What would you tell a friend that asked you: I want to quit booze (or drugs), I really do, but I need help
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Take your pride and fear by the hand and walk into an AA or NA meeting TODAY. Cancel the cookout or shopping spree. Online or in the phone book find the nearest meeting and BE THERE.
Tomorrow, go to another one. While your hand is shaking, raise it and let them know you’re a newcomer. Remember every single one of the people at the meeting were once at their first meeting, too. Ask someone who you seem to relate to for their phone number. Give them your phone #.
Today is the ONLY day you don’t pick up a drink (or a drug) Just today.
Eat chocolate.
Go to another meeting.
Try that for 7 days.
On the 8th day, go to a meeting.
If you’re confused and bewildered, remind yourself it’s normal, and go to another meeting.
The hours will turn into days..the days will turn into weeks, the weeks will turn into months. Fear and confusion will no longer permeate your being.
This is what I did, starting 25 years ago. I still do. So far it’s been working.
P.S. Remember, not one person getting sober ever died from lack of sleep. You WILL sleep again:)
Drop any of us a FReepmail, or post on this thread. We are happy to share our experience, strength and hope:)
“I want to quit booze (or drugs), I really do, but I need help...”
I’d take them to a professional for assessment to see which route would be the best for them. (Unfortunately, sometimes this needs to be done by force or an intervention. Abusers tend to change their minds on this once they’re sober for a few minutes; it’s easier being a drunk.)
And then I’d watch them fail a few times, until they truly have their “Ah-Ha! Moment” and get completely serious about it.
And then I’d support them in any way I could, while not losing myself (or my own marbles) in the process.
That’s pretty much what happened with my husband who is now clean and sober for close to 6 years now. :)