Best products from r/stopdrinking

We found 249 comments on r/stopdrinking discussing the most recommended products. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 418 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.

Top comments mentioning products on r/stopdrinking:

u/Franks2000inchTV · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

Welcome! We've all been there!

It's kinda strange realizing that about yourself, I bet. I know it was for me. Just kind of like "oh my god! really?"

You've already taken the most important first step! You've come to ask for help and that is absolutely huge. A lot of people never gather up the courage and self-awareness it takes to have that realization. So give yourself some big pats on the back! You deserve them!

As far as first steps, obviously, I'd suggest not drinking tomorrow. Be sober for 24 hours. See how it feels to wake up without a hangover. That was a huge motivator for me in my early days.

If that seems kinda intimidating, I highly recommend the book Allen Carr's Easy Way to Stop Drinking. It's what helped me to quit. It's only $15 and like 100 pages. Very easy read. It gave me a new perspective on my drinking and gave me the courage to quit for good!

For a lot of people on the subreddit, AA meetings provide a lot of support. You may also consider attending a meeting. If AA isn't your style, then there are other options available. Support groups are one of the most effective tools of stopping recovery.

Most importantly, keep coming back here and posting and letting us know how you're doing. Even if in the early days you have trouble putting more than a couple days together, stay connected to the subreddit. When you're having trouble, ask for support. We've all been exactly where you are, and it was because we asked for help that we are where we are today.

You've taken the first step towards living a new, healthier, awesome life. Believe me, it might be tough at first, but it is SO WORTH IT! Since I quit drinking I've been saving tons of money, I've lost weight, I'm feeling better, my relationship with my family has improved... all these things, and without much effort. As long as I stay sober, the rest of my life just seems to work better.

You can get there too. Just stick with it, keep coming back and checking in. We're a friendly group, and there's nothing we love more than helping people on their journey.

Honestly, though, you have already made a huge step. Welcome to the subreddit! Congratulations again! We're all rooting for you. You are stronger than you know, and it's going to be lots of fun watching you discover that. :D

u/ginger_sprout · 10 pointsr/stopdrinking

I recently read Codependent No More and I can’t recommend it enough. It has really helped me see how my old thinking and behavior in relationships kept me locked in unhealthy patterns and kept me from developing as a person, independently of what anyone else was doing. It’s helping me realize that the only person who I can or should try to control is myself.

I’m currently reading The Language Of Letting Go by the same author, which has daily thoughts about about the same topics. It has also been hugely helpful to me, and is available for free, along with other recovery readings, at recoveryreadings.com.

When I first got sober this time around I went to an Alanon meeting, which is a support group for people who are in relationships with alcoholics. I’m not currently in a relationship, and it didn’t feel entirely relevant to where I am right now, but it’s a fantastic resource and might be worth checking out.

Therapy has also been a great resource and support for me. I’ve gotten sober before while living with an active alcoholic. My ex was not as regular or as compulsive of a drinker as I was, but he still drank regularly, in unhealthy ways, and addiction popped up in a lot of ways, for both of us, in how we lived our lives. It was tough for me to stay focused on doing what I needed to do to take care of myself and support my sobriety. I worked a lot on putting effort into it, but I didn’t look for ways to get the support that I needed. More support, earlier, would’ve helped me a lot.

That’s just my experience, for what it’s worth. I wish you luck, and it sounds like you’re in a loving and healthy headspace regarding all of this.

u/pollyannapusher · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

>I think you might be a touch stronger than me.

Nope. Not stronger by myself. I surrounded myself with people who knew of my struggles. I was honest with my boss and my closest co-worker. I went to AA. I had my sponsor to lean on in the hard times to tell me to BREATHE. The Serenity Prayer is my best friend. Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. I couldn't change his attitude, but I could change mine.

We don't have to travel this road alone. There are resources and help and love for us if we have a willing heart.

As far as my SO and I are concerned, I struggled for many months doing the next right thing every day, being where I was supposed to be when I said I was going to, being the perfect little girlfriend in every way I knew how. I was patient, kind, loving, giving....you name it.

But a few weeks ago, after the 20th argument that ended up with him saying he wanted out of this relationship, I finally said "That's probably for the best" and moved into another room of the house. I have come to realize that this whole time I have been reacting to his actions and attitudes through a vision of guilt...what I did in the past was making him act the way he was acting.

Finally it dawned on me that it wasn't just me (although I am a trigger). He has his own problems which I knew of for the most part, but I now realize that these problems are much deeper than I once thought...like serious psychological issues. While I would never abandon him were he willing to work on those problems and face them, I have to take care of myself and let go of this relationship. I have to be somewhere where I can feel safe emotionally and where I can expose my vulnerability. I can't do that with him, so I will do it alone. Once school is out for the year, my daughter and I will be moving on. He is isolating himself in the bedroom for the most part, but that is nothing new.

