I've probably been exhibiting alcoholism for 12 years. I've been able to keep it hidden from most people I know, but since I moved in with a romantic partner, it's been more obvious to both me and them. I need to change, and I've been unsuccessful for my entire adult life. It got worse starting in 2020, for obvious reasons.

I'm hesitant to bring this up to doctors. I've heard and read stories about organ transplant recipients being actively rejected (by doctors/social workers refusing to go forward, not in the medical sense of rejection of organ donation) because of expressing tendencies toward mental health issues (suicide, drug addiction). I don't want to tell a doctor or social worker that I'm an alcoholic because there is a built-in stigma against anyone like me. So, I tell them I drink socially.

I want to go to AA, but there's some christianity built into it. It's not something I could tolerate with a straight face, which would impact my recovery. I'm open to suggestions about how I can seek help.

  • RiiiP [he/him, comrade/them]
    ·
    2 years ago

    I've been a heavy binge drinker for about 5 years now and am also trying to quit. I am currently on day 5 of trying to quit myself. I currently am doing it "cold turkey" by just trying to stop altogether, but only because I've read up on the symptoms.

    I have experienced some of the symptoms my self, from waking up sweating, mood swings and restlessness as well as others.

    However, there is a small possibility that alcohol withdrawal can be life threatening. It is very rare and there's a 98-99% chance you won't experience that level of withdrawal, depending on how you choose to quit. So you may need to consult a doctor or have someone with you while you try to quit. Someone who can help you (medically) get help if necessary. Although, you say that you're in America so I'm not sure how much medical treatment/advice might cost.

    If you want to go to AA I would definitely recommend trying and not trying to find reasons before telling yourself why it would be a (possibly) bad option. You won't know for certain if it doesn't help you until you try, and I would also recommend expending all avenues for quitting you have at your disposal (until you find one that sticks).

    All the best in your journey to bettering yourself. :meow-hug: