Hi guys, don't worry about any perceived failured, all of these situations are valuable learning experiences. Flowertop, you very accurately pin-pointed when and where it went wrong last night so that's a major step forward. Did you have wine in the house? I think no matter how strong our resolve, if we want to give ourselves the best chance possible we have to remove all temptation. There's not point in testing yourself like this, because life inevitably throws things up that will be stressful, and will need to be dealt with.
So, what about tonight then? For those who've has had a few days sober in a rows have you found it easier after each day? What's feels better and what feels worse? I think I was surprised at how long it took for my sleeping pattern to settle, I've always had problems sleeping so it's just something I have to accept. Talking to a medical professional put my mind at rest with this. He said that a couple of hours natural sleep a night is far superior to 8 or 10 hours of alcohol or chemical induced sleep. One of the best things though was actually waking up and feeling so relieved that I could remember the night before.
Glowwormish - here's something about knowledge management. Our friend came to help us with it, because we're only a 2 person business it's hard to organise ourselves and our time properly, prioritising and keeping track of which projects we're working on. Most of the tools we use are online 'virtual' management systems, I guess tehy replace the old filing cabinet system. We don;t get it right all the time, but it's easier to keep track and divide the tasks when we have a centralised system to refer to.
Jellibabe, the thing about one to one was kinda what I was asking. I think that's why most people find AA frightening at the beginning. I think initially talking to one person, telling them your deepest, darkest secrets can sometimes pave the way for other sources of support. Again, most drinkers when they're first sober are terrified of interaction, I was convinced I was only able to have a conversation when I was pissed. I had a real self-esteem and confidence issue, which has thankfully improved over time. I remember it well though, and know how drink just seemed to be the panacea for all my issues.
Inpatient detox is generally just that. There are no groups or classes when a patient is detoxing, they'll be on a reducing dose of Librium (usually) for about 5-7 days, which kinda spaces you out. It's really only the very heavy drinkers who need this level of supervision because of the risks of fits and other withdrawals complications. They take blood and just watch you closely. Most of the time, I guess passes in a bit of a blur. Then, there's a 3 week alcohol education course (usually) when the patient is drink free and finished the course of librium. I KNow the also do outpatient detoxes over this way, but it requires a level of self-regulation (taking pills home) so they need to be sure that the patient isn't going to overdose or fit, or whatever.
Before any addictions counsellors or general busybodies jump on me, I'd just like to say that this is in my experience. Anyone else want to chip in with other detox and rehab strategies - or hints and tips - please feel free to do so.