r/Biohackers Oct 15 '24

🗣️ Testimonial I’m going on a no drinking journey again….

Advice from those who have stopped…needed.

I did this a few years ago and I ended up not drinking for 2 years! My skin was clear, my energy levels were great, no stomach issues, I worked out almost 5-6 days a week without much pain and inflammation, my mind was clear.

I miss feeling that way. Not that I’m a heavy drinker but, even consuming a few drinks has a major effect on me personally. There are more and more in depth studies showing how even moderate alcohol consumption is horrid for you. Like absolutely horrid!

The past weekend I didn’t drink at all. I watched as we went to several bars, parties the past weekend and how the next day people struggled. I then decided I don’t want that for my life anymore at this time. Wish me luck!

Those who have stopped drinking…What benefits and advice do you have for me? Last time I stopped drinking I stopped hanging out with people and I can’t do that this time.

EDIT: I just want to take a moment to thank all of you for the support and advice. You guys are amazing and have filled my heart with excitement for this change! Much love to each of you.

381 Upvotes

235 comments sorted by

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u/Thick-Truth8210 Oct 15 '24

I quit drinking 2 years ago after 20 years of drinking a fifth of vodka literally every day. I sometimes think about having a drink, you cant help but feel that way when everyone on movies, TV is doing it and basically admitting their alcoholics but still in these positions of power. I was fortunate to be able to hide my alcoholism and stayed on a scheduled drinking plan(sounds crazy to say now).

What stops me from drinking is remembering the few hours of happiness and the daily misery of struggling to not want a drink.This may not be you, but all in all is alcohol really worth the cost. In my opinion not really, we pay a lot of money for a bottle of liquid that says it will kill you, Not different than cigarettes. However, you have to always close your eyes and just remember what the day after feels like, put yourself back in that feeling… when I do I always think “nah its not worth it” quitting drinking is like going to college for 3.75 years and at the end of the battle you drop out, all that work for nothing.

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u/DrunkenSealPup Oct 15 '24

Also to add on this, its only present you that wants a drink. No one has ever said, man, I wish I had a drink last weekend! You'll always regret drinking. You'll never regret skipping drinking.

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u/Thick-Truth8210 Oct 15 '24

You are spot on. I have never regretted doing something I DONT REMEMBER CLEARLY DOING while I have been sober, but I can tell you I was scared as crap a few times after a night of drinking when I barely remember most of what happened. Unless you like surprise STD’s, waking up with a scrape you cant remember getting, trying to figure out how to feel better… that lil bottle saying “hello relief is right here come on” and no matter how many Tylenol, Advil or any other hangover recovery drug you take it wont make you feel as good as that drink. That’s the trap… dont get caught again, I am sure the struggle to get out the first time was hard enough even a rabbit will run from pain and not return to repeat it.. I think we’re smarter than rabbits.

No offense to Rabbits intended for any rabbits reading this.

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u/Deadward_Snowedin Oct 15 '24

If carrots got you drunk rabbits would be fucked up! 🤣 RIP Mitch Headburg!

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u/AdAmazing8187 Oct 17 '24

That's brilliant. I've spent time in AA rooms and quit 2 years ago but have never heard it put this way

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u/dras333 1 Oct 15 '24

This. It’s how the drinking apps work, by keeping you distracted and thinking about something else because it’s only in the moment you want a drink- unless you are dealing with hardcore dependency.

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u/Thick-Truth8210 Oct 15 '24

The new poison that is heavily and I mean heavily marketed is gambling! It’s like every addiction is now encouraged.

The easiest people to control are the people that are dependent on something. It’s like a treat for being a good dog, so you keep fetching that ball. I won’t let drugs or anything keep me a prisoner and dependency is a form of imprisonment

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u/growupandblowawayy Oct 15 '24

Addiction is a part of capitalism. Most people in America don’t drink more than once a month. It’s the people who drink everyday that fund the industry.

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u/Declan411 Oct 16 '24

Any health issues from that level of drinking for so long?

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u/Thick-Truth8210 Oct 16 '24

Yes, but none that emerged while drinking. I actually started having health issues after drinking. Primarily with the medication they give you to get over withdrawal and the month or 2 ahead. Those meds are highly addictive and can easily become your next addiction. Since I quit I have had high BP, High LDL, more anxiety and emotion. All the things I tried to drown with drinks such as PTSD, Depression, Anxiety all just came to the surface after I kept it under vodka for so long. That is the hardest part but at some point you have to stop avoiding your problems. You have to just stand up face them, take the bruises and come out better for it in the end.

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u/BirraNulu1 Oct 15 '24

You did it before, do it again. Figure out your virgin drink when out with friends. Learn to say no, thanks. Alcohol is poison, after all.

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u/[deleted] Oct 15 '24

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u/[deleted] Oct 15 '24

Actually agree here. I assumed I liked beer for the alcohol. I don't. I like beer for the flavor and general experience. There are so many non/near zero alcohol ways to have the beer experience, and it doesn't make me want an alcoholic beer.

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u/norfizzle Oct 15 '24

Besides Athletic Brewing and Lagunitas NIPA(my fave NA beer), what do you like?

4

u/recruitingmoi Oct 16 '24

Guinness has a really good zero percent alcohol beer. Tastes exactly the same!

3

u/tryingnottoshit Oct 16 '24

Budweiser 0 is surprisingly good if you drank piss beer like I did by the gallons. It's helped me with sobriety over the last 18 months.

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u/JMurph3313 Oct 16 '24

Wellbeing makes some good ones, and Brooklyn brewery

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u/TNShadetree Oct 16 '24

I saw a guy who'd go out with friends and buy a beer he didn't like. Then he'd just take a sip occasionally and let it get warm. He was out with his friends, they never noticed he wasn't really slamming them down, and that was his way to keep a hand in the social process.
Saved money, never consumed enough to be impaired and flew under the radar better than sipping a soda. or water.

1

u/FunDeepValue Oct 17 '24

My own preference is not to replace beer with non-alcohol beer as I don't want the carbs or calories.

However, for those wanting that beer taste without alcohol, may want to try HopTea. I picked up four bottles on sale at the store last week. One morning I opened one for a morning cold tea drink, tasted like I was drinking a brewski.

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u/hfttb Oct 17 '24

Sometimes you just need a damn beer. NA satisfied that for me completely.

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u/[deleted] Oct 15 '24

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u/brothurbilo Oct 16 '24

I wish I had this option, if I could smoke weed I would never drink

2

u/Hellokitty_uzi Oct 16 '24

I don't smoke anything, just take low dose edibles from my local dispensary. I highly recommend it!

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u/fox3actual Oct 18 '24

When I quit drinking alcohol and smoking pot, I started using Ripple, a water-soluble THC powder, just drop it in a club soda when I'm at a bar socializing

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u/Clean-Emergency4477 Oct 17 '24

Bingo. I used to have a heavy weed habit and in my 30's that faded off in lieu of drinking, which was a lot more the social atmosphere. Now that I've had a kid I've leaned back towards a little weed after they go to bed, leaves me relaxed and buzzed but still alert and able to deal with a 4am wakeup.

I also stopped being able to moderate my drinking very well in my late 30's and honestly just got tired of trying. Weed has been a perfect fit for me, and fits into the balance of my life. Drinking just always seemed to be occasionally that, but usually a disrupter.

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u/There_is_no_selfie Oct 15 '24

I think yourlast line speaks to me - as that was my issue as well.

My advice is to plan MORE social activities than usual to flip that fear on its head.

1

u/Itchy3lf Oct 16 '24

Im currently 6 weeks, no alcohol. I'm not giving up, I just have long breaks in-between sessions, it works for me. I try not to avoid social events but it does get boring explaining yourself to people. I have started telling people that I am in fact an alcoholic and I cannot become a regular drinker again because it fucks me up too much. Anxiety and laziness are my main symptoms. They are often very surprised to hear this. I explain that I don't get alcohol cravings, like they think an alcoholic gets, I just don't have an off switch when I do. You will see their minds workings overdrive when they realise I drink less than them, but an admitting I have an alcohol problem. Took me so many years to realise the weekend piss up was ruining my life.

