I was 13/14 when I had my first drink, me and my mates drinking Sherry we bought from a local ‘beer off’. I’ve never touched Sherry or Port since.
End game – drinking neat, by this time my children began to show disapproval and disgust by taking photos of me crashed out in drink. I needed to admit to myself I had a problem – I couldn’t carry on the way I was going. I went to my local GP who referred me to ADS, I went with my partner for my first visit. From that moment I said to myself that this was the point of no return. The balancing act was over – the booze and the highs of being intoxicated was no match for the good health and improved self-esteem of being sober. I began to feel good about myself again – no deceit, dishonesty, no hangovers, or beer breath the next day. I’ve learnt that alcohol is not the necessity I’ve thought it was for years, but it was something that had become a major problem in my life and if I was to carry on the good life then alcohol would play no part in it.
It helped that I had someone to speak to, guidance. I have enjoyed the process; I’ve embarked on a period of abstinence and attend a weekly group where we share all our thoughts and experiences with alcohol. I am happier now.
GS
Published 20th April 2012
