by figs
(ireland)
I stopped drinking because I find that once I start drinking that I cannot stop drinking . I have been trying to stay sober for the past 6 years and I’m now aged 32, I’ve had some success, each time I stay sober for a couple of months, one time 18 months, then I believe that I am after conquering this thing called alcoholism and I try to drink moderately. The moderation never works with me, never has, even when I started drinking at 18, i could never get drunk enough or fast enough.
For some reason, alcohol has an effect on me that is similar to that of the Native Americans drinking, I can’t handle the drink, I shouldn’t drink. Some people shouldn’t drink and I’m one of them .
I’ve also noticed that in other drinkers, maybe they have a lack of self awareness, but to me the hangovers are not worth the first hour of merriness .
I’m on my 100th time of giving up the beer, but this time it is different , I’m off it now for the long haul. I’ve been sober 5 months now (it would be a year if I hadn’t got smashed over the holidays , I and really regretted it), it gets easier as time goes by.
Never give up giving up.
I am a Mental Health Counselor who is licensed in both New York (LMHC) and North Carolina (LCMHC). I have been working in the Mental Health field since 2015. I have worked in a residential setting, an outpatient program and an inpatient addictions program. I began working in Long Island, NY and then in Guelph, Ontario after moving to Canada. I have since settled in North Carolina. I have experience working with various stages of addiction, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, stages of life concerns and relationship concerns.
I tend to use a person-centered approach which simply means that I meet you where you are and work collaboratively to help you identify and work towards accomplishing goals. I will often pull from CBT when appropriate. I do encourage use of mindfulness and meditation and practice these skills in my own life. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion.
I recognize that reaching out for help is hard and commend you for taking the first step. We have professionals available who would be happy to help you move closer to reaching your goals related to your drinking concerns. You may reach these professionals by calling 877-322-2694.