Soul-crushing bender

First day sober after a 20ish-day bender. I don’t even feel like myself anymore…

Just picked up Holly Whittaker’s ‘Quit Like a Woman’, Claire Pooley’s ‘Sober Diaries’, and Annie Grace’s ‘Control Alcohol’. Looking to renew my resolve to quit for good, but trying to find a method that will work for me (AA is not it).

Any Tips, Books, Podcasts, TedTalks, etc that have helped you?

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I liked “the unexpected joy of being sober” book.

I saw that one—I will get that too. Thanks Greg!

Have u considered re Hab? Take 30 days for ur self if u can. :blush:

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Annie Grace has a program called The Path that I did. Well worth it! It’s the best money I ever spent in my life & I haven’t had any alcohol in over 3 months. I’ve had a total mindset shift & believe it or not, I don’t even miss alcohol. I don’t even like the smell of it anymore. Check it out. She has a blog, newsletter & podcast. You can join her 30 day alcohol experiment for free.
Good luck! She’s the best :blush:

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Why is AA not it? Try a couple of different groups. Not to be harsh, but In my experience, when someone says AA, or any 12 step program for that matter, isn’t for them, it’s because they just aren’t ready to quit.

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I tried AA for 10 years. It did not work. No am a member of the Luckiest Club. It is an online sober community that does not do dogma. They have over 40 meetings a week, book club, photography club, running club, etc. It is literally saving my life. There is also a book called the Luckiest Club, a great read and podcasts. Google it. Recovery is not linear and not one program fits all. Good luck! You will find your niche. Friend me if you would like more information.

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I’ve been there. ‘Soul crushing’ is an excellent prescription. Take the next 24-47 hours to nourish yourself physically. It will take atleast a couple of days to clear your mind of the depression and emptiness and physically feel somewhat normal.
Just commit to staying sober for a couple of days. Once you get past that, start critically assessing what drives you to pick up that first drink (the one you take when you feel good and aren’t physically craving it). I learned -after multiple rehabs and a lot of consequences and loss from my drinking - that I simply cannot put alcohol in my body at all. Not one. It starts the cycle all over again and is worse very, single time. If AA isn’t right for you, that’s okay. Just seek out support and you will find you are not alone in your toxic relationship with alcohol. I remind myself: Alcohol is a drug. Not a refreshment. Period.

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I cannot unfortunately. I have a farm, a family, full time school, a part time job…no way

Also, I found yoga. It takes empty time off of my hands and promotes health. Recovery and yoga kind of go hand-in-hand. Here is a link to a yoga teacher that is IN RECOVERY and her practice is about success over addiction and relapse.

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That’s amazing Rebecca! I will check it out thanks!!

Some good suggestions above. I enjoy a podcast called IGNTD Recovery. They also have several options of recovery programs.

Thanks John but tried it and it just doesn’t jive.

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Thanks Cathy S this sounds great

Also ~ don’t forget compassion for yourself. Radical self compassion is KEY!!! Please don’t beat yourself up!

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Have you considered Vivitrol?

Oh and by the way, Annie Grace’s program called The PATH is no longer a whole year program. Now it’s accelerated … 90 days. Trust me, it works !!!

A sober girl’s guide has been so SO helpful. I follow the account on instagram and that alone has been such a great support. The creator started it because AA was not working for her either, if I’m remembering correctly.

I suggest “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F#ck” by Mark Manson. It’s a fantastic read and an excellent guide for living!!

Try Forest Bathing - go for a walk in the woods and focus on all that nature provides (birds, plants, trees, deer, etc…)

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