[cleanfor2years]

Im a middle aged man who gave up alcohol for the sake of my health and kids 2 + years ago. I wobbled twice since (short terms both times) but generally I am strong and dont miss it.

However – at this time of year (especially in Scotland) its in your face 24 7. I feel i am a bit of a party pooper at times and almost consider taking a drink to blend in socially!

Anyone else feel similar and any ideas for staying strong and not bending to social peer pressure?

[rose300]

Also in Scotland and it is so hard to stay sober . Especially this time of yeah like you said . I used to casually drink every few months now it’s every week ….’I don’t drink to get drink and don’t always get drunk I just like the taste and idea of prosecco, but I’d love to give up … I know how and I know all the things / tips i could be doing and do them sometimes but want to do them all the time 🙁 it’s so hard ….. maybe counselling is the next step ?

[cleanfor2years]

Rose300 – for me it was about how big was my driver for change. I was pretty low in life when I decided to stop but it was coming from a pretty dark place that gave me the motivation to change my life. I’m not perfect – went to councelling but still went back to it briefly- but I hope I stay strong from here – even if I do feel like a social leper at this time of year!

Think ur idea to try counseling is a good one. As u dont want to go to the dark place to get ur motivation. Its not always about stopping for everyone either. Managing and controlling can be an option to?

[michelle100]

I’ve only just started the process of giving up alcohol and feel horrible! I was at a very dark place in my life and had to make a cry out for help. Does anyone have any advice they can give me? I have only been dry for 3 days. Currently unable to eat and keep vomiting (dry retching)

[cleanfor2years]

Michelle 100 – Don’t know how deep a place u r recovering from but I think u might be best to see a doc as u may need short term vitamins / potassium / thiamin tabs (bananas are an excellent source of potassium). If u have been heavy on drink for a long time and u just stop then ur body may react badly and ur blood sugar and salt levels can drop to dangerous levels.

Suggest u also get councelling – call a free phone line or speak to ur local medical team. It WILL help.

But well done u – it’s a brave brave decision u have taken and see the first 3 weeks out and u will feel MASSIVELY different. Use the way u feel right now to never go back to that deep dark place again. I never will and my life has never been better.

Please please stick with ur recovery Michelle 100. Better days are within ur grasp.

[michelle100]

I have been on 4 bottles of wine a day at my worst, but weaned myself down until just on half a bottle and now nothing, think I did it a bit quick though. I am going to ring the doctors at 8 and make an appointment. I am feeling rubbish but also very proud of myself.

Thanks for your help

[cleanfor2years]

Michelle100 – You should be v proud. You did the right thing coming off gradually too. Good luck and stay strong.

[cmxx]

Hi Michelle,

Detoxing can be quite dangerous.

Have you spoken to your doctor yet?

If you have not yet got through to them please call 111, an NHS helpline through which you can speak to a medical adviser or nurse.

Here is more information on the 111 helpline: https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care/nhs-111/

You may also want to call Drinkline. They can give you advise on how to detox safely, and their number is 0300 123 1110.

Please do call the above numbers as soon as possible if you have not yet spoken to your GP.

Very best wishes,

Clara

[michelle100]

Have an appointment for this afternoon. The sooner the better TBH. Did anyone else start hearing noises in their ears???

[cmxx]

That is great news about the Doctors appointment. I think that considering your symptoms, which sound really unpleasant, you should call 111 as well now. They will give you advice in the meantime, and will be able to assess if you need immediate medical assistance.

Best wishes,

Clara

[cleanfor2years]

Michelle100 – yes had the noises in the ears. Blood vessel swell caused by the detox process causes temporary tinnitus. It wont last tho but mention it to Doc too.

[cleanfor2years]

Michelle100 – hope u got some help from Docs yest and are starting to feel a bit better now?

[michelle100]

I had a bit of an episode because had stopped too quickly and ended up going to hospital on the doctors recommendation. To put a long story short they have made me start drinking again but on a ration like medicine. Am waiting for Monday to ring counselling.

I’m actually feeling much better now though and have been given medication to help me. The doctor gave me diazapan to help me sleep, not sure I will take that for too long though.

On the plus size, my blood tests were all perfect as was my blood pressure. I’m actually in good health considering how long I have been drinking for!

Thank you for asking about me, it means a lot!

[cleanfor2years]

That’s really good news think u r right about the diazepam – u have to be careful with that.

Good news about ur blood too but if u will allow me to give u one last bit of advice – pls dont use it as a green light to start drinking again cos ur health is “ok”. I only say that because that’s what I did and my next hospital visit was circa 2 weeks with my life at risk before I got there. We are all different tho.

Really pleased u r feeling better tho. The first few days are pretty tough. Well done you!

[michelle100]

I really appreciate your advice, thank you so much for your help. It’s so good to hear someone else’s story. I am so determined to get there. I have another doctors appointment on Wednesday.

Take care

[cleanfor2years]

Hi Michelle100. Hows recovery going? Hope u r ok. Take care.

[michelle100]

Hi,

Thanks for getting in touch. So far so good now thanks. Taking each day one at a time and waiting to start some group therapy sessions so will see how that goes? Not easy but i’m still determined.

Hope you are fit and well?

Michelle

[cleanfor2years]

I’m ok thanks. Have my moments too and a very happy but busy / stressful work life and home life can sometimes lead me to be tempted to switch off / chill / cope by taking a drink. But I know my mental and physical health will suffer – with the memories of my dark place and last years lapse still vivid, so I stay true and strong!

But the difficult days are outnumbered by the good days and you can see the bad ones coming too.

Glad u r getting support and working hard. Good luck.

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