A Glimpse Into a Few Sobriety Journeys
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Sobrietyis becoming an increasingly popular lifestyle choice.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
What Is Alcohol Use Disorder?
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Furthermore, it isnt uncommon for those whobinge drinkto end up developing alcohol use disorder.
The Voices of Sobriety
Natasha
Natasha firstsought sobrietywhen she was 26 years old.
Getting sober at a young age was difficultshe initially thought hersocial lifewould be over.
I knew I could no longer go on pretending that I had a handle on my drinking.
Getting sober wasnt easy.
There was discomfort, but it ultimately changed her life in big and small ways.
Above all, she found herself confronting parts of herself that shed worked to avoid with alcohol.
Amy
Amy first started drinking alcohol and using drugs when she was 14 years old.
Growing up, she witnessed herparents struggle with alcoholismand hated it.
I tried again in my 30s, but I relapsed as well, she shares.
What helped Amy get sober was the experience of attending a 12-step meeting when she was 20.
She knew there was another way to live, so she pursued the tools of the program.
A gift shes seen in her recovery?
She gets to be truly present for others.
Gabbi
Gabbi found her work, relationships, and finances in disarray.
Theemotional exhaustionand physical discomfort didnt help much, either.
As she found herself in complete desperation, she noticed others around her had found clarity through sobriety.
She noticed these people were sincere, grounded, and authentic.
They followed through on their actions and seemed joyful.
It didnt take long for Gabbi, enticed by the spirit of sobriety, to join them.
Since finding sobriety, she found her life, work, and relationships became much more manageable.
I let go of the shame I was holding onto and found the power of vulnerability, she explains.
I let go of the shame I was holding onto and found the power of vulnerability.
As she reflects on her journey, she urges others to be gentle with themselves.
If yourelapse, keep coming back [to sobriety].
Go back to the practices that you found clarity through.
Youll eventually get it again.
I always recommend two things: at least weekly individual therapy and a support group.
The level of care needed for your sobriety journey is unique to you.
Seeking out anintensive outpatient programmay be another step you take to find lasting recovery.
I always recommend two things: at least weekly individual therapy and a support group.
Dr. Umhau urges folks not to overlook prescription medications likenaltrexoneor acamprosate.
When someone stops drinking alcohol, the brain can begin to experience the alcohol deprivation effect.
This is when the brain struggles to adapt to life without the endorphins from alcohol.
Naltrexone can halt the cycle of binge drinking by reducing the drive to drink and supporting the brain.
Both Kushner and Umhau share the importance of exercise and a nutritious diet.
Finally, dont underestimate the importance of community support and connection.
Recovery programs can be excellent for helping you find like-minded folks who are also working to stay sober.
We turned to the experts for their insight on how one can best support their loved one.
Dr. Umhau recommends learning aboutCommunity Reinforcement Approach to Family Training (CRAFT).
Kushner stresses the importance ofsetting boundariesand seeking out your own help (like therapy or a support group).
Above all, she recommends folks find their own balance ofoffering support while also supporting themselves.
Whether it is you suffering or someone you love, know hope is here and change is always possible.
Let the wisdom of the voices in this article guide you along your way.
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Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing.
Kranzler HR, Soyka M.Diagnosis and pharmacotherapy of alcohol use disorder: a review.JAMA.
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