It's time to really start taking care of yourself for you. Not him. Many alcoholics also struggle with co-dependency issues and it sounds like this may be the case with you. I highly recommend reading The Language of Letting Go to help you along that path.

Some other resources I've found helpful:

Brene Brown

Loving kindness mindful meditation

AA

Be well sister. If you need to talk anytime, I'm here. Just PM me. <3

u/SpiritWolfie · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

Ahh ok....cool. The good news is that in today's world, there are many alternatives to AA.

I'm not going to try to talk you into going to AA but just know, I've known plenty of people that had the same reservations as you and were able to get help in AA and even enjoy it.

On a different topic, I took a look at the sidebar and for some reason I didn't see the SMART Recovery link. Perhaps it would be more to your liking. I honestly can't speak to it because I've never used it. I've heard people mention it here and they also have online meetings you can attend for free.

I have read parts of Allen Carr's Book and I quite liked it but I've barely read much of it. If you can't afford it be sure to check your local library as they might have a copy you can check out for free.

Anyways - I hope you find something that works for you because life can be fun again and it's quite possible to live a sober and happy life.

u/girlreachingout24 · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

I think one of the most important things my bf did for me during my various attempts to stop drinking was: he refused to be my gatekeeper. By that I mean he didn't try to make me stop or make me go, not even when I asked him to. He refused to be responsible for if I picked up a drink or not, and fielding that responsibility back to me so I had to "man up" and handle it on my own is something I look back on and really appreciate now. It could've had bad repercussions on our relationship if he had taken that role, but I was too caught up in the problem to realize that.

The other thing is just show support, show you care. Knowing you give a crap and are there for her is huge! My boyfriend bought me these books, because I'm an atheist but wanted to explore the usefulness of the 12 steps. The books are helpful, right, but it wasn't the books themselves that meant so much to me- it was that he was taking my goals seriously and trying to help. That meant the world. I didn't feel alone in the middle of a really daunting task.

Take care. Thank you for being supportive of your SO. =) And good luck to you too! This is a great sub for support!

u/steiner76 · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

Welcome! The best way to quit is to ultimately change your thinking so you no longer look at it as a positive but something to be avoided at all costs, at least until you can sort of evaluate the situation with a bit of clarity. I ended up going to AA and got a sponsor and haven't had a drink since.

I suggest in the early parts just altering your routine. I started reading at night while drinking a metric ton of water. I first read though a bunch of books about people going through recovery and stuff like that. It really helped and there are a lot of great books out there.

For you I highly recommend this book as you will probably identify with the author quite a bit as she was about your age, wine drinker, etc. It's one of the best books written on the creeping nature of alcoholism and how it can consume our lives.

Best of luck to you and please keep checking in to let us know how you are doing.

You can also request a badge on the right :)

u/2ndal · 0 pointsr/stopdrinking

You may wake up with no anxiety and feeling normal for once after a late night of drinking, but does that feeling persist? No, of course not...it goes away some time after the alcohol wears off. So that would mean the only way to consistently have that great feeling if the only remedy is alcohol is to drink it ALL THE TIME. But you know that is not possible, that you would not be able to function in society and your body would literally shut down. If you find this to be true, how could it be the alcohol that is giving you those powers of feeling normal and anxiety free? In truth, could it be that alcohol is the original cause of those feelings in the first place, and once under its grasp the only way to find relief from those feelings is more alcohol?

"[alcohol] offers itself as a relief from the very problems it causes." --DFW

If this concept is intriguing to you, give Allen Carr and Annie Grace a read. They both do an excellent job of unwinding the myths that society has propagated about alcohol, including how it can feel impossible to enjoy life without it.

u/offtherocks · 3 pointsr/stopdrinking

It reads fine. :)

I'm sorry you're going through this. Here is the section from our FAQ that lists a few resources available to people in your shoes. I hope you find some of these useful.

Good luck.


For Concerned Family Members


/r/stopdrinking is primarily a support community for those looking for help with their own drinking. As such, this often isn't the best place to ask for advice regarding a friend or family member with an alcohol problem. You are welcome to post to this community, but please be aware that your question may be better answered in another forum. Here are a few resources for friends & family looking for advice.

u/[deleted] · 4 pointsr/stopdrinking

Today I am on holiday. I have days and days on my hand, but I focus on what I can do today. Today I am going to an AA meeting at 1:30 and another at 8pm. I'll get to both an hour early to help put the chairs out and talk to other alcoholics like my self about how they managed to stay sober. As I've got time on my hands I'll stay behind to help clear up too. I don't know who'll be there, it'll be a mixture of a few people I've met before and a whole load of people who I haven't - vistitors from out of town or just people there for the first time. One thing I do know is that we are all there for the same reason - whe cannot keep away from the booze on our own. But together, for some reason, we seem to be able to stay away from it just fine.

