Support thread for anyone trying to lead an Alcohol free life - Winter 25

[Lavrander]

Hello and welcome!
This thread is for anyone who is trying to live an alcohol-free life. It was first set up by @drybird and has grown into a safe, supportive space to share thoughts, ask advice, swap experiences, or simply check in as we give up and keep off the booze.

There’s no judgment here – just encouragement. Whether you post every day, once in a while, or just read along quietly, you’re part of the group. Many of us have found this thread invaluable, whether brand new to abstaining or years into AF life.

Wherever you are on the journey, someone here will have been there too. Don’t be shy about posting – we love celebrating successes of all shapes and sizes, and we’ll support you through the tougher times as well.

The only thing we ask is that your aim is complete abstinence. If your goal is moderation or a break, there are a couple of really good threads on this board that will be a better fit. That doesn't mean that slips don't happen, and we'll support you in picking yourself back up and carrying on.

Living alcohol-free isn’t always easy in today’s world, but it is absolutely worth it. And you don’t have to do it alone – we’re here to help each other realise just how good AF life can be.

Bless you @Becky3825 - all I can say is that I have been down at the bottom of the pit myself, unable to get a finger-hold on the slippery walls to climb out. It won't always be this sh~t, I promise. It's worth fighting for, your sobriety and your better future. I know it's hard and it's horrible. But you are strong; you can do this. I believe in you and so does Sid. Everyone else here too - we're here not because we are wretched and failed old soaks - we're here because we are brave, strong and we want to fight for our freedom and better days to come. In being here, we're already on the ladder to the top decks, where the air is clear and the views are spectacular.

We've got this. We are mighty. And, in the meantime, there is Sid.

@REP22 Thank you 🥲. I just feel so hopeless and exhausted by it all.

And Sid is incredible 🫠🥰

Gordon's.

Can someone hold the thread please? Im still a bit groggy from my meds.
We're on the last page. Thanks.

Sorry you're feeling grotty @WendyWagon - hope you're on the mend soon. x Happy to host if @Lavrander wants a break from it - or more than happy to cheer from the sidelines (Sidlines?!) if our noble Captain wants to continue. x

Wow that filled up quickly!
@REP22can you take the next one?

Yes, lots of lovely supportive posts and new friends. 🙂 Happy to oblige @Lavrander - thank you for steering us so well thus far. x

Here we are lads - The Continuing Support Thread for Anyone Trying to Lead an Alcohol-Free Life Spring 2026 | Mumsnet. Come on over when this one's full, and please feel free to tag in members old and new. Sid has launched the new vessel with a magnum of his AF "home brew". Try not to think about where he got it from.

Thanks @Lavrander ❤️xxx

Thank you @Lavrander for your helmsmanship (I may have made that word up) - a double stint I think? So a double thank you ❤️

And thank you in advance @REP22 - you were Cap’n when I first clambered aboard, so a very lovely return. And this can mean only one thing - MORE SID!!!