Sober Story: Monnie

Today’s Sober Story comes from Monnie, a 52-year-old living in Auckland.

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Mrs D: How long have you been sober?

Monnie: 9 years (yay).

Mrs D: What can you tell us about your drinking before you quit?

Monnie: I was drinking 2 bottles a night , blacking out and spending way to much on the credit card. It started to impact negatively on those around me.

Mrs D: What happened that you decided to quit?

Monnie: My doctor said I would be dead by 50 if I didn’t stop as my liver was in such a bad state. This was a major wake-up call – and I decided to take action before a decision was made for me.

Mrs D: Good on you! How did it go at first?

Monnie: The first few days were terrible and very hard. I loved my wine and given it’s so socially acceptable and everywhere, it was awful.

Mrs D: What reaction did you get from family & friends when you started getting sober?

Monnie: Mostly encouragement but I did lose a few friends.

Mrs D: Have you ever experienced a relapse?

Monnie: No

Mrs D: How long did it take for things to start to calm down for you emotionally & physically?

Monnie: It took at least 12 months mentally but physically a few weeks ( clear head and more energy)

Mrs D: How hard was it getting used to socialising sober?

Monnie: That is the hardest and still is really . So many places don’t cater for non–drinkers.

Mrs D: Was there anything surprising that you learned about yourself when you stopped drinking?

Monnie: Much more energy, wasn’t having to worry about what I did the night before, and trying to find out who I am really.

Mrs D: How did your life change?

Monnie: I’m much healthier.

Mrs D: What are the main benefits that emerged for you from getting sober?

Monnie: I lost 15 kilos of weight.

Mrs D: Would you do anything differently given the chance to go through the process again?

Monnie: Maybe get professional help in the beginning as I have done it all myself with the help of my GP. Cold Turkey on your own is pretty hard.

Mrs D: What advice or tips would you have for those who are just starting on this journey?

Monnie: Ask for help- don’t be afraid and involve your doctor.

Mrs D: Anything else you’d like to share?

Monnie: Thanks to Mrs D – you were a great help and awesome inspiration. You actually made me change. If I hadn’t seen you on the TV then I probably would still be drinking thinking I didn’t have a problem ….