I find that If I get there early I meet the old timers those who have been coming to AA meetings for 10 20 30 years and who have managed to stay sober.

The first meeting I'm going to is called "living sober" they read a chapter from a book called "living sober" - maybe you should get yourself a copy - I got my copy from an AA meeting for a next to nothing (cost price), or you can get them on amazon for about three times the price.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Living-Sober-Alcoholics-Anonymous-Services/dp/0916856046/

Good luck - I can't tell you what to do all I can do is tell you what happened to me and show you the results - you'll find people like me the world over if you are willing to look for us.

u/everydayanewday · 3 pointsr/stopdrinking

Why not lay off those social media for a while? Enough studies to show emerging ourselves in it doesn't really make us happier but down instead. Or, if you really want to be there, open a new account under another name. It can be liberating to meet new people and talk about other things than those you "have to"

Keep up your electrolytes. Easiest way is to have some broth. I use these Knorr cups. Have 1-2 cups a day.

Stay hydrated. Drink a lot of water, tea, etc.

Eat well. Don't go for a lot of (empty) carbs such as sweets, chips, bread, etc:

> "Consuming carbs, particularly empty carbs such as sweets and soda, can provide a short-term rush of energy. But once your body releases insulin to help regulate your blood-sugar levels, the swift removal of those carbs into your muscles, liver and other organs can leave you feeling lethargic and tired"
-- Feeling tired after eating carbs

And -- be a better friend to yourself. Stop being a jerk. If your best friend would come to you and say something like "Shit, I can't drink coffee because I will be up at night and then start a cycle a rage and regret", you wouldn't say "you're so lame!" 🙂

I'm not drinking with you today

u/rogermelly1 · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

>I've been "trying" to quit for a few months now, going for 4-8 days then drinking and resetting again

I could always stop drinking, it was staying stopped that I could not do. For me, I had to get a support system in place for it to stick. Reddit works for me when i can't get out, but for me the most important part of my recovery is Face to face interactions with similar people. Good luck

Resources and Groups


Other subreddits

u/soberingthought · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

Some of the stuff you mention in your post resonates quite a bit with me -- the anxiety stuff.

Early in 2015, three years before I got sober, I started seeing a therapist weekly and focused on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in my sessions. Almost immediately I was able to work with CBT to help deal with my anxiety. Six months in, we agreed that I was wrestling with some mild obsessions/compulsions as well and so I started Sertraline (Zoloft). The combo of CBT and Zoloft was amazing for me. The Zoloft quieted my ruminations (repetitive, intrusive thoughts, like beating myself up for an awkward social interaction, etc) that were bombarding me and gave me the breathing room I needed to really exercise my CBT skills and deal with my anxiety. It took me three years of sticking with therapy, CBT, and medication, but I slowly built up the strength I needed to finally get sober.

Some of the phrasing you used in your post makes me wonder if you might also have a bit of the ol' ruminations. I'm not saying you need therapy or medications, but you might want to put that on your radar if you haven't given them a go.

An old-timer around here, /u/seeker135, has mentioned he read Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy and was eventually able to manage his anxiety without medication. I just bought the sucker yesterday and haven't even cracked it open, but /u/seeker135 definitely seems to have his stuff together, so you might want to look into that too.

Best of luck! I'm learning that just because I got sober doesn't mean I'm suddenly all better. It just means I have a clear enough head to get to work on my real problems now, and I'm frankly excited to get to work!

IWNDWYT

u/EverybodyIsBitches · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking



Carr, Allen - The Easy Way to Stop Drinking (2005) [GoodReads|Amazon|Google] - Carr offers a startling new view of why we drink and how we can escape the addiction. Step by step, with devastating clarity and simplicity, he applies the Easyway™ method, dispelling all the illusions that surround the subject of drinking and that can make it almost impossible to imagine a life without alcohol.

Grace, Annie - This Naked Mind: Control Alcohol: Find Freedom, Rediscover Happiness & Change Your Life (2015) [GoodReads|Amazon] - This book, without scare tactics, pain or rules, gives you freedom from alcohol. By addressing causes rather than symptoms it is a permanent solution rather than lifetime struggle. It removes the psychological dependence allowing you to easily drink less (or stop drinking). Annie’s clarity, humor and unique ability to blend original research with riveting storytelling ensures you will thoroughly enjoy the process.

u/sunjim · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

>I can't break out of my habits

Yes you can. You absolutely can. You just have decide if you want to stop drinking or if you just want to talk about it. You decide. Everyone here in SD has to make that same decision.

