Sober 12 years next month. I had afib attack two years ago which I control with meds. I stay hydrated, get enough sleep, avoid caffeine and of course, alcohol. I’m supposed to limit outdoor activity in extreme heat as well. Today I put it to the test and worked outside for 5 hours with lots of water and rest beaks. Afterwards I’m feeling “like a man” again. The old familiar tug of celebrating with a beer is calling me. Realizing I can’t any more has turned elation to depression and now I want to get trashed. Really ripped. I won’t, but I want to. Anyone relate? 
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Congrats on 12 years sober.
I feel ya- I struggle with the idea of finding ways to celebrate without alcohol.
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What do you do? I know this will pass. I’m listening to music very loud and trying to shake the demons.
Congratulations on 12 years David! I definitely have struggled with that feeling of wanting to “celebrate” with a drink. One of my favorite sober ways to celebrate now is to have a fun homemade mocktail or a premade mocktail like curious elixirs. Having something special to drink kinda gets me in that celebratory mood and sets the day apart from the regular days. Or sometimes I will take myself out to eat at a nice restaurant and drink something fun there.
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Yeah, I drink non alcoholic beer. I love the taste of beer, so it’s my treat. Sometimes you just crave that “escape” though.
Good job .keep it up .you are worth it.!!!!!!!!!
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Nice, me too! What’s your favorite NA brewery? I really like Athletics and Gruvi. I totally understand the want to escape, I feel it sometimes too. I usually end up reading when I’m feeling that, it’s my alternative escape.
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There is a good NA IPA I just picked up recently at the supermarket. Can’t remember the name of it now. Nice to see the beer market expanding on NA beers now.
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Yes! I totally agree! I like all the variety!
I can totally relate. I have been on disability for 17yrs. I miss the strength I used to have. I also miss hiking, fishing, camping, hunting, and in general being able to just...go. every once in a while I feel my healthy self come back. It is for only a moment and I have to remind myself it is an illusion. Remind yourself that if you fall for the mirage of youth and reliving the past it will come back to bite you.
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12 years is phenomenal
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