The Continuing Support Thread for Anyone Trying to Lead an Alcohol-Free Life Spring 2026

[REP22]

Hello and welcome. I’m glad you’ve found your way here. We are a bunch of people who are trying to give up and keep off alcohol. No judgement, just honest support and kindness.
The original thread was started by @drybird2020 in 2020 and we have plenty of veterans and newer members who can offer advice and signposting. You are welcome here, whether you post several times a day, once or twice and then never again, or if you only just come to read but have no intention of ever posting.
Whatever your stage on the AF journey, and whatever you’re going through, someone here will have gone through it too. Don’t be shy about posting, we love to celebrate your successes of whatever shape and size - and will support you when things get challenging. We get it, we've been there too.
All we ask is that you’re genuinely trying to abstain. We don't encourage moderation-only here, as it can be triggering for some to read. If you’re looking to moderate your drinking rather than quitting it altogether then MN has another long-running and very active moderation/abstaining thread that’s always near the top on the alcohol support board. Lots of fine support there from those worthy people too. Keep trying. Sobriety may not be easy - but I guarantee you that it is worth it.
I started trying to give up drink in 2018, succeeded (mostly) in 2019 but had a few “wobbles”, one of which led me here in April 2023. I still struggle sometimes but the posters on this thread have been an absolute godsend of wisdom, support and encouragement, along with my dog - known here as Sid (not his real name), and they keep me going. I hope you find strength and comfort here too. This thread and its wonderful posters has been a lifesaver to many, and have certainly seen me through many good and not-so-good days.
These books were particularly helpful to me and I still go back to them from time to time: The Sober Diaries by Clare Pooley (Amazon - Sober Diaries) and The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober by Catherine Gray (Amazon - Unexpected Joy). Others have found This Naked Mind by Annie Grace (Amazon - This Naked Mind) helpful. There are Apps that help track your AF journey, including Reframe and the ones I use, I Am Sober and TryDry. Podcasts can also be helpful. I have found One for the Road by Sober Dave to be a good listen. But different things work for different people. Feel free to post and ask. There is solidarity, wisdom and support here. This is a safe space where your voice will be heard, understood and valued.
Warmer weather is coming. Keep an eye out for that first daffodil waving in the breeze, and make yourself at home. It's going to be alright. x

Thanks everyone.
I must say when I first started posting here 200 days felt like a life time away. So if you're a reading this and feeling like it is, it just is one day at a time. A year now seems like a life time away now but I'll get there. All I need to do is choose Alcohol free drinks every time.

@REP22 such wonderful words thank you. You really are a bloody good captain. The Lord Nelson of our thread.

I quite like Nosecco, which is strange because I was never a fan of its alcoholic version - I was always a Cava drinker when I wanted sparkling wine. Not sure if it counts as AF 'wine' but Schloer is nice too.

Bless you, that's very kind of you. I am mediocre compared to other noble captains such as yourself and @WendyWagon - I'm more of a Captain Smee. Sid would probably like to dress up as Lady Hamilton though. No good can come of that. He's gone off to watch the snooker. xx

@lavrander congratulations on 200 days that is a brilliant!

Good morning, you lovely lot. Hope everyone got through Friday night OK.
I had THE best night. Went for my sauna and dip, we had dinner afterwards in a private pod and not a single person (of 8 of us) had alcohol, because so many were driving or doing dry Jan. Was the most gorgeous evening and made me feel like I’m on the right side of it all. Normally I would have felt stressed at the lack of alcohol and been trying to get home to have some before bed.
Tonight I’ve promised to pick up DS from a party after midnight, another thing I would have felt stressed and resentful about because I’d have wanted to be drinking.
So nice to be really feeling some of the benefits!

That sounds like a lovely evening @eekwhatnow.
It sounds odd too but I've got a lot of joy out of picking people up or dropping them off, because I can. One day the generosity will run out I'm sure.

Must choose something to declutter today. Possibly all the shoes at the bottom of my wardrobe whilst listening to the latest Rest is History - Joan of Arc. Also got to get myself down the gym. I signed up to a fitness challenge - not Hyrox - if I'm honest it looks a lot harder than that. Regretting it a bit as I didn't fully look at what was involved and now got to make sure I don't get carted off by St John's Ambulance during it!

Morning! I’m sat in the car waiting to do parkrun. There’s no WAY I would have done this if I’d been drinking. I really feel like I’m finally able to live the life I’ve been wanting to live. Blood pressure has been perfect the last couple of days despite a fairly stressful course yesterday - and I coped with that far better than I would have previously.
We have friends round for dinner this evening but one of them doesn’t drink and hasn’t for years, so that should be easy. There will be wine, but not in my glass 😁
IWNDWYT 💜

Wahoo hit 11 months today! Came to London yesterday with a friend for the afternoon and stayed over, went to see a show. Previously we would have drunk all day, been hammered for the show then gone out afterwards. Instead we had a lovely booze free day, have woken feeling good and about to do brunch and shopping

Enjoy your Saturdays!