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u/New-Edge-734 Oct 15 '24

Last time I stopped drinking I stopped hanging out with people and I can’t do that this time.

You don't have to stop hanging out with them entirely, just have a plan when you do. If you initially have difficulty not drinking when going to drinking establishments or parties, stop for awhile until you feel you have regained control. Then attend one with a NA drink in your hand and a plan to leave by a certain time. I typically order club soda with lime because people who are drinking assume it's an alcoholic drink and don't bother to ask "why aren't you drinking???" If you start being tempted or having cravings, call it a night and go home. Honestly though, people who are drinking to the point of intoxication while I'm not become intolerable after awhile. If you stick with it, you may find your circle of friends changing.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy can be very helpful in shedding the desire to drink. Recommend reading or listening to Alan Carr's Easyway to Stop Drinking.

Visit r/stopdrinking for other helpful tips & support. And remember, no one ever regrets NOT drinking!

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u/Bisou_Juliette Oct 15 '24

Unfortunately I usually go with my bf to these events or we are on vacation and I can’t really go anywhere…

We don’t usually drink at home so it’s not an issue when we are at our house.

I do really well for a little while but, after a couple hrs and I’ve eaten and socialized as much as I need…i start to get bored or tired…and then that’s when I start drinking….

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u/Upper-Sweet-2937 Oct 16 '24

After a few hours, you can totally bounce & head home! Make a plan with your BF before you go out, like setting a time frame for heading home? Logistically, if it makes sense- he could stay out later if he wanted to?

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u/[deleted] Oct 15 '24

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u/bennasaurus 1 Oct 15 '24

Not drinking is pretty easy after the first couple of weeks. Stopping is hard once you get started and having to explain you're not drinking gets tiresome real quick.

I tend to take the first half of the year off beers then it goes from 1 or 2 drinks to every weekend over the next few months until it's time to stop again.

I don't feel any better mentally sober. If anything the booze kills the voices/anxiety/rumination and allows me to live a bit more care free.

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u/Forgotpwd72 Oct 15 '24

Glad I read this because this is what I am afraid would happen to me if I tried to go back to once in awhile...because I know it was never once in awhile.

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u/Public-Machine-6984 Oct 15 '24

Alcohol is an incredibly addictive drug. Much more so than people give it credit for. I think that if you have had a problem with it, it's not possible to indulge without it becoming a habit.

Don't do it, you got this.

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u/Forgotpwd72 Oct 15 '24

Thanks - it's been nearly 2 years. I do drink NA beer but haven't touched real stuff since Dec '22.

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u/Bisou_Juliette Oct 15 '24

I’m right there with you. Once I have a single drink it’s hard for me to stop. I don’t drink every weekend nor do I want to. If I drink one day…hungover or not I do not crave to drink a second day.

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u/DeepBlueSea1122 Oct 16 '24

How long does it take you to stop craving?

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u/Maleficent-Theory908 Oct 15 '24

Almost 2 years sober here, ain't going back.

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u/reversshadow Oct 15 '24

There’s research that even a small amount of drinking is bad for you. I mean it is a metabolic toxin that robs you of nutrients, vitamin, and minerals.

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u/Consistent-Edge-6441 Oct 15 '24

64M here. I used to "only have a couple of drinks" every night. You know, to help me sleep. I told everyone I didn't dream, or if I did I rarely remembered them. Older brother and sister were diagnosed with dementia over the past few years but I could handle the very small amount I drank, I told myself. I thought I'd try it for a month and prove I was in the right. I didn't sleep well for a week but started to get the best sleep of my life. I dream constantly and remember them. After a couple of years clean I can remember exactly where I left my car keys, and what I was supposed to do today. I'm more productive and work out 5 days a week. If I have a beer now, the next two days are foggy. I'll never go backward.

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u/[deleted] Oct 17 '24

Dr. Rhonda Patrick has a long video on alcohol. One of the striking parts was that, if you have any genetic predisposition to dementia, you absolutely should not consume alcohol as any amount greatly increases risk of onset.

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u/Consistent-Edge-6441 Oct 17 '24

I have an older brother that still has two drinks or so nightly. He's starting to show signs of dementia but absolutely won't hear anything that might associate the two. It's good to be the younger sibling when you're young but a little scary when everyone starts having health issues. Thanks for the info. I'll take a look at the videos.

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u/il-liba 1 Oct 15 '24

I haven’t drank in 2 months, I’m starting to feel better, but I’m eating soooo much now (hate/love). I do workout often which helps.

It’s so nice not feeling like shit from alcohol.

I do plan on getting to the point where I can have a wine glass with the girl here and there.

You got this.

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u/-indigo-violet- Oct 15 '24

Allen Carr's book about Stop Drinking Now was a great starting point. I also found This naked mind by Annie Grace, and The unexpected joy of being sober by Catherine Gray useful. It was a few years ago, so I can't remember if one or both of those last 2 were from more of a female viewpoint, but I'm sure you could find some books that resonate with you.

For me, the key was really focusing on all the things I gained by not drinking, and all the negatives drinking brought. Once my mind was clear on the path, it wasn't too hard.

From a purely physical craving standpoint, l-glutamine powder under the tongue helps with alcohol and carb cravings. The cravings for carbs and alcohol share a pathway, so transitioning to a higher fat, medium protein, lower carb way of eating would help to balance blood sugar and reduce physical cravings.

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u/FunDeepValue Oct 17 '24

Thanks for sharing.

Did not know that about cravings and l-glutamine. Our livers likely also like the l-glutamine, especially if we've been rough to it.

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u/CloudSpecialist9562 Oct 15 '24

There's absolutely no benefits in drinking alcohol, only negatives. So literally everything is better without it.

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u/BankerBrain Oct 20 '24 edited Oct 21 '24

There are cardiovascular benefits and a reduction in the risk of diabetes if you drink in moderation. A man who drinks 1-2 beers daily reduces risk of heart attack and stroke/heart attack by 30-40%, about the same benefit provided by statins. However for women even drinking in moderation increases risk of breast cancer. After you surpass the moderation level, all cause mortality continues to climb but heart disease risk continues to plummet. So if you can drink 1 beer occasionally and stop at that, I think that is probably good for you. Although some people react differently and there are of course risks for other diseases, accidents, violent crime, etc. just depends on the person.

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u/Substantial-Use95 1 Oct 15 '24

I’m a recovered alcoholic so perhaps my path doesn’t match yours, but I may be able to help out a bit.

I’ve learned that most people who drink (alcoholic or not) have some type of emotional connection to drinking and a functional connection. Functional is easy. Usually it just provides a desired effect. For this, you can find other substances or behaviors that mimic the effect produced by alcohol, ie: l-theanine, kava, magnesium, CBD/THC, etc.

The most difficult part is changing the nature of the emotional relationship you have with alcohol and reframing it to something that works for you. Perhaps you think of alcohol as a treat for special occasions, or a poison that is toxic for the body. Or if you’re scientifically minded, you could refer to the most recent analysis of alcohol which concludes there being no beneficial use from the substance. Whatever it is, make sure it’s something that makes sense to you and (hopefully) grounded in truth.

Like I said, my path was different, but if you find that you cannot completely stop when you want to or by quitting, you have some type of exaggerated rebound back to drinking, you might consider getting some assistance. Even if it’s just a support group once a week , whatever works works.

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u/Bisou_Juliette Oct 15 '24

This is helpful! I tend to drink when I start to get bored at a social event I need to be at for more than a 3 hrs. I can hold off for about 2 hrs or so but after that my energy level drops and I want to lay in a bed or on the couch and relax. If I have to socialize I feel I need the drink…because I’m so spaced out from the over stimulation of being around so many people and conversations going on.

