IDK what to believe anymore. I was trying to research this and of course because the billion dollar rehab industry is against it, I'm sus - even though the arguments against are pretty logical.
Anyone have any experience with this personally or with a loved one?
Lot of old timers at the club (AA) say it will trigger relapse and for some it does. My friend started smoking it because he had nausea and lack of appetite from his medication for his dying liver. My other friend is an addict, coke, fentynal, meth... and he relapsed because of weed and has to avoid it. I quit drinking and I smoke weed sometimes when I feel like it.
Pretty much depends on the person. Are you an alcoholic? I'm here if you need fren, I have some advice. Some say to avoid ANYTHING, no caffeine even but that's bullshit to me. Mushrooms, weed, LSD, red bull, coffee, pain killers... I can do anything without a problem. I have a problem with alcohol, nothing else. Women, angry people, bars, parties and idle time are way bigger triggers for me to want a drink. You may be different.
It's not me, a family member. I am out of suggestions I guess he just doesn't want to stop. Just lost a friend to this disease went to her memorial this weekend. I wouldn't wish this addiction on my worst enemy.
That's exactly it, you have to want it. First time I went a year sober because of a DUI, was always figuring out ways... had to "leave town" etc.
Second time I did it for others, pretended I wanted to be sober to get my family off my back about it.
Third time I really wanted it for myself, admitted I was powerless blah blah blah. Then my my brain started playing tricks on me. I started thinking that if I quit for a year I must not be an alcoholic, I can control it and just have a few beers when out to eat. Next day I'm grabbing a six-pack, day after a twelve pack and next thing you know you're hiding a bottle in your desk at work.
I go to AA now not because I need the steps, sponsor or fellowship to stay sober, I need to hear that guy crying because his wife took the kids and left or the guy who just got out of prison for running someone over while wasted. I need that reminder of how shitty my life could be if I cave into my desire. I am more productive, save a TON of money and don't feel like shit every morning now. I just tell everyone I'm allergic to alcohol when they invite me out, tell them I got tired of breaking out in handcuffs from too many drinks.
They gotta hit rock bottom usually to want to change, I'm fortunate that it didn't take me loosing everything to want sobriety.