[Softballjunkie8]

Hey everyone! I hope to quit drinking and smoking in the next month. I want to focus on be a healthier person. I guess I have a few questions.

First with drinking...I have been an on and off drinker for a while now. I will go 2 or 3 days without anything and then binge on beer for like 4 days. I know this is extremely unhealthy and I need to get a hold on it. My question regarding this is about withdrawals. If I can go a few days without it does that mean my withdrawal will not be so bad? I know this sounds silly but I am really nervous about having something go wrong when I quit for a prolonged period of time...if that makes sense.

Second with smoking...I am debating if I should quit cigarettes and drinking at the same time or quit one first. I think quitting both would be too much at one time. But then again I have been cutting my cigs down to like 6 a day.

Just was wanting some feedback from anyone has went through anything similar...thanks!

[Altered Moment]

I don't think the withdrawal from alcohol is bad unless you were a very heavy drinker for many years. A psychiatrist in AA told me it takes six months for brain chemistry to get back to normal. The physical withdrawals are not bad at all.

The hardest part is the mental and emotional desire or need to drink. Why were you binge drinking? What purpose did it serve? How many years has it been going on? Do you think you are an alcoholic?

Good luck. I wish you success.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Softballjunkie8]

Thank you very much for your response. It's encouraging to know that the withdrawals should be minimal.

I drank a little in my late teens and then when I turned 21 I started drinking on the weekends. I am now 26 but between 21-26 I quit drinking and smoking for about 2 years.

My father last year was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer and it hit me hard. Before his diagnosis I was drinking when I went out or on the weekends. After the news I started drinking WAY more frequently and much more. I started smoking again and gained a significant amount of weight.

I guess that's my answer right there...I guess am not ready to accept the fact that he is so sick. I started also having anxiety issues. He has played a MAJOR role in my life and has always been there for me. I guess it makes me emotional he might be gone forever.

[spondiferous]

Hey Softball.
Although I would tend to agree that the withdrawals probably won't be bad (or too bad), it doesn't hurt to be prepared. You say that you have been able to go a few days without drinking but really that's only just enough time to get the alcohol out of your system from the last binge and get a healthy day or so in. You're still young so it should be okay, but please don't be afraid to seek medical assistance if you find it is more than you can handle. Alcohol withdrawals can be scary. (Not trying to freak you out or discourage you, just trying to help you prepare.)
As for the smoking thing, you're right that there are two schools of thought. It might be worth it to quit both at once, and see how that goes. I have done that in the past, with good results. The last time around however, I found it was too much and started back up smoking again with a couple of months of quitting drinking. But now I have been drink-free over 8 years, and smoke-free for 7. Find whatever approach - and support system - works for you, and use it.
Finally, I am very sorry to hear about your father. I wish you peace and light in these troubled times. Feel free to message me if you ever need someone to talk to, or just want to chat one on one. I usually check in at least once a day, usually multiple times. Take good care, and good luck with your efforts. Leaving drinking and smoking in the dust were two of the hardest things I've had to do but I really cannot stress enough how much better my life is now. I'm not even the same person. And none of it would have been possible if I hadn't chosen to get sober first.

[Altered Moment]

I am so sorry for you and your father. You are too young to have to deal with that. I think that is your answer. Have to figure out how to deal with it without alcohol as a crutch. Therapy could help or a support group.

My ex wifes father was just diagnosed with stage four lung cancer. I am very close to the family even though she is my ex. We have a daughter. We are 50 though and at that age you expect things a little more. Doesn't make it easier to deal with.

With your drinking history I wouldn't think you would have any problem. It is just dealing with your dad that is the issue.

[lone_77]

Quitting cigs was hard for me since I started young, but I managed to cut back and eventually stop. It's difficult though, because every time you see or smell a cigarette, or experience a stressor, the need comes back. It's hard, but doable. Sometimes finding other ways to release stress is helpful. For me it was singing, and that helped because I couldn't sing if I smoked too much (messed up my mouth and throat) and I like it much more than I liked cigarettes, so it motivates me to stay away from them.

I wish you the best. You have the most important tool, which is the desire to change. With that you can accomplish anything!

[Softballjunkie8]

Thank you all so very much for your responses. I have heard many times from other family and friends that I am handling the situation great for being so young...they have no idea! I "look" fine when they come around. Zinco sorry to hear someone close to you got lung cancer. It takes alot for them and the family to deal with!

I also started smoking very young. I did quit for almost 2 years...but picked it back up! Really hoping this time it'll be for good!

My dad somewhat knows about my drinking and smoking. He also mentioned therapy but I don't want him to worry. I also don't want to seem self-centered when he needs my help.

Once again thanks to everyone!

[emgreen]

I'm so sorry to hear about your father. The loss of a parent is among life's cruelest situations.

When I first started in AA, it was suggested to me that I shouldn't make any sudden, major changes in the first year of sobriety. I understand, however, that your father's illness provides ample incentive to quit.

Also, when I quit smoking I tallied up how much I spent a month on cigarettes. I smoked a pack a day at $6 a pack. When I did the math I figured out that I was paying $180 a month for my cigs. That $180 a month allowed me to afford a compact car loan. Now, each time I look at my car I picture a carton of cigs with four wheels on it. There's no way I could have afforded the car if I hadn't stopped.

For me, quitting drinking was job one...As my life was a mess & drinking to excess (especially if you're on meds) can worsen your mental health. Whatever you decide, I wish you luck. I'm sorry, again, about your father.

[defiantone]

Hiya softballjunkie8

I'm kinda wondering the same for myself. I am detoxing from the liquor now (day-3! i cant believe it) but I also smoke - heavily. People say I should just stop both at once. But in my head I think "are they kidding me?" -- like you, I don't think I could handle killin both addictions at the same time...least not till I got a grip on the liquor. I'm sure it's totally possible, have seen others do it. Good luck!! If yer gonna quit one first - I'd say the liquor is most immediately dangerous in my opinion. -steve