How? We could start by making a decision not to drink today, and then doing something different to support that decision. For example, have you attended a meeting (AA or SMART, for example)? Have you told a family member about your problem? A close friend? You could call them up, now, and ask them to listen and ask them for support.

Many people have found the Allen Carr book linked in the sidebar helpful in changing the drinking habit.

Reaching out here is something different. That's great. Reaching out and asking for help in figuring out you next step is even better.

What's your next step?

u/seeker135 · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

Read Paragraph 2, line 6 and you'll have an answer you didn't think could exist..

As a late bloomer, I always knew I was intelligent, but felt a lack when I compared myself to my peers. They seemed (or many did, seemingly) to have a better grasp of what to do. Not all the time, but much of the time, I just didn't feel like I was operating on the same plane, to my detriment. But it truly wasn't until about forty that I felt where I should have been at about twenty three, twenty four. But maybe that's an assumption that needs to be re-thought.

This book might change your life. Recommended to me by my therapist, reading the first chapter (~50 pp) was a series of small epiphanies as I answered a series of self-evaluation questions, really engrossing stuff. I still get depressed, but I know it's because of circumstance, not because of the way I have been treating myself.

At twenty-eight, I had already blown two superb career opportunities and was about to blow a third. My sobriety and my best days were ahead of me. I don't recommend my path to anyone

Do something every day that scares you. Do something different every day. Love yourself.

IWNDWYT

u/goat_on_a_float · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

I dumped the alcohol in my house and told my girlfriend about my plan (we've been together for years, we may as well be married). I've gone to my doctor and have a follow up appointment in about a month. I will tell my close friends that I no longer drink. I'm currently reading "This Naked Mind" (https://www.amazon.com/This-Naked-Mind-Rediscover-Happiness/dp/0996715002/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469891518&sr=8-1&keywords=this+naked+mind), which seems good so far.

I'll hang out here and on IRC regularly and will explore options for counseling and meditation. I think it's important not to do too much too fast. I still smoke cigarettes; that's an addiction I'll deal with later. I'm not going to join a gym or try to run a half marathon anytime soon.

I know the first few days and weeks will be hard. I'm prepared for that, but I'm not fighting against anything. I've made my decision, so there's no point in thinking about alcohol, or whether I can moderate or whether one drink will make me feel better. It's pointless. Maybe I could moderate and maybe I couldn't. I'm not going to try. I don't drink anymore.

In the very short term I will avoid places where alcohol is readily available but I'm not going to live my life in fear. Once I have more experience as a non-drinker, I will have strengthened my ability to be comfortable around alcohol without being concerned about drinking it. I will probably be less interested in going to bars, but there are plenty of other great things I can do with my time now, and if I do go out with friends after a few months of not drinking, no one is going to hold a gun to my head.

But, there's no point in thinking too far into the future right now. The most important thing is that I don't drink anymore, that I'm not ashamed to tell people that, and that I don't feel remorse or guilt. I've made a decision; now, it's time to get on with the business of living my life. Sobriety is not a goal for me now. It's a reality.

u/Rest_When_Done · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

They deleted it from YouTube, damn. I guess it was copyright infringement. Here is the post the other Redditor mentioned. It's free but with the caveat that you need to sign up for a trial period of Audible (which is not free after the however long the offer is good for). Annie Grace does have a free podcast of the same name that contains some of the same ideas and topics in the book for the cheap peeps out there. The Audible link is below;

This Naked Mind: Control Alcohol, Find Freedom, Discover Happiness, and Change Your Life https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078F9NDFS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FOjNDbV5TZ6SV

u/incidentalist · 3 pointsr/stopdrinking

Hi and welcome! Sent the following info to someone earlier.

There’s lots of good info in the ABOUT section of this sub. You’ll have to figure out what fits for you. Maybe AA is helpful, if not or in addition I found these resources helpful...Alternatives . Quit lit has been helpful for me. This book really cleared my mind about alcohol Alcohol Explained . A lot of people also seem to like This Naked Mind though I haven’t read it. Best of luck!

u/ScoobySnacks_27 · 3 pointsr/stopdrinking

Thanks! I don't know how it happened, exactly. However, I think it was the combination of things. After being in that incapacitated state that not even 10 Advils could fix, I came here, to Reddit. I found the "stop drinking" sub-reddit, and started reading posts. Somewhere along the way, someone posted a link to a book called "This Naked Mind." http://www.amazon.com/This-Naked-Mind-Rediscover-Happiness/dp/0996715002/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8. I looked it up, and wound up downloading it to my Kindle app. Well...wow. I've read another book in a similar vein, Jason Vale's "Kick the Drink Easily." Well, I didn't kick the drink easily after reading it, but it did get me thinking. "This Naked Mind," by Annie Grace, takes the concept further, and really I swear, I didn't want to drink by the end of it. Not only that, but instead of it being big, scary, terrifying decision that I didn't really want to make, it felt great. It felt...just right. I can't explain it, but how ever she put things, clicked with me. It gave me that "I don't HAVE to drink!" epiphany.
It was the weirdest thing, in the past, if I'd been attempting to quit, I would have gotten myself completely worked up into a lather before going to the aforementioned dinner party. I kept waiting for the anxiety to hit, or my "willpower" to waver, but it never did. I walked into my friends house, and asked for tea. I had a great time, and I didn't feel left out, or uneasy. I couldn't believe it. That has NEVER happened to me before around alcohol. So yes! I believe we CAN do it! Thanks :)