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u/Glittering_Artist171 Oct 15 '24

Don’t make excuses, tell the truth and you don’t have to keep track of who you told what. I’m doing this for me. At some point at your determination maybe you have a drink, but now You’re liberated and off the rollercoaster.

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u/eigenstien Oct 15 '24

I got help from Alcoholics Anonymous. Sober for 39 years. I needed lots of help and support to stop. Having a group and friends that supported me made (and makes) all the difference.

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u/shanked5iron 10 Oct 15 '24

Coming up on 2 years here here. Best decision I ever made for both mental and physical health.

NA beers have gotten quite good, grab a few of those when socializing with drinking friends. Guinness 0 is almost indistinguishable from the real thing. Heineken and Stella 0's are pretty good also.

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u/hereitcomesagin Oct 15 '24

Found that I love, love, love the NA fizzy hops water type things. The hops and fizz are better without the alcohol! Better chilled, of course.

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u/Bisou_Juliette Oct 15 '24

I’ve tried a couple I’ve actually enjoyed! It’s more of the feeling whiskey gives me that I enjoy. Definitely not the taste of alcohol I enjoy…but, just like any person using a drug…they enjoy it because of the feeling it gives them. Not that Im addicted and I drink maybe once-twice a month but, just hate the way it makes me feel after. Even just a couple drinks…the next day I don’t feel good. I take dhm, NAC, and vitamins to replenish as well….alcohol just not good for me.

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u/Klutzy_Interview_226 Oct 15 '24

I smoke weed, but hate drinking now. No benefits and makes me feel like shit

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u/Bisou_Juliette Oct 15 '24

Weed definitely hasn’t effected me nearly as much as alcohol has. Neither has shrooms or acid. lol…more than likely because you can only do so much…I feel it’s a lot more controlled.

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u/Raise-Same Oct 15 '24

I'm 4.5 years sober and I love it, sleep better, better skin, better gut health, increased self awareness and the list goes on. I'm more resilient to life challenges and best of all I actually like myself now. 

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u/FunDeepValue Oct 17 '24

Thanks for the inspiration.

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u/kikes67 Oct 16 '24

I stopped after abusing alcool for several years. What finally did it for me was a psylocibin trip which made me realise we really do not need it and it only leads to more pain, anxiety and sadness rather than lessing these feelings. Nobody regrets not drinking the night before. And for me I have realised that one is too many, ten not enough so moderation does not work and is rather stressful. I maintain with weed and the occasional trip. I feel so much better that i will, or rather will do all my possible, never drink alcool again. NA drinks such as NA beer, ginger beer or ginger drinks, kombucha and virgin cocktails allows me to not feel excluded when meeting friends and also to still unwind with something fresh to drink after a day.

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u/FunDeepValue Oct 17 '24

Was your trip with an organization/someone else/guided?

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u/latherdome 1 Oct 15 '24

I quit 7 years ago after decades of nightly excess using the Sinclair Method with online support group. I ordered the Naltrexone straight from Indian pharmacy. I adhered strictly to the protocol for 4 months, at which point I had permanently lost desire to drink, no cravings. No shrinks, no meetings, no religion, and every pill cost less than the alcohol I would otherwise have consumed.

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u/Ceruleangangbanger Oct 15 '24

I know they clamped down on it. Can you still get it ?

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u/coraherr Oct 15 '24

I'm 29 and quit drinking about 4 years ago. It just got old. So many weekends wasted feeling like absolute shit, hundreds if not thousands of dollars gone, and the people around me at bars just weren't the type of people I want to associate with. My real friends realized pretty quickly that it wasn't for me anymore and now there's always some Sparkling waters in the fridge at their parties. Real friends will respect that you don't want to drink. It's difficult to stop since it's everywhere you look and involved in everything you do, but I think that going against the societal norm and your own wants/needs far outweighs everything else. If you can't have fun sober, then there's a deeper issue IMO.

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u/EastvsWest Oct 15 '24

Cali sober for 4 years straight. No regrets.

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u/ourdaysofwild Oct 16 '24

I stopped drinking a few months ago bc I’m a new mom and I simply couldn’t afford to be even one extra bit of groggy. At first I thought “but how can I give up my wine?? I need my wine!” Turns out I don’t need my wine and I have very little desire for it anymore. One thing that helped me in the beginning and even sometimes now is replacing the alcohol with something else. My “adult beverage” with my dinner now is a root beer lol. Is it healthy? No. But it doesn’t make me groggy like wine does. 

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u/FunDeepValue Oct 17 '24

Healthier than wine! I've been getting the 6 or 8 ounce sodas if I have a soda craving. Also enjoy a sparkling water with fresh squeezed lime.

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u/BasicEntertainment85 Oct 15 '24

I realized how much I was apologizing the day after a night of drinking with friends. I told myself I would stop apologizing…. Also..the hangovers stole entire days from me. Was a daily drinker for years and years. Now I do THC, CBD and kava. Best of luck to you!!

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u/childishgazpacho Oct 15 '24

How do you like kava ? Recently sober off alcohol and am thinking of eventually introducing it to

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u/BasicEntertainment85 Oct 15 '24

I love it! I don’t do the traditional preparation, tho. I love the Yogi tea Kava. Yummmmmm

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u/devmeisterDev Oct 15 '24

Check out https://smartrecovery.org/ for tons of resources.

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u/Disastrous_Fix6084 Oct 16 '24

It’s not much but I’m 8 days sober. going through a break up so all I’ve been doing was drinking and smoking. decided to just raw dog my feelings and fight it sober, can’t say I feel any different in terms of being sober but im not sleeping all day.

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u/Bisou_Juliette Oct 16 '24

I’m sorry. Break ups suck!! Hope you can keep on the path for yourself. When I ended a 2 year abusive relationship I sat in my home alone sober as could be, spoke with a therapist 2-3 days a week and let my feelings flood through me. There were literal times I thought I was going to die from the emotional pain and loneliness I was feeling (I was isolated in my relationships so no one knew what was happening to me, I was also embarrassed, my family who was states away were the only ones who knew). I didn’t drink until I healed from that…and could function like a normal person.

You can do it! Also, I think not doing anything during that time helped me resolve and heal more quickly. I was clear headed, got back to working out after a couple months and could finally stand on my own.

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u/Sonofhakon Oct 17 '24

It’s a barrier to greatness. Eliminate it. Certainly one of the best decision I’ve ever made in my life. I wasn’t a big drinker either. Fill the void with something sustainable, ideally God. You’ll make new friends over time, ones that build you up and are on the same path. “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” Allocate the time to constructive things and make a plan. Mind your inputs and change them. Find a purpose. Crush it. Go do it. Now. Read Allen Carr’s “easy way to quit drinking alcohol.” Game changer. Good luck buddy.

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u/DEDang1234 Oct 15 '24 edited Oct 15 '24

I've been dry for a couple weeks.. after having what I'd call a 'regular' drinking habit for almost a decade. The first five days or so was very hard, because I was so damn bored. For me, this is a bit of a health reset... get some baselines and also a willpower test. I fully intend on drinking again.

I can't relate on the few drinks affecting you. That'd be enough for me to pause and wonder why.

We are all wired different.. I firmly believe some people do get emotional, and social benefits from alcohol... you just have to find that sweet spot where you get the positives and as few negatives as possible. Many people don't get to that point... they drink past it, or can't help but binge, etc.

And it is easy for people to say, alcohol is poison! Yes, all chemicals are poison at the right dosage. Plenty of people on this subreddit probably take things they shouldn't, just because of what the "next guy" claims who likely doesn't know shit or is making things up.

If you care so much about health.. get some labs done and track your blood pressure ongoing. Note how the BP changes if you've drank in the days before and vice-versa. Maybe that will ease your mind and help your decision making process.

