.5% - enjoying keeping this percentage talley keeps me motivated to lower it or just see it not rise
My goal is 1 less beer a night, I'm holding about 50% (every other night). You are doing great! Keep it up!4 -
Nessiechickie wrote: »springsweet wrote: »Also - is there any kind of support network for people who don't want to completely abstain from alcohol, but would like to significantly cut back? Or is AA still the only option out there?
I'm just cutting back from the week days. So I still show that I drink Fri-Sun.
I'm considering this thread a support network. I'm trying to cut back.5 -
Glad it is a new day. Have been under horrible stress with work, one of my children's work schedules and now my Dad can't get an operation because he has blockages in his heart at the age of 80. Well new goals today.4
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I just saw this thread. Today is my 7th day alcohol free. I've tried to moderate for years, but only ended up right back to (or more) than the last amount of alcohol I stopped at. I learned that abstinence is the only road for me.3
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flippy1234 wrote: »crazykatlady820 wrote: »I don't really have any tips for avoiding alcohol. For me it is just knowing that I'm an alcoholic. I know that probably isn't the case for the majority of you. But the only way I found that I could avoid it was to admit that first to myself and then to my loved ones (because I knew I needed a support system in place). Realizing that the road I was on wasn't leading anywhere good and changing course was my only option. I tried cutting back for years and I always ended up right back where I started, so I just had to admit that wasn't working for me and figure out what would- quitting for good.
Even though we don't all have the same goals when it comes to alcohol I really enjoy talking with you guys about my struggles and successes. I love that we all hold no judgement whatsoever. Whether you are in control and just want to cut down a little or a lot, or whether you struggle with control like me, you can get to where you want to be if you just focus on one day and one step at a time. Celebrate your victories and move on from your setbacks.
I sound so cheesy. But I do mean it.
I am quitting too. 3 days now and counting. Going to my first AA meeting tonight. No more "I will just have a little" and no more, "I'll quit for a while then start back slowly"...nope, nothing has worked. I have to quit for good. OMG, can I do this. I will do my best.
You'll have to let us know about your meeting and if you liked it. A few days ago, a lady posted on this thread about AA and her experiences. It was fascinating to read. Best wishes!2 -
kcn2bluesky wrote: »@MaryBethHempel I love your updates, in particular the one today! You are inspiring!
I am doing well abstaining and my hubby is very supportive of whatever I want to do...dry or damp for January, and to continue afterwards if I want. He does drink craft beers, but very moderately. Only 1 or 2 per night, and not every night of the week. It doesn't bother me at all that he has a beer or two while I'm abstaining, which I thought at first it might. I've found that with changing my habit of settling down in the evening with a glass of wine, along with having read This Naked Mind, the desire to have any alcohol at all is pretty much gone at this point.
I'm curious if you all have the support of others in your life while you are doing the dry or damp January? This thread is tremendously inspiring, but I'm finding it very helpful to also have the love and encouragement from my hubby as well.
Hi, it is nice to have support from here on MFP and yes, I do have support from my husband, family, and friends. Although yesterday was a bit interesting when my hubby just bottle a bunch of wine and said to me, "Taste this, it is better than the usual Concord that we make". I told him immediately that I was just drinking green tea and it wouldn't taste good. I was so glad that I was drinking tea, as I would have been tempted to taste it. I feel that if it happens again that I am prepared now and will decline. I am going to tell him today not even to ask me to taste.
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JulieAL1969 wrote: »Day 16 done. Easier for me because I abstaining. Moderation is not my middle name. Same here @NormInv - I developed the taste for alcohol slowly and have many mornings of deep regret.
I do think there must be some genetic component for alcoholism. Growing up in a Russian family, I would see older relatives finish a whole bottle of Absolut at family functions. One bottle per person! Most of my first cousins are alcoholics. Three have died in their 50s from heart attacks, and they were alcoholics. My cousins are very loving and have hearts of gold, but it's all we saw growing up.
I've had mornings where I experienced brown outs and maybe black outs the night before, wondering what the hell did I do or say last night. I can't remember.
So for now, I want to try life without it and see how differently I can cope with stress and hard times. I'm really excited at how my body and mind are changing after only 16 days, Already I feel calmer and less moody. Hope everyone is doing well on their journey. I love learning and growing with you all. Xo
I'm no scientist but there is definitely a genetic component. That's not to say all alcoholics come from alcoholic families, nor are you guaranteed to be an alcoholic if it runs in your family. But like many diseases, there is a higher chance. It runs in my family on both sides, so I really have to be careful.
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Goal — January under 7 drinks a week- for my health.....my mind.....my body....Freedom from alcohol ruling my life!
1/1 =alcohol free
1/2 = 4 wine spritzers
1/3 =alcohol free
1/4 =alcohol free
1/5 =alcohol free while my husband must of drank almost 2 bottles of wine....I wasn't tempted, which was great!
1/6 =alcohol free while my husband must of drank almost 2 bottles of wine
1/7 =alcohol free while my husband must of drank almost 2 bottles of wine-I copy and paste! Rerun! I feel that now I don't even want one drink as it is never enough...I always want more! I will see how long I can be FREE from alcohol. Losing weight and feeling great!
1/8 =DITTO...I slept better last night--had an Atkins bar around 8...maybe that was it...I also had to go to my guest room again for my husbands snoring started again!
1/9 =DITTO and lost another pound---Wow! 7 days alcohol FREE!! This is the longest I have gone for years!
1/10 =8 days freedom
1/11 =9 days freedom- looking forward to reading my new books...This Naked Mind and Blackout-Remembering The Things I Drank to Forget...
1/12 =10 days clean! My hubby only drank during the day, not last night. He didn't snore last night, so I didn't have to go to our guest room to sleep. Read the first 2 1/2 chapters of This Naked Mind and finding it interesting.
1/13 =11 Days freedom! It is actually getting easier at this point...I just ordered some liver detox....
1/14 =12 Days freedom! It really helps to have all you on MFP for support! Thank you all!!
1/15 =13 days---Wow! I am finally sleeping in my own bed now because my husband cuts off his drinking at night and he doesn't snore so loud to make me go into our guest room! LOL! He didn't like me going into the guest room, so he cut down...
1/16 =14 days freedom! 2 weeks!! YAY! I have to note how yesterday was a bit interesting when my hubby just bottle a bunch of wine and said to me, "Taste this, it is better than the usual Concord that we make". I told him immediately that I was just drinking green tea and it wouldn't taste good. I was so glad that I was drinking tea, as I would have been tempted to taste it. I feel that if it happens again that I am prepared now and will decline. I am going to tell him today not even to ask me to taste.
1/17 =
1/18 =
1/19 =
1/20 =
1/21 =
1/22 =
1/23 =
1/24 =
1/25 =
1/26 =
1/27 =
1/28 =
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This discussion has been closed.
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