u/Old_School_New_Age · 6 pointsr/stopdrinking

You remember the annoying old saying old folks use "If you set your mind to something, you can do it?"

You're proving it, and making your life better (and yourself safer)>

If you aren't currently taking any supplements, a multivitamin and 200Iu of vitamin D daily are a good idea. The multi for obvious reasons, the D helps fight depression and makes many of the other vitamins more effective.

Keep up the good work. And for those rough patches, I recommend having this book.

It may be at your local library. You don't need it now, you are in a good, positive place. But for when it seems to be raining every day, and nothing's going quite right, it can be a huge help. It was for me.

u/treesandclouds · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

Definitely check in with a doctor about the pain. I know for sure my health has improved since I quit but it's probably a good idea to check in with a doctor.

The next step is to figure out how to stop drinking in a way that will work for you, because everyone is different. /u/invincie already linked to coolcrosby's baby steps so definitely check that out. I personally am a big fan of Allen Carr's Easy Way to Control Alcohol too. And of course this sub is invaluable.

The trick is to figure out exactly what you need to get sober. For me it was this sub, the book I mentioned, the support of my SO, and a focus on exercise/healthy eating to replace the bad habit of drinking. However as I said everyone is different so you have to figure out what will stick for you.

Best of luck and keep us posted!

u/tom_snout · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

Welcome to SD, u/beefine. Hang in there, starting out can be hard, but the rewards are great. I found in the first days that I was really helped by filling some free hours with Allen Carr's book on how/why to stop drinking. Here's the link--available in a pretty cheap kindle edition for reading on the go. Hang in there!

u/coldbeers · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

http://www.amazon.com/The-Easy-Way-Stop-Drinking/dp/1402736479/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1410237473&sr=8-1&keywords=allen+carr+easy+way+to+stop+drinking

I have it sitting on a shelf :) but the smoking one worked like a charm on me, 13 years smoke free now and boy was I addicted, it was easy.

Maybe I'll get round to reading my copy one day, if I decided I wanted to stop for good (and I'm not there yet) this would be the first thing I'd do.

u/Earth_and_sky · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

Thank you for sharing this. Shame has been one of the worst forces in my life for a long time, really crippling my potential and causing me to keep on self-sabotaging because some part of me doesn't believe that I deserve any better. Weirdly, stopping drinking has actually resulted in LESS shame for me, but I feel like I empathize with what you're going through. I think therapy will really help. (Therapy and meds have helped me.)

You might also want to check out some books by the researcher Brené Brown - she studies shame, courage, and vulnerability. I've only read one of her books - The Gift of Imperfection - but I thought it was really good. She also has some good talks online.

u/debtsetradio · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

The book I credit the most with assisting me in learning to love myself is The Four Agreements. It's simple, easy to ready, and there is a companion book, to help implement the agreements in your life. Both can be had for under $20 on Amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/Four-Agreements-Practical-Personal-Freedom/dp/1878424319/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1395577539&sr=1-1&keywords=four+agreements

u/hardman52 · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

> It might surprise some people to know that I don't believe in god, but still do the best I can in working the steps and the rest of AA's program.

Doesn't surprise me at all. If you haven't read it, Waiting: A Nonbeliever's Higher Power is an amazing book. I'm at a point where I'm trying to define exactly what I believe after 30+ years of not worrying about it too much, and that book is helping me tremendously.

u/Rational_Optimist · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

Just posted this on another post but here is the link to This Naked Mind on Audible for those interested;

This Naked Mind: Control Alcohol, Find Freedom, Discover Happiness, and Change Your Life https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078F9NDFS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FOjNDbV5TZ6SV

u/ohgeeztt · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

He's a physician who speaks beautifully on addiction. Brilliant and compassionate man. I would highly recommend giving his book a read. He also has several talks on youtube.

u/Xmeromotu · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

Your brain is still trying to recover from the abuse it’s taken. It takes about 90 days to really clear your head and start thinking clearly. You can’t tell you’re not thinking clearly before then because - obviously - you’re not thinking clearly. This is the reason that the relapse rate drops dramatically after 90 days.

