Today’s Sober Story comes from Monnie, a 46-year-old living in Auckland.
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Mrs D: How long have you been sober?
Monnie: 3 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 even now after 3 years 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: Wow that’s epic! 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 ….
Thank you for sharing your story Monnie. I am in my 3rd year also. It is wonderful to be done with the hold of alcohol and free to enjoy life. Congrats!
Thanks so much for sharing your sober story! Very powerful and reassuring.
I am nearing the 12 months mark, and feel like emotionally it is JUST starting to really calm for good.
oxoxoxx
Thanks Monnie. People like you are so inspirational – thanks for sharing!
Thanks heaps Temperance. The weight loss was quite amazing I think it was all the sugar that I was consuming 🙂
Thanks Monnie!! Congrats on 3 years! So great you turned your life around. That was my wake up call too, knew if I kept drinking, it would destroy me. You are an awesome inspiration. : )
Thanks JM
Hi there Monnie! Thank you so much for sharing. I relate to so much, except for the weight loss dang it! I have 3 years too.