How do I overcome alcoholism?
This isn’t as simple as just asking ‘how’ and getting an immediate answer that comes with immediate effect. Alcoholism is a complicated disease and for one suffering with this disease, it will take courage and lifelong commitment to live a clean and sober life, a life that will come with new found serenity and new found self worth. But it takes courage to reach that point of acceptance and serenity. It all starts with asking for help.
Asking for help, possibly the hardest thing that us humans can do and possibly the bravest, no one likes to admit that they need help and sometimes, if an alcoholic cannot ask for it (be it because of severe denial or simply because of their pride) an intervention can take place with family member and a professional where the person is forced to see that they in fact, need help.
Once the idea of getting help has sunk in, there are many ways of going about getting it. The best possible way is to of course, go into a rehabilitation centre. (What are a few weeks of your life in a treatment facility as opposed to giving up your entire life, family and dreams just for the bottle?) If a rehabilitation centre is not an option for you than get yourself to daily Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings in your area. AA is a fellowship or support group for those who suffer from alcoholism. This is a place to gain support, be inspired to live a clean life and offers you a 12 step program that will keep you on the path of recovery and sobriety.
A counsellor or therapist can also be used for guidance and gives you a safe place to talk about your past, your disease and your cravings. Sharing your fears with others will help you prolong your recovery and help in keeping you clean.
It all starts with getting help. Once you have had the courage to do what is needed to put you back onto the path of ‘living’ it is up to you to do whatever is needed to stay clean and serene. There is help out there for you and you are never alone with your disease.
Never.