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Northguy1 · 56-60, M
@Mellowgirl No googled or textbook response. I think if you have to self-monitor your alcohol intake to ensure you don't become an alcoholic, you probably are already addicted. Sure, there are textbook definitions that describe addiction and what it looks like, but alcoholism is a self-diagnosis. I've been in recovery now for almost six years and what I found about myself is that it is not natural for me to not have a drink in my hand while I'm socializing. So now, rather than hold an alcoholic beverage, I simply drink a diet soda or water. Remember the old saying: One drink is too many and a thousand is never enough.
Mellowgirl · 31-35, F
@Northguy1 thank you for responding... It wasn't to dig at you. More gain more insight from someone that has had the experience, because surely there must be ways you feel, and situations that trigger you.
I suppose I was looking at it from the perspective of someone not knowing...
I suppose I was looking at it from the perspective of someone not knowing...
Northguy1 · 56-60, M
@Mellowgirl It isn't so much the situations that trigger most; sometimes there isn't a trigger. For me, it is more having learned how to respond to triggers and urges so as not to give into them. Alcohol is cunning, baffling and powerful.
Belladonna · 41-45, F
Belladonna · 41-45, F
@Mellowgirl Oh it's far too late for that. I'm an alcoholic.
therighttothink50 · 56-60, M
Belladonna · 41-45, F
@therighttothink50 Don't tell me what to do.
MarkRichardson · 46-50, M
That's more a guideline for 'healthy' drinking rather than anything else. Alcohol, specific types anyways and in moderation, is good for the body. It's when we go over the top and it is a daily requirement, I think, then it becomes an addiction.
My wife was a heavy drinker from the age of around 14 onwards. That, alongside drugs. But she was what would be defined as a 'functional addict' until, I would say, she hit her 30's. Then it gradually became more and more of an issue and a need.
Those inbetween years I didn't see as addiction. She was fun and happy and enjoying life. Those qualities I didn't necessarily process as being part of the addiction.
But I think they were.
My wife was a heavy drinker from the age of around 14 onwards. That, alongside drugs. But she was what would be defined as a 'functional addict' until, I would say, she hit her 30's. Then it gradually became more and more of an issue and a need.
Those inbetween years I didn't see as addiction. She was fun and happy and enjoying life. Those qualities I didn't necessarily process as being part of the addiction.
But I think they were.
therighttothink50 · 56-60, M
Anything which has an effect on your life in a negative way, something which is consuming your life and causing you to be depressed, angry and or inadequate.
Something which has a negative effect upon the way you treat yourself and others. Something which you require to exist/live and can't do without. Something which takes complete control of your life and creates a life of existence rather than one of living your life to the fullest.
Something which has a negative effect upon the way you treat yourself and others. Something which you require to exist/live and can't do without. Something which takes complete control of your life and creates a life of existence rather than one of living your life to the fullest.
Graylight · 51-55, F
That's actually outdated information, at least in the States. The current wisdom is that 0 drinks per week are safe and that any benefits gained through some alcohols are overshadowed by its damage.
But addiction is about much more than volume. It's about tolerance, craving, trouble in several domains, etc. It's a physical disease whos process can be tracked. I wish it were just about going easy.
But addiction is about much more than volume. It's about tolerance, craving, trouble in several domains, etc. It's a physical disease whos process can be tracked. I wish it were just about going easy.
Mellowgirl · 31-35, F
SW-User
@Mellowgirl Thank you so much for that Mellow.....it's an accomplishment I'm truly proud of. I try to help others the best I can that need it.
Lilnonames · F