“Just don’t drink today” is all you have to do. If that doesn’t work, try “Just don’t drink this hour” or “Just don’t drink right now” as they are perfectly acceptable options.

Now eventually, you’ll have to get back to living your life. This is when you can be surprised by your brain taking over and trying to kill you. I remember one time shortly before I quit (~26 years ago now!) and I looked up to find I’d walked into a liquor store when I had no intention of getting a drink! Still can’t explain that one.

Not sure why anyone would say they “can’t join AA.” I understand it’s not for everyone, but it’s also full of people who will understand everything you’ve done, everything you’re thinking, and everything you’re worried about because they’ve done those things, thought those things, and worried about those things themselves. It’s the safest, most comfortable place you’ll ever find.

Lots of other women in AA you can trust with your life, who will be your best friends if you’ll let them. Believe me, you’re not the only young mother drinking and stressing out. You’ve taken the first step and realized you need to change your life. That’s already a big deal. Just keep going that direction.

There is a book called “Living Sober” that is basically a list of pro tips on how to avoid taking that first drink. Give it a try.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0916856046/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_yNUJDb7PZYMRR

u/Tryin2improve · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

This Naked Mind: Control Alcohol: Find Freedom, Rediscover Happiness & Change Your Life (Volume 1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/0996715002/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_HOzsxb3ABYBB4

This helped me when I was in your predicament.
Wish you the best

u/ItStartsAgain · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

Amazon: kindle($3.91), paperback($5.33), hard cover ($13.23).

Based on your realization (not drinking is winning against alcohol) I think you'd really enjoy it and find its perspective helpful. Congrats on your day 3!

u/embryonic_journey · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

I was a walking anger bomb for the first couple months. I'm more in control now. You've got lots of good suggestions in the replies. Here are some specifics that helped me:

  • The ABCs from SMART Recovery. They can be adapted easily for anger. Burn's "Feeling Good" has a good chapter on anger, and the ABCs are a more recent version of the tools he outlines. Feeling Good was the best $5 I've spent on Amazon.

  • The Headspace meditation app works for me. There are lots of good guided meditations, but I like having the app on my phone, with reminders and other features. Let me know if you like it, because I have coupons.

  • Breathe2Relax was another useful app.

  • 123 Magic is the parenting/discipline book we've read more than once. But my oldest is only 5. The book is a lot about focusing on YOUR behavior.
u/International_State · 3 pointsr/stopdrinking

Drinking: A Love Story: Caroline Knapp: 8601405550613: Books ...


https://www.amazon.ca/Drinking-Love-Story-Caroline-Knapp/dp/0385315546

Review. "Caroline Knapp is a rare writer, with a sophisticated, beautifully controlled style. Drinking not only describes a triumph; it is one."\^"A remarkable ...

u/duppyconquerer · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

Check out Drinking: A Love Story. It's an entertaining, beautifully written memoir, and I think you'll find a few parallels to your own life.

u/VictoriaElaine · 3 pointsr/stopdrinking

I have on my bedside table a few things I read everyday.

  1. The Language of Letting Go Melody Beattie is a fantastic woman and I love her daily meditations!

  2. Wherever You Go, There You Are By John Kabat-Zinn. This book revolutionized the way I look at the world. It changed me.

  3. Big Book of AA. I read the stories. That book feels like home to me.

    I also journal and actually practice mindfulness meditation on a daily basis.

    I don't follow any spiritual or religious paths (I'm not a Buddhist or anything).
u/PrimusSkeeter · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

I realized when I was 24 that I had a problem as well. I went through a series of quits and relapses. Each time, failing because I felt I could go back to being a social drinker. I am now 38. I have now learned, that this problem won't just go away. This isn't something that is just "okay, you've done your 28 days, you're cured!" You will have to work at this. You've already made the first step, accepted you have a problem and need to stop. Good for you. Some people it takes a lot longer, if ever.

​

My advice, come here, read the stories everyday. In time you will be able to provide your own support and advice for others. In turn, the new people will remind you of where you came from and why you never want to go back to drinking. At least that is how it works for me.

​

I recommend you read Allen Carr's - Easy Way to Stop drinking it may give you a different perspective on what drinking is. If you are anything like me, you are far down the rabbit hole and your mind is really messed up.

Good luck. :)

u/finally_woken · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

That's a great question - there was a thread recently on this topic: How did YOU get through the first few days?. My response:

  • I remembered when I had food poisoning once, and figured I'd just weather it out in a similar way.

  • I told my husband and doctor of my intention.

  • I made a rough battle plan.

  • I poured out half-empties and took all my empties to the recycling to symbolise a fresh start.

  • I stocked up on 30 bottles of sparkling water - having that was so helpful, it was waiting for me when I got home, I'd drink it whenever I had an urge (the very first thing I'd do getting home).

