One thing about me is I’ve spent all my years of my 20’s so far just partying and being around people that do that too. So when I don’t drink anymore I have the feeling of fear of missing out. I know I can’t drink because I can’t control myself once I start. But it just sucks like why am I like this? And not like everyone else that can have just a drink and not binge. Just sucks. I feel lonley and like I’m going to loose a lot of my friends because I do draw into peer pressure so easily and I can’t be around them during my new sober life.
Is there a type of hobby you could try out or get back into that would surround you with new people? For me it will be when I start esthetics at the beauty college and I plan on signing up for dance classes. I’m a full time single autism mom so I’m used to seclusion…but I definitely relate when I would go out I’d always be the one to drink so much so fast…basically guaranteed black out every time. It sucks
To be honest I’ve been in the same boat as you I know literally have to stop going out with my friends because if I do I know I will just give in and iam back to square one again
Unfortunately I think you need to cut friends from your life if your not able to socialise with them at the miniute maybe some day you will feel confident enough that you can go back socialising again
What do you genuinely want in your friendships? Some people want deep connections, while others want surface level interactions at most. Are the people you call “friends” now people who fit what you really want?
Often times people who disappear after we let go of the same addiction were never actually our friends if the only thing in common that matters is that addiction.
Since you like going out and having fun, think of activities you do enjoy and find groups in your area to meet new people. There will be a different “flavor” to all the sober fun, but soon you may realize that flavor is something you prefer.
It is hard to let go when you know its what’s best for you. Good luck.
Your pack will change as you grow. Im lucky enough to be able to handle being around alcohol and also have the respect of a few who understand why i choose not to.
Definitely find a hobby and attract a new crowd. May you find a but more happiness
Yeah I have hobbie like snowboarding and the season is coming up but a lot of the people I went up with would have beers and drink and I can’t be around that now. But I need to maybe get to the gym again. I have wanted to start dance classes but too shy too. I’m not used to being secluded. I’ve always been a social butterfly so hard to me not to be social. Plus it’s hard to make new friends at 27 I feel. I’m in college now but a lot of people I met there drink this just feels so lonley rn and I know I need to do this because I’ve burnt a lot of bridges because of my drinking.
Yeah it really hard to be around those friends rn because they are heavy drinkers and parties. I have to keep my distance and what sucks is some of them aren’t as supportive as I thought they would be they say things like “ oh you’ve tried to do this before and that didn’t work out” just sucks because I know I’ll have to move on from them but it’ll be for the better just gotta power through because this first 3 days have been brutal.
Thank you for the response and support! I really do want more genuine connections and to find friendships on a deeper level or friends that will go do outdoor activities with me keep my mind busy. Unfortunately right now since it’s early and I’m only on day 3 it’s been really hard when temptation is around me I mean of of my friends lives with me and I thought she’d be more supportive but isn’t. I got to do this I know it’s best for me in the long run just soo difficult as I crave it and the feeling of numbing my anxiety and emotions
Thank you I definitely am going to an my first AA meeting this weekend and I’m nervous but I hope I meet some great people there I can connect with in person! Maybe one day I’ll be able to be around it but for now I can’t!
To use an old cliche: We have to build ourselves a life we don’t feel the need to run and hide from. Yes it’s work. Lots of it. It’s life. For me life has never been easy but since I quit trying to numb it all it has become so much better. Not necessarily easier. But endlessly better. Keep going lady, you’re doing great. Hugs.
Hugs back!! Thank you so much for your words I love them and very encouraging.
Hi, my advice is to find some clubs/organisations in your area where you can meet people, such as a dancing classes, book clubs, cooking/baking, yoga, swimming, walking, running etc.
There is plenty we can do without drinking, but we have not yet explored these options because we’ve always socialised in bars or similar, so it is a difficult transition. I’m finding it super hard myself, and anxiety inducing, but i joined a book club and i am enjoying it!
That’s another red flag for me are they really your friends or people you need to be around when that’s what they think aswell.
Unfortunately on recovery I’ve realised you can’t just change a few things and hope for the best you have to change your whole way of life and that means basically stopping alot of the things you use to do unfortunately
Is there any activity you would like to try that you might be able to meet new friends at I’d recommend even starting to attend a few meetings in your area
I wish you all the best in your recovery you got this
The only thing you’re missing out on by not attending this is a healthy meaningful life.
It takes time to learn who you really are. Creating goals, finding hobbies, growing a healthy support system.
You are not living a life that has meaning when you are too intoxicated to remember it or feel it.
You got this!
A book club sounds like a lot of fun to do! I used to be on the swim team maybe I should join an adult team! I’m just so shy doing things alone sometimes! Sounds like you are doing good though keep up the good work
Thank you and yes I’m attention first AA meeting this weekend I’m nervous but I have a friend that said she would go sit with me because I’m shy to go alone. I’m going to do some more searching in clubs or fun sober activities that happen around me because I definitely need the distraction. It is a red flag and I unfortunately will have to leave that friendship in the past just sucks because we have been friends for like 8 years!
Thanks for the support! I’m glad I have this app it’s been so helpful soo far! You guys are all so kind
I see that I’m already going to have to let go of some of my friends too. Maybe think of different interests you have. And use the meet up app to go to some events that aren’t alcohol related. My issue is the binging as well. Good luck!
I feel like you might be the first of your party friends to admit they have a problem with alcohol. But over time your friends won’t be able to keep up the party lifestyle. Proud of you for not drinking! One day at a time! In my opinion most people are really only focused on their own drinking…
Thats good that you are going attending meetings they do help alot i have founs them great habe veen attending AA & CA meetings they can be daunting at the start but you will get use to it remember everybody there either was or is in the same situation as you are now