Alcohol Addiction

Recovery starts with admitting you have a problem with alcohol. You don’t have to wait until you hit rock bottom; you can make a change at any time. In the early stages of change, denial is a huge obstacle. Even after admitting you have a drinking problem, you may make excuses and drag your feet. It’s important to acknowledge your ambivalence about stopping drinking.

One of the most important aspects of recovery for a struggling addict

is to have the opportunity to share their story, their life experience. There is human connection on a surprisingly deep level, even though the people in treatment may only see each other for a few days or at a meeting for a few hours. Your Alcohol Addiction stories are important. You are not alone and maybe there is someone who will benefit from you sharing your experience.

“Telling your story is medicine for the spirit and healing for the soul” It is the essence of self that brings others close and creates meaning in life. Something happens when you share your story, especially when you write it down. Writing your story allows you to connect with yourself in the deepest way; you get a chance to know who you are and what you think. It helps bring you out of any kind of denial that you might have going on.

Your story can make a real difference not only to you but to those who hear it or read it. They may be going through the same things and can be influenced in positive ways by it, least of which they will not feel so alone. When you tell your story you receive compassion and understanding from the others struggling in similar ways. It breaks the isolation that you feel and gives you strength to carry on.

While getting sober is an important first step, it is only the beginning of alcohol recovery. Rehab or professional treatment can get you started on the road to recovery, but to stay alcohol-free for the long term, you’ll need to build a new, meaningful life where drinking no longer has a place.

Whether you choose to go to rehab, rely on self-help programs, get therapy, or take a self-directed treatment approach, support is essential. Don’t try to do it alone. Recovering from alcohol addiction is much easier when you have people you can lean on for encouragement, comfort, and guidance. Expect setbacks, alcohol recovery is a process, one that can involve setbacks. Don't give up if you relapse or slip. A drinking relapse doesn't mean you're a failure or that you'll never be able to reach your goal. Each drinking relapse is a opportunity to learn and recommit to sobriety, so you'll be less likely to relapse in the future.

Mariah Shipp - Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist

Journeys Inward Hypnosis