  • I distracted lots - gaming mostly, reading, netflix.

  • I downloaded this book and started working through the first chapters and CBT tools.

  • I tried eating as well as possible, including oatmeal for breakfast.

  • I rested loads, early nights, I went through the motions of sleep even when sleep evaded me. I tried a relaxation technique, focusing on my breathing, and relaxing each part of my body from toe to head and back.

    My withdrawal symptoms were relatively mild - but I sure don't want to go through them again. I sweat profusely, didn't really sleep, felt like rubbish, had cravings. I just wanted to get through them and then put distance between me and my last drink. There's more on withdrawals in the FAQ linked in the sidebar.
u/kitog · 3 pointsr/stopdrinking

I did a 6 week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course last year which covered a number of different relaxation and meditation practices and I find it helpful to mix them up; they include body scans, yoga and sitting meditation.

Here as some of the recommended books from the course

Being Zen

Wherever You There Are


There is a whole series of talks and practices available for free @
Audio Dharma

BTW, this is my first post to stopdrinking - sober for 12 days

u/Olivares_ · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

Cutting back doesn't really work, as far as I'm concerned. Once you're at that point, you really need absitence. Books help, sure. You shouldn't rely on them. Have you read this book? I'd check it out if you haven't. It really resonates with alcoholics, especially me

Drinking: A Love Story https://www.amazon.com/dp/0385315546/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Q5VNybFP0FQ67

u/InbredNoBanjo · 5 pointsr/stopdrinking

That's the secret. Here's a thread from several months ago, where I shared my experiences with this issue, around OP's age. I didn't quite make it to the bridge. But I still had the epiphany.

>So what is the point in prolonging this awful, muted, sober existence?

I'm going to get truckloads of shit for this. But it sounds to me like you need to go drink. As much as your body can stand. If alcohol drinking is truly as euphoric as you describe, do it.

By the way, have you read this book, which is linked in the SD sidebar? It helped me pierce through the utopian fantasies, mostly advertising-induced, which I'd associated with alcohol.

u/IndependentRoad5 · 3 pointsr/stopdrinking

This clip may be helpful. The documentary is very good. The person in this clip, Gabor Mate, also has an excellent book you might be interested. Fair warning it has Louis CK in the first part of the video.

u/StuddedMohawk · 6 pointsr/stopdrinking

May I recommend something?


Allen Carr's Quit Drinking Without Willpower: Be a happy nondrinker (Allen Carr's Easyway) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1784045411/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_zVzTDbNM4W65J

I read this book. It's not available as audio book so I sat and binge read it. You can drink while you read it if you desire, but if you are in the stage of your life where you want to quit and you read this book, by the end of it you will never want to drink again and it takes absolutely no will power. I don't have a desire to drink... It basically unbrainwashed me.

Just offering help in the way I know how to. I'm happy for you and your future!

u/Worsel77 · 5 pointsr/stopdrinking

allen carr the easy way to stop drinking:

https://www.amazon.com/Easy-Way-Stop-Drinking/dp/1402736479

also check out 'this naked mind.' there is a free download on the right hand side bar of this site.

u/tenjed · 5 pointsr/stopdrinking

> I'm going to go home, and be alone with my scary thoughts and just let the pain in. And I'll probably cry but that's okay, feelings are okay. I'm not going to be afraid of my feelings or think they're wrong or stupid and try to cover them up and drown them anymore.

I love this. From a distance its so easy to rationalize that external factors are not us - e.g. a dickhead customer's behavior does not have to be internalized - and that our own emotions are not reality - e.g. fear and stress are messages from our body. Sometimes we should listen to our emotions, sometimes we shouldn't. Either way they're not reality outside our own heads. But when you're in it, it's so hard to keep that perspective.

I really liked Allen Carr's discussion of self-soothing with slippers, cozy pajamas, a cup of cocoa, a good book or favorite TV show and a comfortable chair after work instead of a six pack.

u/dancing-lobsters · 5 pointsr/stopdrinking

Sidebar! Otherwise, I met Mark Lewis in October at the MN Nobel Peace Conference on Addiction.

There's a couple of books such as:

The Biology of Desire (Lewis), Memoirs of an Addicted Brain (Lewis), In The Realm of Hungry Ghosts (Mate)

u/pitcher_plant · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

The current version is Easy Way to Control Alcohol, but they are virtually identical.

For anyone interested, the kindle version is only $8... it's a quick read and has helped many SD'ers. Don't order the paper copy unless you're prepared to wait several weeks for it's arrival http://www.amazon.com/Allen-Carrs-Easy-Control-Alcohol/dp/0572028504

u/shakythrow · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

Check out this book. It completely changed my way of thinking and I have not had a single craving since I read it. I would recommend downloading the eBook so you can start reading it now. It has been the best four bucks I've ever spent.

u/Yakob218 · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

Holy cow the things we can do to ourselves. Glad you're sober and being better to yourself. On top of meditation and exercise Feeling Good by David Burns M.D. has helped me out a lot.

u/CleanLiving_1 · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

This works for me. Even thinking of it without picking it up works. But it requires doing the exercises, not just reading it. Those exercises can be difficult, but worth it.