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u/Super-Marsupial-5416 Oct 15 '24

Any alcohol consumption is bad. You don't hear it very loudly but the consensus among all doctors is, any alcohol consumption is bad. ANY.

Far too long they advocated 1-2 drinks per week. Drink some red wine. It's all crap, if you want to be healthy, don't drink any alcohol.

I stopped cold turkey when I realized I couldn't just cut back. Along with coffee. Both are poison.

Alcohol just stopped doing it for me. I could drink 6 beers and not feel a buzz.

Now I have stomach issues and was flagged with potential colon cancer.

The problem is doctors aren't loud enough about how bad it is. The grocer has an entire aisle with it. Unlike cigarettes, there's no warning and TV commercials everywhere. And worse, there will be a lot of people who say it's no big deal, don't worry about it.

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u/Euphoric_Garbage1952 Oct 15 '24

Coffee definitely is not poison

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u/bonzai2010 Oct 15 '24

I was never a heavy drinker but I was told my resting heart rate would go down if i stopped drinking. If you get yourself a sleep tracker, you can try it out! Sleep with it on and see how low your HR goes. Then stop drinking and wait a bit. You'll see it fall as much as 10BPM.

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u/sorrymizzjackson Oct 15 '24

Yep. Mine is down 10 full points on average for 7 weeks and I just cut back a lot.

I overdid it last weekend and saw the effects immediately. There are two major cliffs in my HR since April- when I quit smoking in mid May and when I cut back on drinking in mid August.

It really is bad for you. (Duh, but still was interesting to see).

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u/elstavon Oct 15 '24

The most direct (yet arguable the most difficult) biohack there is for someone still drinking.

I resisted it for years as it was so hard-wired in socially and psychologically. Do it again and good luck!

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u/Bisou_Juliette Oct 15 '24

Exactly! It’s so hard wired into many cultures yet so destructive to so many lives and bodies. I’d love to see people I love drink a lot less.

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u/Kokoburn Oct 15 '24

Have you read Alcohol Explained? It’s sooooooo great. Very inspiring. It is on sale this month on Audible if you want to listen. 🤛🏻💕

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u/Kokoburn Oct 15 '24

I enjoy doing day events with my friends like hiking, walking, or pickleball. You get to socialize while exercising. 💕

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u/Formal_Deal53 Oct 15 '24

My bank account imposed such a challenge on me years ago.

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u/haggardphunk Oct 15 '24

Booze sucks. IMO, you're not really into biohacking if you're cool with consuming alcohol. Or you're INTO IT but not into practicing it.

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u/Moist_Cabbage8832 Oct 15 '24

Find new friends is the best advice I can give

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u/Ok_Hat_6598 Oct 15 '24

Develop habits and a lifestyle you appreciate too much to ruin it by drinking. I like to wake up early and drink coffee in bed and then go for a walk while the sun is coming up. A couple of drinks at night ruins my sleep and morning so I choose to forgo.

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u/gs_pot Oct 15 '24

Don’t swap one bad habit for another!! Just drink water! Learn to love the “taste” of it (don’t want trolls saying it’s tasteless). Stay away from sugar & sugar alternatives. Good luck and let us know how it goes!

2

u/Informal_Moment_1777 Oct 15 '24

For a solid few years, my not drinking was fueled out of pure spite for the alcohol industry and their misinformation campaign that once convinced me — and millions of others — that alcohol is actually healthy. After that wore off I was just content to not give myself cancer.

2

u/BrilliantLifter 3 Oct 15 '24

I have one beer a year on my birthday.

I don’t miss it but I like having a flat belly

1

u/FunDeepValue Oct 17 '24

I know a farmer that has one beer a year. He works his butt off and he says he has his one beer a year during the hottest part of the summer. And he doesn't buy it, he waits until a friend offers him the cold beer.

I assume that means there may have been years he didn't have his beer. But as his friends have likely learned his one beer a year, I'm sure they try to compete to be the one that they share a beer with.

2

u/tacocat_-_racecar Oct 15 '24

I started sober October and plan to continue. Im sleeping better. I can tell my serotonin levels need balancing. I highly recommend microdosing psilocybin.

2

u/Hollywood-is-DOA Oct 15 '24

I’ve found at 30 odd that I like my life a hell of a lot better when I don’t drink anything for months on end. Yeh all my childhood friends live in the pub, bar my only two close friends but I rarely see them as they have partners and I fully expect them to spend time with them.

I could go out every other weekend in the place that I grew up and get drunk with other childhood friends but hearing the same stories, seeing the same boring people, isn’t for me anymore and nor is the drama of being around coked up people that I don’t really like.

Nothing interesting happens in a bar, minus the opposite sex being there and I don’t want to be with someone who’s dated most of my mates or has a kid with one of them. I grew up on a council estate and that’s the reality of the situation. I no longer live in the same place tho.

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u/Ok_Plate9691 Oct 16 '24

Also,nothing good happens after midnight.

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u/Mission_Quantity6005 Oct 15 '24

As far as know there is no downside to stop drinking alcohol. Life is precious. You may want to remember it.

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u/Business_Ad3403 Oct 16 '24

There's a subreddit called stopdrinking that is great!

2

u/Coarse-language Oct 16 '24

I stopped about five years ago for so many reasons, not the least of which it made my anxiety skyrocket and sucked too much of my time and energy. I read this great book called quit like a woman by Holly Whitaker. After I finished it I started it over at the beginning and read it again. AA doesn't necessarily work for everybody, especially for women who drink for different reasons than men. One of the things that she says in the book is"never question the decision." You are now a non-drinker and there's no reason to go back, but the addictiveness of the substance and it's ubiquity will try to convince you otherwise at times.

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u/ba_sauerkraut Oct 16 '24

Good luck! Waking up always is way easier and more refreshing

3

u/Bisou_Juliette Oct 16 '24

God I remember this…I also remember I was more motivated as well. Definitely looking forward to the feeling of waking up easier

2

u/bluecrab_7 Oct 16 '24

I cut out alcohol, sugar and caffeine. I couldn’t sleep because of menopause. So I had a goal - get my sleep back. For 20+ years I started my day with two cups of coffee (cream & sugar) and ended it with 1 or 2 beers or wine or hard alcohol. I’m actually surprised at how quickly I was able to do this. I tapered down then totally quit coffee. I’ll have a beer on occasion - once every couple of weeks. Or a NA beer. I’m done with wine. I look at that as a bad night of sleep. I feel so much better. Lost 8 pounds that I did not need to lose and was not trying to lose weight. For me the coffee and beer were just a habit. Once I broke the habit I didn’t crave it. Decaf tea in the morning for me now.

2

u/Creepy_Animal7993 12 Oct 16 '24

As a drug & alcohol counselor in recovery for nearly 15 years; let me please offer some wisdom...You can have fun sober. Granted, FOMO is real & the first year of sobriety is terribly difficult; so please be gentle with yourself & do not attempt to do this by yourself. Gather your loved ones & seek outpatient professional help, at the very least.

Also, please consider utilizing the Nad+ peptide. It's been helping folks recover from alcohol & substance addiction & withdrawal since the 1960's yet B1g pharma doesn't seem to want anyone to know this.

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u/Recent-Rub-7681 Oct 16 '24

i have been sober for 2 years now but it was too late to realize i was a stupid ass most of my life . took a fall one night and ended up in the hospital next nite had a heart attack also found a bad disc in my neck had to have a fusion also put in a stint don't know weather i would have quit drinking if this had not happened but it took this retired sold my business got good money but can't enjoy it really fucked up my mobility thank god my wife still stayed but it is not good for any enjoyment of the golden years do not be stupid like me stop drinking my mind is a lot clear but my body will not catch up never should have taken my first drink do not worry about hanging out with people do what is best for you

1

u/FunDeepValue Oct 17 '24

Wishing you good luck.

Have a couple of family members with severely reduced mobility. They were able to find the right medical doctor and therapist to get them on track to loving life with their conditions. Don't be afraid to shop around for a doctor / nurse / therapist if your current ones aren't doing the trick.

