There is a broad spectrum between social drinking and being an alcoholic, but if you think you might be someone who does more than your fair share of occasional drinking, or when you do drink it is excessive (known as binge drinking), you may be in the gray area. Every person is different, so you need to honestly assess your own situation. If you are unsure, you may want to ask those closest to you or consult a professional. “Mommy Juice” “Mommy wine culture is powerful and dangerous,” said Jessica. “I started innocently enough having wine at playgroups with friends.” That led her to drinking nightly while making dinner and doing homework with the kids, which eventually progressed. “I felt like I deserved this reward after a long day without ever identifying how much harm it was causing not only me, but my family,” she said. Jessica feels that what helped her recover the most was connecting with other sober, healthy people. “I started the Sober Girl Gang specifically for women in the area to build community with like-minded women. We plan fun activities or just hang out. Today, my sober life is much more fun than it was living with a daily hangover. I am fully present with my kids now, and I get to have a true and rich life. Find Your Path There are options when it comes to finding a path to sobriety. Sober Curious is a movement of people who are redefining their relationship to alcohol and reducing the amount that they drink, if not stopping entirely. Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are free, widely available, and do not require a belief in any specific religion or version of God, despite the popular misconception. Social media has brought virtual communities, like the Sober Girl Gang, to connect people from all around the world. For those who also desire individual support, there are mental health therapists who are specifically trained in addiction and recovery.
A Deadly Disease It is essential to understand, however, that even moderate alcohol addiction is more physiologically dangerous than it is often presented, and quitting drinking can be life- threatening depending on your level of dependence. Some people will need to detox in a safe environment, such as an urgent care center or hospital. Having an open and honest conversation with a provider is a good first step in understanding your personal risk. Rehabilitation programs are also available for people who have tried stopping and believe that it is not possible for them to get sober in their current environment. Sometimes, it is necessary to live with other recovering alcoholics in a structured program in order to learn healthier thoughts and behaviors. There is hope! Jessica Ward wants women to understand that sober living is not the buzzkill that it is often made out to be. “I was a person who once believed alcohol ‘enhanced’ every experience. Now, I see it’s really like watching life through a dirty window.” If you are a relative or friend of someone who has a problem with alcohol, you can learn more from Al-Anon & Al-Ateen or Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA).
56 | THE MOTHERLODE
Powered by FlippingBook