It’s fairly old school, but there is an office down the street shared by a few youthful therapists. That book is prominently displayed on the shelf in the waiting room.

IWNDWYT

u/KetelYouAreBlack · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

I have been thinking about posting this same thing for some time, so if I may I will pile on your post. Duhigg's book is really eye-opening as to the power that habit holds in our lives. Combine that with Carr and you really have some powerful tools.

Here's a link to the title on Amazon: (sorry if there is shorter way to post it)

http://www.amazon.com/Power-Habit-What-Life-Business/dp/081298160X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1425664756&sr=8-1&keywords=duhigg

I found that my worst cravings happen in habitual circumstances - location, social situation, HALT triggers. All habit. Third part of book relates to corporate habits, but first two sections really give you insight into how your brain influences your behavior without you being aware of it.

Tony Robbins also has some great insight on habit, for those looking further.

u/BadgerFort · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

I found
Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn to be a good intro and didn't get too much into the religious side. I'd call it a more practical approach. There's also r/meditation but I think they can be a bit dogmatic at times and get too caught up in their specific qbrand of meditation. The FAQ there is a good place if you want something you can look at right this minute.

u/Bit_Scream · 5 pointsr/stopdrinking

Reminds me of a book called "Drinking: A Love Story" by Caroline Knapp (1997). Worth checking out for anyone into reading about alcoholism from a female perspective:

https://www.amazon.com/Drinking-Love-Story-Caroline-Knapp/dp/0385315546/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1519265792&sr=8-1&keywords=drinking+love+story

u/Its-A-Kind-Of-Magic · 2 pointsr/stopdrinking

Try Allen Carr's Easy Way to Control Alcohol.
http://www.amazon.com/Allen-Carrs-Easy-Control-Alcohol/dp/0572028504

His book 'Easy Way to Quit Drinking' is essentially the same. That's the one I bought and it transformed how I view alcohol. I'm not deprived by not drinking, I'm free!

u/TwentyYearLush · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

Get this book!
http://www.amazon.com/Allen-Carrs-Easy-Control-Alcohol/dp/0572028504
It is available on audible too.
I credit Allen with my initial success during the most difficult days.
It's really worth getting.

u/yulyeg · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

Wherever you go, there you are I think it's only running away if you believe that moving will automatically make everything better. You have to change you. No amount of external influence will make you better or worse.

In practical terms, will you need to leave town if you lose your job, in order to get another good job? If you can keep this job it seems like an excellent turning point for your life - an opportunity instead of a disaster.

u/RebootedLife · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

Been there including hospitalization for depression. The trick that worked for me was to find good distractions to get my mind off of negative ruminating and just better thinking in general (more below). Video games, a significant other, biking, and alcohol worked (until recently for alcohol). For the last decade I have been depression free and mostly happy.

Have you looked into CBT? If you cannot afford or don't want to see a therapist this is a great way to start feeling better right away! https://www.amazon.com/Feeling-Good-New-Mood-Therapy/dp/0380810336

u/somehiddenname · 5 pointsr/stopdrinking

I'll tell you what, I own this book, it's in mint condition (and I can absolutely prove it). If you want this book, I'll send it to you. I have no use for it and was going to post if anybody wants it. However, I want to send it to someone who is absolutely sure they want to stop. My only thing would be that you pass it along to someone else after you're completely sure of yourself. If you don't want it, I'll post a new thread.

u/justahabit · 4 pointsr/stopdrinking

Plans for the future? A few people have asked me that and I don't know the answer. I'm about to buy Allen Carr's "Quit Drinking" book, which I expect to help me out when it arrives in a few days.

Other than that I'm not sure.

u/EarthRocker_ · 1 pointr/stopdrinking

"I know there’s no easy way to get through it"

But there is an easy way.

Allen Carr's Easyway:

https://www.amazon.com/Stop-Drinking-Allen-Carrs-Easyway/dp/1784045411

All you have to do is read it and see how you feel afterwards.

It's ok to be skeptical but it has worked for many, including myself.

u/bustload · 3 pointsr/stopdrinking

I've been reading the book that is linked to in the sidebar of this subreddit, Alan Carr's Easy Way to Control Alcohol http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0572028504
At first it sounds all sales-pitchy, but once he really gets into it, he takes you through a logical argument against drinking alcohol and it has helped me quite a bit in a short time. He is very anti-AA, so I definitely recommend giving it a look.