LogFAQs > #966229779

DrizztLink posted...

It'll do that, the bastard.

I once went on a major relapse bender because I drank one mouthful of black cherry soda and it reminded me of 99 Black Cherry.

Damn.

I was really worried about that for a long time but once I got into the groove of things, tastes and smells stopped bothering me so much. I actually have had a few NA beers and hop flavored sparkling waters without much issue, other than the exorbitant prices. Turns out all that money I spent on "upscale" alcohol really was just for the drunkening because I have a hard time justify buying it for taste

DespondentDeity posted...

Hey man thats awesome to hear. If Im reading that right, I quit for the same reason.

How would you say that maintaining sobriety has impacted your ability to find fulfillment in life?

I'm finally starting to get out of my own way, and not just because I don't have to deal with the fallout of drinking. I know myself better than ever and have a very clear and comprehensive assessment of my abilities and limitations. Some barriers have fallen and I've been rewarded for getting out of my comfort zone while I've had to put up new fences and accept that some things just aren't for me. I no longer beat myself up or cause turmoil by aspiring to obvious dead ends. Frees up the mind quite a bit and lets me put my best foot forward.

whitelytning posted...

Good for you man. Keep at it.

Was there an incident that made for stop?

Did you try prior to this time?

I have a friend that is going through this and has been sober for about a year now. Whats the best way to help?

Thanks.

I don't think I can be too detailed but in short, the depressive effects of alcohol became unbearable and I almost made an extremely permanent choice the morning after my last night out partying. Freaked me the fuck out and I knew I had to change, and soon.

I quit for a few months in 2018, then quit and relapsed monthly throughout the first half of 2019.

The r/stopdrinking subreddit was a tremendous boon for me. The book "This Naked Mind" by Annie Grace was very important for me. I also went to AA for a bit, which was a good starting point but not something I stuck with long term. A few of the first six steps were very revelatory for me though.