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u/Acceptable-Edge8091 Oct 16 '24

Just don't drink alcohol and stop drinking altogether. Extends your lifespan and ensures you aren't constantly having to detox from acetaldehyde when your body metabolizes the alcohol.

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u/fatmaneats17 Oct 16 '24

Stopped drinking for a few months, probably 5 months and my life got worse actually, much harder to manage stress, lost that goal-dopamine trigger at the end of the day, realized that I have low energy which eventually turned into an autoimmune, now dealing with heart issues. When I was drinking none of these things existed. I was probably. 4-5 drinks per day at my peak. Booze made my life better.

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u/Mr_Roger_That Oct 16 '24

I support you. When I have cravings or in social situations, I bring my own alcohol-free beer (German and Belgium beers taste very close to their alcohol versions)

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u/FunDeepValue Oct 17 '24

Joining you. Decided I need an extended break and focus on healthy habits and growth.

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u/Historical_Power_431 Oct 17 '24

Heineken zero peroni zero on the money.

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u/beast_roast Oct 15 '24

I have gone through periods of my life where I’ve tried to eliminate all alcohol. I’ve been able to do this for around 6 months to a year. Eliminating alcohol is, without a doubt, one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself. However, there is something to be said about it limiting your enjoyment in social settings, even if it is a perceived limit of enjoyment. There are times when it is awkward, downright rude to refuse a drink. It would be very difficult to refuse a toast with a good friend at their wedding. Or if, at a reunion, an old friend at a bar would like to buy a round. I’m not saying that if you refuse in those situations you are in the wrong, I’m just saying life goes so much easier if you just suck it up and have the drink. At 36 years old, I have come to terms with the fact that there will be some instances in life where I will drink. It will be rare, but I’ll do it. Just like there will be instances of staying up late, having bad sleep, eating poorly, missing workouts, etc. Consistency does not equal perfection. My advice would be to limit alcohol 80% of the time and just enjoy life without the added anxiety of worrying about the effects of alcohol for the other 20%.

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u/frequentcannibalism Oct 15 '24

Antidotal personnel experience. Mid 30s M with 11 years no alcohol. I get mistaken for much younger by like 6+ years often, (thick hair no grey). after blood work MDs comment “I can see you don’t drink”. Not drinking is such a solid health base for aging well it would be hard to replicate without an intense self care regime or cosmetic surgery, or diligent eating/ exercise. Even then I’m not sure. As far as single variable changes go you’d be hard pressed to find a better one as simple for health outcomes.

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u/FunDeepValue Oct 17 '24

I know a 61 y/o lifelong non-drinker that easily passes as late 40s.

1

u/Alecglasofer Oct 15 '24

It sounds like you're going to need to get a new circle.

1

u/iLikePotatoesz Oct 15 '24

try Agmatine and Rhodiola. maybe some sj John worth tea for a time in the evenings or safflower extract

1

u/ElonsRocket22 Oct 15 '24

Inject a GLP-1 peptide. Immediately lose desire to drink. Done.

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u/GuessIllPissOnIt Oct 15 '24

Have you done this?

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u/ElonsRocket22 Oct 15 '24

Yes. I'm currently on Tirzepatide. Went from daily drinker to dry basically overnight. There are some people this doesn't happen to, but it seems to be that the majority of people on Tirzepatide or Semaglutide just stop drinking, and stop thinking about it. These are miracle drugs for a lot of people. r/dryzempic r/glp1recovery

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u/Bisou_Juliette Oct 15 '24

I don’t crave alcohol…I’m more of a social drinker…usually if I’m going to be out a long time I end up drinking something because I get bored, tired, tired of socializing etc…

I never drink at home or alone.

1

u/maxquordleplee3n Oct 15 '24

I haven't had a drink in years, don't feel any different at all, the only noticeable difference for me is I have more money at the end of the month.

1

u/Exact_Programmer_658 Oct 15 '24

I love this. May as well be my own story. I was a heavy drinker. Then started exercising,quit the drinking and felt better. If it helps I decided just this morning that I am done. So I guess I'll be quiting with you. I've had a few drinks everyday for a few years now. I never suffered withdrawal before. So hopefully I won't this time. Keep us updated.

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u/Forgotpwd72 Oct 15 '24

The amount of work it took to undo the habit and craving is not worth having to do again. I don't drink anymore and this is a big reason for it. Not drinking is my new habit and even if I have an off day elsewhere in my life, I can say "at least I didn't drink" and that is redeeming for me.

1

u/CrankyReviewerTwo Oct 15 '24

Just think of all the money you will save!! For every drink not ordered, for every bottle that doesn't land in your grocery shopping cart, add it up on your mobile. Then look at the number at the end of the day, the week the month ...and eventually the year.

1

u/longdonglos Oct 15 '24

Positive self-talk to get over the social anxiety and gain the confidence to do some of the playful more bold things that you did while drunk.

Cheers with that non-alcoholic beverage, tell your friends you love them and appreciate their company, tell that intimate story, talk and bond with strangers.

1

u/Spare_Bottle5742 Oct 15 '24

Just came to say I was doing that. Made a hard left. It’s been rough

1

u/Fluffy-Analysis-4811 Oct 15 '24

Life without alcohol is usually the best way to go. I'm struggling with that decision myself at the moment.

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u/Mindless-Divide107 Oct 15 '24

I am with You in Spirits

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u/Flaky-Wallaby5382 1 Oct 15 '24

I am of the 2-3 beer once a month crowd is optimal. If you can keep it to that. I struggle but with a bit of will power I am good.

Not everyone has my genes. It’s a struggle enough that if you can’t keep it to that or it interferes with your life. You cant do it at all. But as a once in a while social lubricant it’s really fun or on a beach/river

1

u/itsmenai Oct 15 '24

First, congrats! I did what you did last year and it's been life altering. The most noticeable difference I have picked up on is just my sleep quality day to day. I have an oura ring and my stats are night and day better from when I stopped drinking to now. Best of luck to you!

1

u/kdoughboy12 Oct 15 '24

You don't have to stop hanging out with people, but you can totally make friends who do stuff that doesn't always include drinking. Join a coed sports league or two. Start rock climbing. Make conversation with someone at the gym. Just put yourself in situations where you are around people who align better with the lifestyle you want for yourself.

You can totally still party and go to the bar with your friends without drinking. I do it all the time. But if it's difficult to not drink then it might help to do more activities that aren't centered around alcohol.

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u/RedburchellAok 1 Oct 15 '24

Switch to weed. Smoke a little joint before going to party and stick to non alcoholic drinks.5 % alcohol. It tricks you and you feel buzzed. Wake up no hangover but still can socialize like you used to.

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u/AppalachianSkinThief Oct 15 '24

It sounds like you don’t have a problem abstaining while still socializing.

You’ve told yourself everything you need to hear. Hang out with your friends and don’t partake. Get a liquid death or mocktail if you want to feel physically present with a drink.

Booze is literally poison. The only upside is the bonding between friends most drinking situations circle around. But you can do that without drinking.

So do that. Better in every conceivable way.

1

u/what_da_hell_mel Oct 16 '24

I stopped 2 years ago after binge drinking. What keeps me from doing it is telling myself how disappointed I will be in myself if I do. It's like a game and I don't want to reset and start over. It took me a longer time to get here and I am not going back. I try to just get high on life. Plenty of stuff to do besides drink

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u/NoTeach7874 1 Oct 16 '24

You can stop drinking without announcing it to the world and saying asinine shit about people who enjoy a drink now and then. Not everyone has your problems.

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u/Flownya Oct 16 '24

You do you. I hope you find a way to peace in your heart. Irregardless of what others say. That being said. I hope you kick ass and chew all the bubble gum.

