Trying not to drink

[Anonymous]

For overall health and weight control (I'm trying to lose 15-20 lbs of Covid weight) I am trying not to drink unless I'm out in a social situation and have the opportunity for a good drink. Not drinking at home. I've never been a huge drinker but DH and I used to drink a glass or wine or a cocktail maybe 3-4 nights a week at home. Definitely have cut back a ton and haven't had a drink at home in weeks.

This weekend has been HARD. One kid has stayed home from school since Wednesday, tested positive for Covid on Friday. Another kid refused to go to school because of bullying on Wednesday, went Thursday after a LOT of discussion, stayed home again Friday because they complained of "feeling sick" and with one covid-positive kid I didn't want to take chances. Third kid is healthy (thankfully) but being especially needy right now... DH has been alternatively semi manic about getting things done/cleaning up at home - we were supposed to travel this weekend to see his mom but had to cancel due to Covid - and alternatively sitting on the couch with the kids watching a lot of tv. I've been cooking a ton and waiting on the kid with Covid and cleaning up after everyone... and I'm really sick of it.

So last night and tonight I really wanted to sit down with a nice glass of wine and relax... but I didn't... Instead I cleaned something else, baked and made a cup of tea.

I just feel like I needed to vent and get that out there. Any support or solidarity appreciated.

[Anonymous]

That’s great! congrats! I suggest you read/follow “Quit like a woman” which will give you a ton of inspiration. I have a bunch of sober living socials that I follow so it normalizes less/no drinking. Podcasts too!

[Anonymous]

Good job ... you powered through on a challenging night!

Seltzer can often make me feel like I'm having something special. Hang in there!

[Anonymous]

That's great! Congratulations! It's so much more the ritual of having the drink in your hand, I think, so replacing with tea and distracting yourself with other things is smart. You did it when it was really hard - so you'll continue to be able to do it.

[Anonymous]

Thanks! I made it through the tough weekend. Out tonight though for parent night at school and then dinner with friends… I might have a drink but I haven’t decided yet.

[Anonymous]

You can do it, OP! What’s helped me cut back is having a ready supply of non-alcoholic beverages I really enjoy, like different seltzers, tea, etc. Put one of those in a pretty glass or cozy mug and it’s a-okay. I’ve also had some success with non-alcoholic beers. Even just a few sips hits the spot for taste; after that, I usually no longer want the rest of it.

[Anonymous]

You did it dang

[Anonymous]

Love it! Cutting back and/or quitting can be harder than people realize, even for those of us who don’t fit the profile of problem drinkers, so good for you for making efforts to improve your health.