Happy weekend all. Day 22 here and the scales tell me I’m losing weight which I’m very happy about as my clothes were incredibly tight and my confidence in the toilet. After seeing a post on a different thread I’m considering having my colours done.

Standard weekend here playing mum taxi. Need to do a couple of bits in the garden but nothing too strenuous.

Have a lovely day everyone.

Your evening sounds amazing @eekwhatnow ! How lovely

Well done on the parkrun @WhatMaggieDid

Congratulations on 11 months @HorrorFan81 !! Being present for these things makes such a difference- it’s also the little details like not needing the loo so urgently at the theatre when you haven’t been drinking wine all day (or is that just me 🤣?)

Congratulations @HorrorFan81🎉

May I join?

I don't drink in the week but for some reason, I do at the weekend. And those weekend units are creeping up. I didn't even expect to drink last night, but ended up having 12 units and now I feel awful and have lots to do today. And I'm meant to go out tonight with people I haven't been out with before.

I had wanted to quit altogether because alcoholism runs in my family, ending in a terribly violent death for one person. So every drink feels like a failure.

It's also impacting on my sport. I'm fit and active and wanted to train today. But not sure I can. Am after my black belt.

I thought stopping would be easy given I only drink 1 or 2 times a week.

@Onewildandpreciouslife no that's totally me with the loo too! Didn't need to go anywhere near as much yesterday it made such a difference

Good morning shipmates, good to be sober with you this morning. And so glad to hear about your quality evenings and fresh clear mornings. ❤️

I joyfully echo @Onewildandpreciouslife - not needing the loo so much, especially in theatres is a blessing indeed. Flushed with success, hehe

Welcome @FabledLands - I am glad you've found us. This is a safe and friendly space, with lots of wise and kind posters. No judgement here - just solidarity and support.

Brilliant news on 11 months @HorrorFan81 that's epic! Are you planning a special treat for your 1 year?

My Vax plans have to be put on hold as M demands shipment to Lidl. Might see if I can swap her for a carrot, hehe. Sid is baffled that we were up and out before lunchtime. But he too celebrates the bright new day, with snowdrops in the garden and buds on the trees. However - the first bit of carpet HAS been prepped and there may be unboxing of attachments and accoutrements this evening. Small steps, little and often.

Strength and courage my friends. We are going to make it, you and I. Sid knows you've got this. All shall be well. x

@REP22- Oh Sid you handsome pup!! What a happy face to see this morning. Rocking into day 5 and while my evening of peace has caused a lot of "thinking" about it, I've decided to treat myself to some non alcoholic beer and a decent meal. Maybe even a takeout, since I've saved so much money by (mostly) avoiding the booze for the past 17 days. I'm absolutely looking forward to another clear morning tomorrow.

@HorrorFan81 congratulations on 11 months!

@REP22 I love Sid, see how happy he is enjoying an AF life, inspirational!

Well done everyone exercising, being healthy and keeping going.

I'm still feeling pretty ropey (chest infection) but have a nice restful day planned. Day 7, one whole week. First small milestone.

Afternoon shipmates! A veritable hive of industry and self care happening for folks today.
@eekwhatnow that sounded like the perfect evening! And it’s great being able to do the late night teen collections without resentment 😂 I used to be in so deep most evenings I couldn’t have done a 6pm collection let alone midnight. It’s just nice being available if needed isn’t it?
@WhatMaggieDid yay on the parkrun! I used to volunteer a lot and it was a great way to start the weekend! I could probably volunteer again tbh now I’m off the sauce! Don’t think I’ll be running it anytime soon though!
@HorrorFan81 massive congratulations on 11 months. And your trip sounds fantastic! Another great example of how being AF doesn’t have to mean no fun!
@FabledLands great username and welcome to the ship! All voyagers welcome here!
Ive had a busy morning -went to the gym which seems to be a good habit that’s sticking nicely! Then the boring food shop followed by a frenzy of mopping, hoovering and washing. I even cleaned the skirting boards (although am slightly disgusted by the level of filth I uncovered). Got the dog out to the beach and am now having an hour reclined on the sofa like a virtuous potato.

As everyone I know seems to be doing dry January I am no longer fielding questions about why I’m not drinking. I suspect February will be harder in that regard but I’ll deal with that when I get there. My DH commented yesterday that he has hardly drank any alcohol since I’ve stopped. Unlike my previous habits he only ever drinks in company. He commented how much better his sleep is and he hardly touched the stuff compared to me. Just shows how poisonous it is even at so called “safe” levels!
Happy Saturday all!

I find it so odd how wonderful not drinking feels, yet still people drink.

I'm off out in a bit. I would drive but feel iffy still, so wont risk it. I have no idea if these people are drinkers or not, but they are meeting early. I'm going to join them at the restaurant later. Going to have an AF beer and leave early. Just don't want to come across as rude. Not feeling up to socialising with new people!