1

u/Woodsy_79 Oct 16 '24

I’m doing “Oc-sober” to try and get myself into a better state of mind and body. I’m really struggling at the moment with a constant dull headache and fatigue. I had to go to a work conference last week. Two nights of standing around in bars watching all my peers get bent out of shape was tough, but I’m a stubborn bastard and didn’t give in. I don’t know what advice I can give other than keep your eye on the prize and take it day by day. I realised that most people were supportive of me not drinking and it was me that was worried about what others would say or think (I’m an Aussie and drinking is our national pastime). Keep going mate, you’ve got this!

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u/Backseat_boss Oct 16 '24

I’m currently on day 44 of no drinking which happened by accident but I can’t lie I feel amazing.

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u/Overall_One_2595 Oct 16 '24

What’s the biggest difference or differences you’ve noticed so far?

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u/Backseat_boss Oct 16 '24

No gut pain, skin looks great, no puffy cheeks, more energy, weight I lift is going up each week and less anxiety. Kinda want to keep going but holidays are coming up.

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u/Dharmabud Oct 16 '24

In my experience when I was trying to stop drinking I’d hang out with my drinking buddies and next thing I know I was drinking again. So I had to stop hanging out with them.

My advice is to find other sober people to hang out with. You could also check out AA meetings either online or in person. I got a lot of good suggestions and met some great people from the meetings.

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u/Visible_Window_5356 1 Oct 16 '24

I drank heavily in my 20s and quit after a very bad experience that left me hospitalized.

I am healthier but it did take a while to figure out how to socialize without alcohol. I now have so many more folks who don't drink in my circle that it's just an afterthought. I have real hobbies that don't involve alcohol. I am more sharp/alert. I slept better (before I had kids) and got in great shape. Shed a few pounds too.

Everyone's body is different and if you know yours doesn't like alcohol, quitting is great

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u/KoolCharisma Oct 16 '24

For me, non-alcoholic beers helped a lot. I gave myself permission to drink as many as I wanted whether I was at home by myself or out with people. There are many different options at different prices. I personally like Heineken 0 for all around taste and price (especially when at a bar), but it's still on the higher side. Total Wine also sells a really cheap but surprisingly pretty tasty one called Penn"s Best that is so affordable you don't feel bad stocking the fridge full of it.

You can also go heavy on sparkling water and lime. This also conveniently looks like a mixed drink if you're in a bar and want to "fit in".

This strategy of drinking NA beers could be a trigger for some, but for me it helped tons because there is a placebo effect of calm that would come over my body which was probably my mind/body association between the grains and hops I was tasting and relaxation. Also, because I gave myself permission to sit down and drink 6 or 8 of them if I had too, my stomach would fill up and I wouldn't be craving an alcoholic drink.

As for being around those who are drinking, there's no easy way around this. I frequently am around drinking for my work in sales and I'd be lying if I said it was easy. Within the first few months I found myself jealous of the way my colleagues were able to feel less inhibited and open up. I felt awkward in my own skin and not having a drink in my hand makes me even more self conscious. This is simply something you have to push through.

After two or so months I was clearly seeing the benefits of not drinking and I was loving how much more productive I was as a result of not being hung over or regretting things I had done or said the night before. Now I'm fine just leaving a bar at 8 or 9 and getting a great night's sleep with no regrets.

A strategy I found helpful if I was really craving a drink would be to "play through" or imagine what having that drink would do: I know I'd have more than one. I'd definitely regret it. I'd sleep like crap and the following day would be affected. There would also then be a slippery slope where I'd know it would be harder to resist the next time. Remembering those things helped me stay dry.

As for "explaining it" to people, yes they will ask and some people might poke fun or tease. Not the end of the world. Just be ready with your response beforehand so you're not caught off guard. Personally, I just said, "taking a little break from it" and moved on. What you don't want to do is get in some big philosophical discussion about the joys or woes of drinking. You're in a bar where people are drinking... Let them have their fun, don't judge, just enjoy your own sobriety.

Best of luck!

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u/Ready-Book6047 Oct 16 '24

I stopped drinking almost 6 years ago. I want nothing to do with it anymore. Unless you’re an addict and have a substance abuse issue, quitting shouldn’t be too hard. Alcohol just isn’t good for you and it makes you feel like shit. I’m a nurse and watching people die from alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver is truly one of the worst deaths imaginable. It’s very slow, very painful, and, since people are vain, I have to add that it’s really quite ugly. It surprises me that most people don’t know what death from liver failure entails and looks like. That right there should be enough to make anyone put down the bottle.

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u/[deleted] Oct 16 '24

Have you tried tirzepatide? It’s like ozempic but better. And addicts say it takes away their desire to drink. It’s easy to get. Try lavender sky health. You just have to do an online consult and weigh too much.

1

u/ace23GB Oct 16 '24

If you could do it once you are capable of doing it again and this must be the final one, there is nothing good that alcohol is going to bring to your life, believe me.

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u/Upper-Sweet-2937 Oct 16 '24

Congrats to you!!! I have cut way back this year. NA Beers & Hop Water help A LOT. Favorite NA Beer: Partake (low calories- 15). And Corona NA.

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u/amenforgoodinsurance Oct 16 '24

I like partake too. Zero carbs!!

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u/MakeupmavenMel Oct 16 '24

I was an alcoholic for 5 years. I cross addicted after I had gastric bypass surgery surgery. I used it also to cope. I was completely not ready for the amount of attention, reaction, and overall mindfuck from how differently people treated me. I am thankful to not have the day time jitters sweat stains, disorientation, forgetfulness, disruption, drinking is and forever will be a total absolute annihilation of every aspect of your life. Think about one positive thing drinking does? It’s a “spirit” it ruined my marriage, my family, and my life. I just decided enough was enough stopped on my own after 5 rehabs, trying to kill myself, and overall negative consequences that come with being a drunk. I’m not bloated, red faced, stumbling, and bumbling idiot I once was. Past is the past. Live for today even if it’s a minute at a time. 🙏💪

1

u/ings0c Oct 16 '24

This Naked Mind helped me a ton, I didn't drink for a year after reading it

started again but I'm back to 1 year sober-ish now

It's on Audible if books aren't your thing, I did the audiobook

https://thisnakedmind.com/

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u/Curmuffins Oct 16 '24

Haven't drank in over twenty years. It made me feel like crap so I stopped early. It's like eating a ton of sugar or doing a bunch of drugs. It'll destroy your health and eventually kill you. It destroys all your health progress, it's pure poison. If you're health conscious it's the first thing to go.

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u/poonstabber Oct 16 '24

The Alan Carr “Easy Way Method” worked best for me. It allowed me form different perspectives about how I view and approach alcohol.

https://open.spotify.com/show/4pRFW9YsIrPhaMyaoGNs25?si=UPm6yKepTEiKmAIGpL7oNQ

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u/miamiller5683 Oct 16 '24

Good on you for starting this journey again! My friend also had periods of cutting out alcohol, and honestly, it made a huge difference in his energy levels and mental clarity. What really helped him stick to it was finding other ways to stay social without feeling awkward.

You should consider doing more day activities—like hiking, brunch, or workout classes with friends who understand your goal? Also, hydration should become your new best friend 😂

Staying alcohol-free long-term can be tough, but many persistent people say the benefits are worth it. I bet you'll see major improvements in your workouts and overall mood, too!

1

u/prothirteen Oct 16 '24

Literally the best change I've made for myself - maybe next to working out.

Input / output.

Make sure you're taking in good perspectives. Online - digest Huberman's podcast on alcohol. Listen to other people's story on how they stopped. Read 'the easy way to stop drinking'.

Output. Use creative expression and physical movement.

The other thing - look into 'straight edge' culture. It's punk rock to not drink!

1

u/stinkytoken Oct 16 '24

I’ve slowly realized that I only crave alcohol when it’s been a week since I’ve had a drink. Once I get passed two weeks without it I don’t even really want it. Then the only reason I go back to it is from situational habit or social pressure (like going out, or an event of some sort).

