Hey John, welcome.
This place is very real to a lot of us. But it is only as real as you make it. If you want this space for light-hearted fun, it can be that. If you want it to be a place to vent your struggles, it can be that. Some people post as a journal to go back and see where they came from and how their mindset changed over time. It can be whatever you need it to be. That is where I find the beauty.
Here are a few threads :
Of course there are so many more that are worth checking out.
If you want to get sober you can. But so many of us need a shoulder to lean on, especially in the early days. Don’t feel ashamed to reach out for help. That’s what we’re here for 