Hello all
A shiny new thread for those that would like to give up alcohol forever and a shiny new OP. (twirls)
The wonderful Drybird started these thread a loooong time ago and I'm sure many of you will agree that it has made such a massive difference to the lives of those who have read them or posted on them. Drybird would like to take a little break from hosting the threads so asked me if I would start one this time. The suggestion was that we can take it in turns after that which I think is a great idea .
Anyone is welcome to join and post but please be aware that this thread is for those of us who want to give up alcohol completely. It doesn't matter if you are on day 1, week 6 or year 5 (and it doesn't matter how many day 1s you have), there just has to be an intention to let go of alcohol altogether. So please no talk of moderating or drinking at the present moment or in the future, it can be triggering for some of us. There are many other wonderful threads for those who would prefer to moderate and we wish you well. If you decide that total abstinence is for you then come back.
It doesn't matter what your reason is, if you feel like it's an issue then you are welcome. It really is a friendly bunch. I also want to say hello to all the lurkers who don't want to post for one reason or another and say I hope that these threads give you support too.
There are many threads before this so if you are new, do look back, there is always at least a link to the last one at the beginning of each. Every thread is rich with advice and support. I personally have felt held in so many ways by each and everyone who has posted and I don't feel I would be here at 1yr2 months sober without it. Post daily, hourly even if it helps or just dip in now and again when you feel the need. It's not always the easist thing to do but it is worth it and it is easier with a group as supportive as this. We are each other's cheerleaders and underatns where we are coming from when the times are tough.
Here is the link to the last one....
www.mumsnet.com/Talk/alcohol_support/4324737-Freedom-An-alcohol-free-thread-for-alcohol-free-people
These threads have been a lifesaver for so many of us with ideas from AF alternatives, Quit Lit suggestions to why our brains are wired the way they are and what tools we can learn to help us break free from the fog of alcohol. But most of all it's a lovely safe space where we can talk, vent, moan, ask questions, give advice and support each other. As we get to know each other there is also a lot of daily chat about what's going on in our lives - running, books, gardening, yoga and family. It really is a warm, welcoming and friendly space so do join in.
The suggestion to get this thread going is for everyone to have a think of what they gain from not drinking, what are the positives? Or if you are on day 1 then what is the thing you are most looking forward to? Let's let go of the idea that we are denying ourselves something or that we are living less than and list what we are gaining instead.
My main positive (in amongst all the fresh skin, clear head, lack of hangovers, lack of shame better health - physically and mentally, I could go on and on........) is the fact that I don't have the eternal converation in my head going round of whether to have a drink that day or not. I am (mostly) free from that and it is amazing!
So whether you are a regular or a newbie, do say hello and introduce yourself.
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Alcohol support
The Freedom Thread - Enjoying the positives of an alcohol free life
Breathmiller · 02/10/2021 18:47
ullyssus welcome back. So good to see that you are at 22 months. One of the things that spurred me on at the beginning was seeing those up ahead of still managing it. It showed it was possible. I had a real sense of "well, if she can do it, I am also a human and I'm sure she isn't that different from me so it means I can too"
I hope that you coming back on helps others too.
As elsacragg says though it's not easy. If it was then we would have no need for this thread.
Stayingvigilant has one of the best names to remind me of this. Not to get complacent.
As adm101 said its amazing how that voice can get you. I have done 18 months before and it was that voice that told me that I could moderate, that it wasn't a problem, that I had proved something, that caught me. So I am vigilant to that voice and I know a bit more this time that it lies. It doesn't really come up much anymore but what's good is that I have an answer for it.
"Ahhh...maybe you can moderate, maybe you should try, you've proved you can stop., go on. Just one."
"I hear you but you're a lying little bugger and I know it's not true. So off you pop, there's a love" 
@Neveratruerfriend if you feed your reward centre even once it will more than likely start your particular pattern again ( whatever that was !) is that a risk you feel like taking ? Obviously your choice / risk but be aware how your brain will react to alcohol
@Breathmiller I love “ off you pop there’s a love” so much more polite than my usual FUCK OFF !!! think I’ll steal that
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