I have to stop drinking

Morning all.

​I have woken this morning with a craving for the burn of vodka. Went to an AA meeting last night. It was very crowded and in a very small room. Felt claustraphobic and a little panicky but saw it through and was glad that I did. Trying to keep the craving away by drinking lots of non alcoholic fluids.

Well done on going to a meeting. Try lots as they are all quite different. Drinking lots of fluid is good. Stay full at all times. I find if I'm hungry or sugar levels drop that I'm much more prone to cravings and giving in to them. Eat lots and treat yourself with chocolate or icecream. Coke with lots of ice is a treat for me so find a soft drink you really like. Keep in touch and massive well done to you..c X 

Hi Paper fairy,

​I will do as you suggest although I have never had a sweet tooth. I haven't eaten yet today as I feel nauseous and by habit I avoid food so that the vodka kicks in quickly. There is a lot of chocolate around at the moment due to Christmas but will try and eat some toast first. Thank you.

I was like that for years when drinking. But after long periods of being sober my sweet tooth returned! My treats now are as above plus going out for a coffee and a cake! Funny how you change. Did put on weight but it's settled down now. The same happened years ago when I gave up cigs. 

Hope you have a better day today. I also find after a binge( when feeling sick and no appetite) dry wafer buscuits or crackers help plus banana and any fruit. Take care xx

Morning all,

​Went to another AA meeting last night which makes it one a day for 3 days. Never tried that frequency during my previous visits. I would go maybe once or twice a week and think that was enough. I got a lot out of last night and there was someone there that I recognised from about 7 years ago. They are doing really well and still sober.

​I am so glad I have this forum though. As I struggle to pick up the phone and speak to people I can at least log in and read posts from people struggling with the same illness and realise I am not alone. I have a lot to deal with and the next few days, weeks and months are going to be tough. I stand a high chance of losing everything including what remains of my sanity.

​Thank you for listening and hope you all have a good and sober day. 

Well done Emma and glad you're getting on in aa. I've made a few very good friends there who I stay in touch with most days. Remember to live in the day and not to dwell on the past or worry about the future. This helps me stay focused. Don't overdo things when you start to get you strength back. That's a big mistake for me through bitter experience. 

2015 has been a difficult year but I face 2016 feeling positive. I've mainly been sober but have had a few relapses in the last few months. I've learnt a lot from these mistakes though. 

This site and the lovely people who post their advice and experience on here have helped me so much. So thank you all who have taken the time to help me. Wishing you hope and happiness all of you ..C xx

Hi all,

​Just an update. This is my 7th sober day. Been to lots of AA meetings and am feeling ok. Long way to go and I know that when I start having to sort out my problems it is going to tough.

​Hope you are all ok and thanks for all the support and encouragement.

7 days!  Nice.

​Your feeling ok?  What does that mean? I hope you are feeling very proud of your accomplishment!  I hope you are meeting some new friends in AA.

​Yea, when we stop alot of problems come into our minds...that we were numbing...you will get stronger as you work thru them.

​I'm happy for you and Happy New Year!

Hi Emma,

May I tell you a bit about my early days which will help I hope. I went to the railway to commit suicide such was my desperation. I ended up at the samaritans who took me to A.A. It was a waste of time as I was too pi**ed and spent the whole meeting having collapsed through the seat of a canavass bottomed chair. When the meeting finished, I went drinking.

I did go back to A.A. a few times and I too wasn't happy about the higher power concept. I didn't go again for a couple of years and stayed drunk.

I went back, took from the meetings the things that suited me, became a secretary, did service (making tea, opening up etc.) and it was the best thing I ever did. I've been sober since.... 25 years ago. I went through the motions about the higher power concept and then chose my own higher power. I coud then concentrate on the steps.

Initially, forget about a higher power...... it can be your dog or your front door if you want it to be. Just go, meet people who are in the same boat and make new friends you won't be to spend all your time drinking with, in or out of home.

I met one of my best friends at A.A. then more friends and more friends and kept my sensible drinking friends. It changed my life for the better - unbelievable! Please don't dismiss A.A. because of a God, religion or Higher Power........... if it doesn't suit at first, just pretend, it doesn't matter...... it's what the other aloholics share that matters. You'll hear your own story told by others then you'll realise that you're not as alone as maybe you think you are.

A.A. saved my life and I was able to help others too which is one of the best medicines.

Best wishes and have a sober tomorrow. Peter who t