My Personal Journey to Drying Out | Achieving Sobriety | 🇬🇧 United Kingdom Experience Alcoholism
- I'm James, and I want to share my journey to sobriety with you. I hope my experience can offer insights and support for those facing similar struggles, wherever you call home 🌎
Understanding Alcoholism in the UK
- In the United Kingdom, it's estimated that around 10% of Brits struggle with alcoholism. Sadly, alcoholism can take a significant toll on individuals and their families, causing widespread devastation.
Generational Impact of Alcoholism
- In my case, I had an alcoholic great-grandfather. While it didn't directly affect me, it likely impacted my grandparents, who may have passed on their experiences to my mum. Alcoholism's impact can ripple through generations. The impact of my Alcoholism is immense, not only on myself, but those closest to me. This includes those I chose to leave behind, most notably my partner of many years.
Considering Seasonality in Recovery
- Seasonality played an unexpected role in my recovery. I hit rock bottom in June, and as someone who suffers from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), I wondered how I would have fared if I'd attended rehab in November.
My Fortunate Timing for Recovery
- Fortunately, I believe luck was on my side. I underwent four weeks of live-in rehab in England during June, followed by four months of personalized aftercare in Scotland during the summer. This timing aligned well with my needs for the best After Care I could create for myself, firstly in Scotland.
Family Home | Trossachs National Park | Dogs facing Flanders Moss + Stirling Castle | Scotland. My Main Carer | ex partner enjoys operating the home as part of his own recovery journey. 1 of the highest rated BNB’S on booking, Globally!
Choosing the Right Environment
- Recognising my need for sun and warmth as my first Winter approached I found myself in North West Tenerife in October 2020. This location became another haven for my recovery and personal growth at the age of 44. I have not yet returned to Scotland.
TENERIFE | CASA SALVIA BNB ICOD
Advice for Your Journey to Sobriety
- While I don't suggest delaying your recovery, consider the timing that suits you best. Whether you're in the UK or elsewhere, aim to give yourself the best chance for success in your journey to get and stay dry | sober.
Advocating for Improved Treatment Centres
- One of my goals is to encourage both public and privately funded treatment centers to become more selective in admitting patients. Let's strive for better success rates and embrace cutting-edge technologies to improve everyone's chances of a successful life in recovery from Alcoholism.
Resources in the UK
- For those in the UK who require immediate medical attention, there are options available. Some NHS facilities can provide the necessary care. A full list of private rehabilitation facilities can be found here.
Personal Reflection on My Journey
- I will soon post a blog on the Costs of Achieving Sobriety, sharing my financial and time-related experiences.
Closing Thoughts
- I'm James, @sobergaygolfer, and I've been sober for 3 years and 3 months. I'm not just a recovering alcoholic; I'm also a thought leader in alcoholism + disruptor. We all deserve the best chance of success living a dry life.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story and insights.
I'm here to offer complimentary and private one-on-one WhatsApp video calls daily from 7 am to 8 am GMT. Reach out to me through this website to book a 30 minute chat.
James
@sobergaygolfer
Written 3 years 3 months dry
26 years Alcoholic (18-44)
1 year supporting a relapsing alcoholic