I am so lost. I started drinking as soon as I got to college, now I’m 44. Over the years, I never had any legal issues or did anything that hurt others or relationships.
The first time I messed something up was on a trip with my fiancé. She forgave me and we eventually married 16 years ago.
My drinking has gotten so much worse. I believe this is the first time I’ve ever craved alcohol.
Now I have young children and drinking is causing my life to fall apart. I’ve been seriously trying to quit for a few months. I go to meetings, I work the steps, but the cravings get to be too much.
I am helpless over this.
My next step is to try an outpatient rehab program. I hope it gets me on the right track.
7 Likes
Good afternoon, I’m currently taking the vivtrol injection monthly and it’s helped me tremendously with the cravings. I truly understand your struggle. Wishing you all the best in your journey to sobriety.
5 Likes
Hoping for the best for you. I know the feeling and experience. My cravings have gone away. If they get strong don’t be afraid to ask for help or just an ear. The craving could be just socialization.
2 Likes
Thank you. I’m glad to hear the vivitrol works for you.
I’m not sure they will prescribe it for me.
On top of my struggles, I’m also dealing with a neurological issue. I have a sharp pain in the side of my head. An MRI found a couple of small white spots. I have to go back in a week for another MRI.
It causes dizziness and nausea. I see that those are two common side effects.
Keep your doctor in the loop. They may have some options for you as well.
2 Likes
That’s going to be a fun conversation. I’ve been lying about my drinking for years. I know I have to come clean though
1 Like
Funny thing about that is I would say your doctor isn't as in the dark as you wanted him.
4 Likes
Good luck. Glad you never had to experience those “Nevers” yet. Take advantage of this blessing. Keep trying. It can be done.
1 Like
I didn’t experience the “nevers” years ago…. But that’s changed over the past few years. Now I can’t drink without blacking-out. I have damaged my marriage to the point where I’m not sure it can be repaired
Honestly, you might want to consider 28 day inpatient treatment. I know. I thought that it was impossible that I could take 28 days out of my life, but it was the best thing I could have done. If things are spinning out on you, take the time out to fix it right. I did IOP and it did virtually nothing for me. Inpatient was the $hit. I hated for at least the first two weeks, but it helped me figure it out. I didn’t have to worry about temptations or triggers or outside stresses. I could just focus on getting better.
Oh and my work was super cool about treatment. People know that you are struggling more than you think they know.
6 Likes
Always can be fixed if you want to put the work in getting sober. Miracles happen when sober. Up to you.
1 Like
I’ve considered inpatient, but it is not possible right now. I have another health issue that I’m dealing with right now and I have to deal with it. It took me months to get in with certain specialists and I’m in the middle of trying to get a diagnosis.
1 Like
That makes sense. It really did do so much for me, Marke. Just keep your mind open to it. The wonderful person that finally talked me into it was an AA friend that I had made. She talked to me during my last relapse. I said that there was no way I could do it. She pointed out that there really was no way I could not do it. My options were were getting thin. I owe my life to that decision.
1 Like
Welcome my friend!
1 Like
I haven’t taken Vivitrol but I know that it has done a lot to help our community - it is definitely worth asking your doctor, Marke. Much love to you!!
1 Like
Hi Marke: I read up above that you black-out frequently. Man, that's so dangerous. Luckily for me, I had good friends take care me most of the time. But one time I blacked out cost me 17 days in the neurosurgery ward. I couldn't defend myself in that situation and someone took advantage of me. I nearly died, and that's not hyperbole! Here's the thing: right now you're in a safe place. You're not in the ER or morgue. Why not check yourself in at a 28-day faculty and really do this?! Sounds like you've got a lot to live for with people, children, family, etc who depend on you. Surrender to the 12 Steps.
2 Likes
Do it now before you waste any more of your life and miss being there for your children. I'm speaking from experience not judging. Best of luck on your journey. Most of us have had many day ones. Don't give up
2 Likes
Hang in there for your kids they need you buddy
1 Like
There’s a pill called naltrexone too it helps with cravings. You’re in the right place if you are in AA get a sponsor and talk to the other people there. They have advice about the cravings and I get it what you’re going through. The cravings do go away. Everything takes time. Just keep coming back
Hang in there if you need any help I am
1 Like