Addiction Experience: University Lecturer
Home Treatment afforded me an opportunity to address my problems. I cannot safely use alcohol at present. I learnt that from the four drinking sessions (during the treatment period) very well. I could continue with my business and programme. I can see the advantages of working with recovering addicts and alcoholics though I would also have been able to accept a competent worker with wider skills if I was presented with such a person. The ability to empathise is only part of the treatment process. I was able to identify with some recovering alcoholics sharing of their previous histories. The treatment programme was recommended by a friend. I thought that I would give it a go. It worked for me. I have been sober for the whole time with the exception of four days. I had one bad drinking session for a day and three other minor sessions. My tolerance to alcohol is now far less than before, which worries me. It is definitely worth continuing - I have enjoyed success in that it has cut my drinking down to just four days in twenty-six weeks. Alcohol is less attractive to me and it does not have the same effect. My father is an alcoholic and my wife nags me. My friends supported me and my Life Coach also supports me - which has been fantastic.
I now recognize alcoholism as an illness - the Addictions UK Treatment Programme has given me the longest period of sobriety I have experienced for ten years.
I was aware that when I worked at the University I had a drink problem. Cravings increase as you drink - you want more and more all the time. It is a structured suicide bid for some. We can kill ourselves as a result of our actions yet we cannot stop overnight. Now everyday is about my recovery. It is all about a change of attitude.
I was frightened - the alcohol kept me going I felt that I had gone beyond the point of no return. I needed to get off that roundabout. A turning point was needed in my life. I thought the bottle of alcohol would help me with my problems. This was false. I realised that I was going backwards I should not drink. Now my life has changed for the better I can see the real issues in life thanks to this programme.
I now treat other alcoholics with respect. I now understand the nature of the illness. I am too willing to help others and not myself. I do voluntary work at the local hospital and I look for new opportunities to learn and train all the time and thus help myself.