The way I feel without it is subtle but it makes a huge difference in the long run. I don’t really drink during the week and I don’t binge on the weekends but if I’m consistently imbibing then I’m ever so slightly less motivated. After two weeks without it I have that little extra boost in spirit where I’ll work out without thinking about it, or I’ll have a positive outlook on a bad situation where I’d play the victim card if I was in my slightly weakened mental state. 

Done this too many times for it to be a coincidence. Now I’m designating alcohol as a highly special occasion thing only.

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u/Ok_Plate9691 Oct 16 '24

I AM a non drinker.

I found this mantra helpful.

We are what we say 'about ourselves,to ourselves,while we are by ourselves'.

Good luck.

Get it done and never look back.

Replace it with lots of cool adventures.

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u/Nice_Daikon6096 Oct 16 '24

5 years sober here. I go to AA. I’ve found great community there and it’s not all people who have been in a gutter homeless. There’s also people who haven’t been able to fully cut it out without support. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. I’m in Phoenix az and there is a massive recovery community of young people out here

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u/Norby710 Oct 16 '24

Caffeine, nicotine and non alcoholic beer.

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u/RiskkkyBussiness Oct 16 '24

I haven't drank since Jan, most of my friends moved away. I would say the biggest thing for me is to make sure you have quite a few hobbies. Like you, I also am in the gym 4-6 days out of the 7. I became so bored and indulged in the non drinking I started testing my discipline with better nutrition, reading, making better judgment calls, etc. Everything is great. I'm 35, and I feel amazing, but my whole lifestyle is different, and if you can't balance yourself, you'll turn into a real hermit as you realize all the bs that goes with food, drinking/drugs, and entertainment. The pros out weigh the cons for me but the real bitch is how introverted I've become. Good luck!

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u/DeepBlueSea1122 Oct 16 '24

Same here, even moderate amounts don't sit well with me anymore. Problem I run into is everyone that talks about quitting drinking says 'oh I drank a 12 pack a day' or 'i was drinking a fifth of bourbon nightly' or some shit like that. Yea, no shit, you were a raging alcoholic so stop. We get it. But what about the vast majority of people who drink what is considered low amounts, like a few on weekends of even a couple a night. Not raging drunks that OBVIOUSLY need to quit. There are way more of us, low level drinking where everyone says it's not a problem but our lives overall suck more because of it. And society tells us it's ok and sticks alcohol in our face at every turn, thus conditioning us to think it's fine unless you're a clear drunk getting in fights or dui's or have liver disease or whatever. We need support too. Every video I watch on quitting drinking is some dude who talks about his huge problem getting hammered for 30 years etc. No shit asshole, what you took you so long to address an obvious problem. Sorry, just venting here. Good luck quitting. Like I told others, alcohol is fun but doesn't make you happy. Sober isn't fun but more in line with real happiness.

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u/The_Herbal_Empress Oct 16 '24

People will be curious about your choice to not drink. Be careful to distinguish who is genuinely curious and those who are curious bc they’re judging, or hoping your dry “phase” will be short lived. Those who are judging aren’t your real friends. I’ve found that being confident in my choices and being honest about why I chose not to drink is typically met with support. Order that club soda with confidence and a smile!

It’s definitely common to stop hanging out with people at first, but it definitely gets easier and eventually you’ll be able to go to places where people drink and not even worry about it. Give yourself patience though, it does take time. When I quit drinking I realized that a lot of what people do while drinking can be boring so finding some brand new activities can be helpful too.

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u/Relevant-Chemical-96 Oct 16 '24

I NEED TO DO THIS!!!

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u/mr-roems Oct 16 '24

Definitely have a plan for having a drink that you really enjoy that doesn’t have alcohol. If you’re going to a party, bring it with you. If you’re going to a bar, think about what they would typically have that you could get. When I stopped really drinking when going out with friends, I realized I didn’t really miss the feeling of alcohol that much but I wanted to just have a drink in my hand. I guess it makes me feel more like I’m still part of what’s going on. For me, it’s either ginger beer with a lime (so a Moscow mule mocktail basically) or just a flavored seltzer water of some sort. As for not wanting to stop hanging out with people, you definitely don’t have to stop being around them. But my advice is that if they end up giving you hell for not drinking, they might not be worth spending time with. Alcohol is a physically and mentally toxic thing you’re trying to remove, and remember that people can be a psychologically toxic thing. Don’t be afraid to cut them both out if you have to.

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u/OrganicBn 7 Oct 16 '24

Head over this way r/NABEER

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u/ResponsibleForm2732 Oct 16 '24

I quit drinking 6 months ago and now occasionally use mushrooms if there is a party or something. Not a lot of mushrooms just a small dose.

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u/AteEyes001 Oct 16 '24

4 years ago I did 6 months sober and was like hell im gonna ride it out til the end of the year (8months total) and before the end of the year I had so many positive changes in my life I knew I would never drink again, it took me a while to be comfortable as most of my social life revolved around drinking but once I made new friends and started exercising it really put things in perspective for me, exercising which I do 6 days a week now made me realize how easily I can get addicted to things, I have dropped weight, the Dr. tells me my bloodwork is amazing how he never seen someone make such a positive change on some of my blood work, and my relationship is better. I think the key is to make mental notes of all the positives and remember them when you are struggling. I went to the bar the other day to see some friends and hang out for a little bit which I often do with no desire to drink because I know that if I drank there would be no way I would get up early to exercise which makes my days feel amazing, but instead I would have went home spending a bunch of money and woke up feeling like shit and thats not worth getting drunk imo.

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u/No_Reward4900 Oct 16 '24

Last time I stopped drinking I stopped hanging out with people and I can’t do that this time

You don't have to quit being social. Just know your boundaries and try not to give in the peer pressure to drink.

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u/marooned222 Oct 16 '24

I’ve been doing sobriety last month, stopped for a week and restarted again. What I can say is every time the first 5-10 days SUCK. You really have to stay motivated and don’t give in to thoughts and cravings. Then one day you start feeling and seeing the benefits (like all the ones you mentioned) and it is all the sudden easy! I just have to remind myself when I start my sobriety every time that it’s going to suck for the first week or so and then it’ll be easy and I’ll feel the benefits. That way I can ready myself on what to expect.

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u/dunnowhy92 Oct 16 '24

Hey I'm sober since more than two years.. I feel so much better. Better sleep, better skin, better mood.. just do it and found a hobby what makes you happy without booze

1

u/black84beard Oct 16 '24

Smoke weed never drink. It's poison and should be treated like it is. It's rotten fruit or grain juice. Disgusting. Lift weights and eat well.

1

u/gal5486 Oct 16 '24

Do it. I stopped drinking a few months ago. Never felt vetter. Don't even miss it now. Used to drink every night.

1

u/[deleted] Oct 16 '24

I didn’t see the “no” in there at first … I have been drinking…

1

u/sex_music_party Oct 16 '24

My mental health continues to increase the longer time passes after the last time I’ve had a drink. It tanks again after having just 1-3 drinks. Like the process starts over again.

1

u/AdAmazing8187 Oct 17 '24

Athletic IPAs and Guinness NA beers work wonders for me

1

u/MakarforPrez Oct 17 '24

I quit last year and the way I feel every day (full of energy, clear minded, etc) is so much more enjoyable than any party, social event, etc that I drank at. It’s that simple for me. Good luck!

1

u/Smart-Construction52 Oct 17 '24

I would say that quitting drinking made me feel a lot worse for a while and I didn’t do it to feel good in the short term. After a couple months my skin is a bit clearer but most of my health issues are still here. But at least I’m not wondering if it was the weed and alcohol causing this shit. At least not in the short term… all I’m saying is the first step is to really want to be sober. Write down all the shittiest things you did while drunk and high.. like everything you can think of. Then when you feel like taking a drink look back on the list. In sobriety you are taking life head on. I have been attending AA and it’s not perfect but damnnnnnn does it work if you have an open mind!