And now I'm convinced I've damaged my body by drinking so much last night.

Sid thanks you for your kind words @WorkMess2025 and @endlesswashing - he sends hearty wags back.

Apologies to all non-Sid-or-dogs-generally-fans. He doesn't pop up all the time - he's supposed to be found below decks on cabin boy duties (generally swabbing the timbers) or his other role of powder monkey (topping up the cannons). He'd prefer to be up in the crows' next, but he's nervous of the beaks...

Sid is my reason for staying sober. His late predecessor had a few very miserable years with me at my worst, which she unfailingly bore with patience, affection and tolerance. It pierced my soul. She never offered any reproach, but it could not continue for so many reasons. But she was the best - she deserved better than drunk me - and so I sobered up for her. It was hard, but she was worth it She came to almost every SMART meeting with me and was at my side throughout. I succeeded for her. Very sadly she died very quickly and unexpectedly about three months after I was finally discharged from the NHS Inclusion recovery support service (rat-b~st~rd pancreatic cancer). It was about two years later that Sid (not his actual name) came into my life. And he too is most certainly worth staying sober for. I have slipped since having him a few times - bless him, he has borne it with tolerance and unique understanding. But the sorrowful look in his eyes when I have let him down (again) is almost more than I can bear.

On one of the older incarnations of this thread, I posted much of the above, along with a picture of him. Quite a few people responded to the picture in lovely ways. I think lovely @WendyWagon was Captain on the Bridge at the time - it was she that suggested that we had perhaps found our thread mascot and gave him his thread-name "Sober Sisters Sid". So Sid he is in these here waters. He always knows where the lifejackets are. I find that if I don't feel like staying sober for me - then I should look instead into his big, soulful, trusting brown eyes and do it for him. He doesn't deserve drunk me and is the best reason I have to stay true. A few other people over the months since Sid's debut have been kind enough to share that they didn't want to let him down either and so didn't have a drink that evening. That brought warmth to my heart and a wag to Sid's tail. He understand enough IRL to know that he makes some people very happy, and that's all he asks of life. That, and being allowed to stream episodes of "Police Interceptors" on his laptop. 🙄😉

So sincere apologies to you - and thank you for your forbearance - if you find Sid irksome and not at all your cup of tea. We understand, love and appreciate you too. ❤️ Although, if you ever have a cup of gravy you don't fancy, he knows someone who'd be happy to take it off your hands... x

Strength and courage. It's going to be alright. x

@FabledLands - hope you get on OK at the restaurant. Your plan sounds like a good one. I like AF beer. I'm sure you won't come across as rude. Remember too that you don't owe anyone an explanation or justification as to why you're not choosing an alcoholic drink. "No thanks" is a complete sentence. It shouldn't be a problem. Some people can be odd about this, and almost take it personally if you decline - that's a them problem, not a you problem. I've almost never had an alcoholic drink when out (at home alone therein lies the danger for me), and firmly asserting "just an AF Peroni" or "orange juice and lemonade" without fanfare or debate hasn't caused any issues.

The body is good at repairing itself. There are plenty of better-informed people than me on the thread about the body's resilience and ability to recover. At the moment, you're doing the best that you can - and that's bl~~dy brilliant. xx

Evening all! Weekend going well so far. DH was away last week and got back last night, which is when we'd usually open a bottle.of red and put the world to rights! He ended up having a tea while I had 0% 'wine' (v nice!) Then just chilling out with DH and DS today. Just been for a run. So much more heads pace and patience with DS,. Why didnt I do this years ago!!

Oh @REP22, thank you for sharing that and I am so sorry for your loss. Sid has wise little eyes that tell such stories and it's beyond a pleasure to see him on here! What a wonderful reason to succeed. He deserves all of the police interceptors! (I watched every early morning rerun in the depths of post partum life).

I have achieved another sober day over here. I made it around Sainsburys without diverting which felt really hard at the time. I just kept thinking about this tread and the way I'd feel come tomorrow. I've got a delicious dinner, a nice glass of squash and I'm ready for this week's casualty.

Happy weekend to you all.

Oh so sorry @REP22 just seen your news.

Ah @ElizabethBennetsFineEyes , because we live on a drunk planet, where alcohol is put on a pedestal, and we don’t know any better. From an early age we’re shown that alcohol is what it means to be grown up, and is the best way to celebrate our highs and deal with our lows.

In “Alcohol lied to me” by Craig Beck (one of the first quit lit books I ever read) he describes us as mice on a trap - alcohol is the cheese, and we love it, but at some point (if we drink large enough quantities for long enough) the trap will spring and we will be trapped in an unhealthy relationship with alcohol. For those who manage to escape the trap, we see our friends still there, and we really hope they put the cheese down before it’s too late ….

@REP22 I love seeing Sid. I also find that the dogs are one of the things that make life worth living! And he’s a particularly gorgeous one.