Transforming Your Relationship with Alcohol: A Journey to Wellness

1. Transforming Your Relationship with Alcohol: A Journey to Wellness

If you've ever pondered the question, "Will you go back to drinking?" you're not alone. It's a query that's been on my mind and asked of me frequently, especially in the wake of nearly a year of publicly abstaining from alcohol. So, what's next in this journey that has taken me from spirited celebrations through the festive season into the early days of 2020?

Currently, my stance leans toward the possibility, but it's far from a resounding yes. At times, I sense that some may believe I've gritted my teeth, steadfastly rejecting all offers of alcohol to make a statement, eagerly anticipating the day I can clink glasses and imbibe freely. However, my current perspective paints a different picture.

The path I've trodden this year has brought more gains than losses. While a part of me may yearn to partake in the conviviality of summertime drinking, my memories also serve as a sharp reminder of the consequences of overindulgence – splitting headaches, stomach discomfort, regret, and anxiety.

Rationally, I know that a single drink won't necessarily trigger such discomfort, but the question remains, "Is it worth it?" Most often, the answer is no, as I've discovered other sources of joy, relaxation, and mental relief.

2. Discovering the Misplaced Role of Alcohol

My journey began with introspective notes penned early last year when I confronted what felt like a monumental, life-altering decision. It was then that I realized how erroneously central a role I had assigned to alcohol in my life.

The recurring feeling of unease with my drinking habits and a lack of control over weekend binge-drinking troubled me. In Australia, excessive alcohol consumption is normalized, and no one had ever raised a concern about my drinking, even though it felt like a problem to me.

I was consuming alcohol at least a couple of times a week, indulging in what were, in reality, four standard units of alcohol disguised as two glasses of wine at networking events during the week and often escalating to eight units on weekend nights. This led to weight gain from the excess calories, coupled with snacks I wouldn't have indulged in while sober.

Sleepless 3 am wake-ups were a routine occurrence, fueled by worries about my actions and words after a few drinks. I wasn't alone in these nights of fragmented memories, but often, the regrets and hangovers became humorous anecdotes or were downplayed.

3. The Transformation

When I made the decision to step off this cycle, it raised eyebrows and skepticism initially. However, over time, friends and even strangers, mostly women, began to reach out, expressing their inspiration and asking for guidance on how I accomplished this transformation.

For me, it began with a genuine desire for change, bolstered by commitment and further strengthened by sharing my journey with others. Persistence was key, as I nurtured the belief that I could make this change and remained focused on the positives. I sought wisdom from experts and consulted professionals when necessary. Maintaining a busy and active social life was crucial, which included dancing, networking, attending parties and events, and traveling. I needed alternative sources of joy and release to stave off boredom and resentment.

In the early stages of my journey, I spoke to a counselor who emphasized the importance of setting clear goals and reflecting on them. Change is a gradual process, and having both a reason and the ability to change is vital. I realized that I had both, and this realization was a privilege not everyone shared. So, I had choices to make about the life I wanted to lead.

Chris Raine, the founder of Hello Sunday Morning, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to consider how alcohol aligns with life goals and its relationship with stress. It's common for people to rely on alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress or to unwind after a challenging day. As a helpful exercise, I wrote down the reasons I drank, why I no longer wished to, and my experiences dealing with stress and anxiety without alcohol as a crutch. This practice proved extraordinarily useful in my journey towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.

In conclusion, my journey to reevaluate my relationship with alcohol has been transformative. While the question of returning to drinking remains, the profound benefits I've experienced far outweigh the allure of alcohol. By embracing change, setting clear goals, and seeking support, I've embarked on a path to wellness, leaving behind the negative consequences of excessive alcohol consumption.

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Q&A

Question 1: What is meant by a "relationship with alcohol"?

Answer 1: A "relationship with alcohol" refers to an individual's personal and habitual interactions or associations with alcoholic beverages. It encompasses how and why a person consumes alcohol, as well as the impact it has on their life.

Question 2: What are some different types of relationships people may have with alcohol?

Answer 2: People can have various relationships with alcohol, including:

• Social drinking, where alcohol is consumed in moderation during social events.
• Problematic drinking, which can lead to issues such as alcohol dependence or addiction.
• Abstaining from alcohol entirely, choosing not to consume it.

Question 3: What factors can influence an individual's relationship with alcohol?

Answer 3: An individual's relationship with alcohol can be influenced by factors like personal values, cultural norms, family history, peer influence, mental health, and the presence or absence of a support system. These factors can shape how they approach and interact with alcohol.

Question 4: How can someone assess and potentially improve their relationship with alcohol if they have concerns?

Answer 4: Individuals with concerns about their relationship with alcohol can take the following steps:

• Self-assessment: Reflect on their drinking habits and any negative consequences.
• Seek professional help: Consult with a healthcare provider or addiction specialist for guidance and support.
• Consider treatment options: Explore therapy, counseling, or support groups to address any alcohol-related issues.
• Make lifestyle changes: Modify behavior and routines to create a healthier relationship with alcohol, which may include reducing or abstaining from alcohol altogether.