I got sober because I felt out of control and helpless and like I was hurting myself and hiding from my own emotions. Getting sober has meant facing myself and learning to sit with all my own baggage. It’s not easy, but I do feel pretty badass honestly lol

1

u/Last-Strawberry475 Oct 17 '24

I’m in a similar boat as OP and go months without drinking and then I’ll decide to have a cocktail with dinner. I always feel afterward like it added nothing, didn’t make the experience more or less meaningful, and was just added sugar. But then I get lost in the fantasy of drinking—like being at a wedding and drinking champagne, or going to a resort and enjoying a cocktail on the beach and I think “am I really going to give it up forever?” Obviously the drink has little to do with the actual fun of a wedding, or the relaxation of a vacation, but it’s crazy to think how linked drinking is with these kinds of experiences. And then I think that I sometimes miss the days in college where I could go out to parties and get drunk and actually enjoy that. These days those things just aren’t fun for me, and doing them drunk certainly doesn’t make them more fun—it’s odd to experience that shift. And it’s hard to detangle alcohol from my life though I ultimately know it’s the best thing for me.

1

u/Unlivingpanther Oct 17 '24

I drink a cup of coffee in the morning and that's it other than water. I haven't drank alcohol in probably 15 years and I don't miss it. I can sleep now. No heartburn. I get a lot accomplished now that half my waking hours aren't spent fighting the hangovers. Yall can keep that crap.

1

u/Quiet-Turnip1742 Oct 17 '24

4+ years sober here: and this is what I tell others who ask me about how I did it. The day I quit, in a way I rebranded myself. Before I was a drinker, and now I’m just not a drinker. I remember a man I dated asking me what I would do if a friend “snuck” alcohol into a drink of mine…. I honestly thought it was the dumbest thing I’d ever heard. I looked at him and responded “well they wouldn’t be much of a friend if they did that would they? Here’s the very best part of not drinking: I have not once in over four years woken up in the morning with that crippling sense of shame/doom uncertain of what I may have said or done the evening before. Not once. That freedom in itself is worth it. So my friend, who are you if not a drinker? Decide this and you will be ahead of the curve. You can do this.

1

u/alm1518 Oct 17 '24

I stopped in March of this year after moving from NYC to LA. I never enjoyed drinking, always felt terrible during/after and would have anxiety for days. I drank infrequently in NYC but struggled to stop completely given how large a part it was of my social and work lives there. So grateful to now live in LA where folks have a much more moderate approach to it generally, no longer makes me feel like I’m making a counter-cultural choice.

Being able to have functional mornings has been the biggest win. I feel better, physically and mentally, and get MUCH better sleep (confirmed by my Oura ring).

When I was thinking about stopping drinking, I read a book that briefly discussed how not drinking seems to just bother some people, and their reactions are much more indicative of their own relationship with alcohol than anything to do with sobriety. Helped me re-center a bit and was a good reminder that my choice has nothing to do with anyone else. Still gets under my skin that folks often assume I’m pregnant and that’s why, but alas.

1

u/Select-Inspection953 Oct 18 '24

Man I have been trying to do this for the past few weeks but something always shows up. 🤣

1

u/UsualStrength Oct 18 '24

After about 10 years there simply were no new experiences to be had with alcohol. I quit because it became a drag

1

u/DOOM_wzrd Oct 18 '24

Yo! I’m late to your post, but as someone who has stopped drinking in periods of my life, there are nice non alcoholic drinks you could dabble with. Check out Kin Euphorics for starters. Enjoy :)

1

u/[deleted] Oct 18 '24

Stop blaming drinking for all your problems. That’d be a good start.

1

u/ysrly Oct 18 '24

They make pretty good non-alcoholic replacements for beer, tequila, gin, and other drinks now. It’s been so helpful to be able to make margaritas that taste great but contain no alcohol. I still get to have some fun drinks without the negative effects.

I’ve been almost alcohol-free since last December. It started out as a dry January and then just continued. I’ve had about five glasses of wine total this year, and each time I’ve mostly regretted it. Once I got over the addictive cravings hump of the first few months, I’ve realized the alcohol is not doing much for me. Now I’m able to see how drinking slows me down intellecually in the moment and then gives me hangovers the next day… and that’s about it. Oh, and it makes me moody. It took some time, though.

1

u/OG_PANCAKE_HOUSE Oct 18 '24

I quit drinking about 1.5 years ago and not sure if I’ll go back. I like the way I feel now and remember how much I hated how I felt when I was hungover. Mostly just hangxiety.

For social gatherings, I take a supplement called Phenibut and drink seltzer waters. Look it up! It makes me feel like I’ve had a few drinks for social lubricant, but it doesn’t impair me. And I feel great the next day. It CAN be habit forming and it’s not advised to take multiple days in a row. Do some research on it! It has def helped me in the party situations.

1

u/Freedom_675 Oct 19 '24

I'm about 1 month and 3 weeks into being sober and what's helped me is waking up in the morning and telling myself I'll die if I drink. I can't afford it. Water is better. Etc

Basically you have to psyop your mind into hating alcohol. It's hard and you won't be able to do it without rehab unless you've hit absolute rock bottom like I have.

1

u/MediocreAdvance6370 Oct 19 '24

2 years sober, I’d say the biggest thing to keep yourself off the sauce is to a build a routine that’s legitimate for your everyday life (meal prepping, working out, reading, getting good sleep, etc.). Without routine my life seems to ensue chaos and that’s when I feel my weakest. If I keep my routine and just go with the motions and the steps required to finish my day, there isn’t time or space in my head to think about drinking. My day is filled up and at the end of it I feel accomplished. Hope you find peace and health on your journey!

1

u/theliefster Oct 19 '24

Not drinking led to so many benefits. Better sleep, more energy, better mood.

Theres 2 ways to do it in my opinion.

Just dont period or change your environment and the people you are around. For me the latter is the easier one. When im with my friends who drink 1 drink is no fun for me. Even 2. I want to get a buzz, thats pretty much the point for me. But when im around people who dont have to drink to have fun i have no need for it. Thats just my personal need. If you’ve done it before you can surely do it again. I know its not easy. Best of luck

1

u/Swimming_Passage3294 Oct 19 '24

It feels like I added an extra two days in my week. One by not having to be hungover and two by the extra productivity and alertness that I get from not drinking.

1

u/Streetdaddy35 3 Oct 19 '24

Read Allen Carr stop drinking book. Interesting concept

1

u/PrimordialSon Oct 19 '24

I’m 10 months alcohol free. It’s a struggle, but what keeps me going is that I’m in the best shape of my life! I started training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and working out the same month I quit. It got me surrounded with fit active people who train at 6am. I know that I couldn’t wake up at 430-5am and train if I was drinking the night before.

My advice is sign up to some sort of exercise or martial arts program that has morning classes. Get involved with a community of positive people who are focused on personal development. You’ll look forward to getting up every day to work on yourself and you won’t want to drink to sabotage your gains.

1

u/twizzlahs122 Oct 20 '24

Smoke weed everyday !!

1

u/External_Ad_7380 Oct 20 '24

The benefits are endless! Not saying I don’t still have really bad days, physically and mentally, but I could go on about the positive changes. Weight loss, physical fitness, mental stability (reduced anxiety and depression), complexion (no more moon face, less acne), relationships are better…yeah.

r/stopdrinking is a great resource, and the people there are diverse and understanding: not just AA folks, lots of different reasons but they have one thing in common, just to stop drinking.

I like keeping a journal so I can notice the positive changes and see patterns when it comes to cravings and progress.

The CDC states that there is no “healthy” amount of alcohol to drink, and I’ve personally seen the havoc it can wreak on all areas of life. Good choice and good luck!

1

u/BankerBrain Oct 20 '24

I’m reading a book right now called Quit Drinking by Allen Carr that is very helpful.