To wish I could drink alcohol? Sometimes

[sandygrapes]

Okay, so over the years, in any social situation, I've noticed people turn to drinks naturally and I end up feeling a bit, erm, 'lost'

Because people who have been drinking and even just getting a bit tipsy, are on a different wave length to someone sober

It always happens. Family. People I meet. My own H is a drinker. I don't drink. So often he is merry and chatty, on that different 'wave' and I am stuck sober

For what it's worth, I am a naturally merry person. I am always smiling etc. I wish I could just look a bit glum as I imagine I look a bit of a twat sometimes grinning from ear to ear walking about but I can't help it

Anyway, AIBU to wish I could drink?

I don't like the taste, except alcopops. Wine gives me a headache. And everything just puts me to sleep after one or 2 max.

I had a meeting up with some SEN mums and it was lovely but I felt really left out (not their fault!), and a bit of an odd bod, when they become tipsy and it's just not the same when you're sat there sober

If you like Alcopops - how about a bar cardi or Maliboo and coke - very similar.

What about things like a white wine spritzer, or a half pint of lager shandy?

Alcohol works on the same bits of the brain as sleeping tablets do - it sounds like you are maybe more sensitive to it than others.

I can understand why you don't want to drink if it makes you tired.

I do think it's partly a mindset thing though - one of the best nights out I had, I was drinking appletise (without the r, it was a long time ago now) all night. I was just in the right frame of mind, was on a natural high and woke up the next day feeling fresh and happy, rather than with any 'beer fear'.

Rather than sit there thinking you are the odd one out, is there anything you can do to change that way of thinking in order to feel more part of it?

Why do some people seem so lively on it then? If it works on the same part of the brain as sleeping tablets etc? I'm not doubting you as I can confirm it's true but strange others seem to be buzzing (the none coke users to clarify!)

I mean, I have had times where I've really enjoyed myself but there's something about someone being pissed. You can't really 'vibe' with them when you're sober, I don't think

I'm not convinced you must have alcohol but I understand what you are saying. Why not jist drink alcopops then? You aren't a drinker so probably only need one or two.

Or start experimenting with sweet cocktails. Or try a vodka orange or rum and coke?

There probably is an alcoholic drink that you will "like", but should you really introduce poison/drug/carcinogen into your life?... Try an Irish coffee or coffee with Baylis or Espresso Martini then.

Maybe give these functional botanicals a try. Alcohol Free Spirits | Non-Alcoholic Drinks | Three Spirit GB – Three Spirit UK (threespiritdrinks.com)
The Livener gives you a natural pep, similar to how your first couple of alcoholic drinks would, but they're just botanical. I find them useful if everyone is drinking and I can't.

I don’t drink for these reasons too.

I’m not teetotal but I probably drink about two units a year. Most alcohol gives me a raging headache and acts like an anaesthetic so I just fall asleep. The only things I can drink in moderation are a small cold beer on a hot day.

I’m going to have a reunion next year with some old school friends and I know I’ll be the only one not having any alcohol. I’ve decided to just buy some nice quality grape juice type drinks and order a lemonade when we go out.

I never feel the odd one out by not drinking though.

Don’t do it, it’s not worth it. I used to be a social drinker but haven’t had a drink in almost 3 years. I thought I wouldn’t have any fun going out with my friends or to parties but I was surprised that I had a blast. It was fun to watch everyone drinking and acting silly while being the sober one. And I still got silly cause it rubbed off on me and I’m silly by nature anyway. Didn’t need one drink and I didn’t miss it at all. Just be your smiley self.

Oops sorry didn’t realise this was an old thread 😬😯