‘Functional alcoholic’ is a meaningless term – I was a drunk

'Functional alcoholic' is a meaningless term: I was a drunk  The Telegraph

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Oct 2, 2023 - 03:00
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‘Functional alcoholic’ is a meaningless term – I was a drunk

On the Path to Recovery: A Personal Journey

Introduction

July 2020 was a turning point in my life. After a week off sick from my job as an A&E healthcare assistant, I found myself at rock bottom. The empty wine bottles and glasses from the night before were a stark reminder of my destructive habits. At 48 years old, I was consuming three bottles of wine a day, accompanied by shots of rum. My health was deteriorating rapidly, and I knew I had to make a change.

The Journey Begins

Sober October and Dry January had never worked for me. I was a functional alcoholic, constantly telling myself that I was okay because I could still function in my daily life. But deep down, I knew I was just masking the truth. My relationship with alcohol started at a young age, as a coping mechanism for the trauma I experienced. It became a crutch that I relied on throughout my life.

  1. Early Experiences
    • At 11 years old, I turned to alcohol after a traumatic incident.
    • I grew up in an environment where alcohol was readily available.
    • I used alcohol to escape feelings of loneliness and insecurity.
  2. Escaping Reality
    • In my late teens, I found solace in the music industry where drinking and drug use were normalized.
    • I struggled with social interactions and used alcohol to fit in.
    • My drinking escalated as I entered my 30s, working in a high-stress environment.
  3. The Downward Spiral
    • I witnessed traumatic events during my night shifts in the emergency department.
    • My drinking became more secretive, affecting my relationships and finances.
    • I hit rock bottom during the pandemic, realizing the impact of my addiction on my health and family.

A New Beginning

July 26, 2020 marked the start of my sobriety journey. I made the decision to quit drinking cold turkey, despite the physical and emotional challenges that came with it. Attending 12-Step meetings provided me with the support and accountability I needed to stay on track. I also transitioned into a new career in drug and alcohol services, where I could use my personal experience to help others.

Embracing a Sober Life

Being sober has transformed my life in unimaginable ways. I no longer rely on alcohol to cope with daily challenges. Instead, I channel my energy into supporting others through my social media platform, @ASoberLady, where I have gained a following of 22,800 individuals seeking inspiration and guidance.

  • Health Improvements
    • I have experienced significant improvements in my physical and mental health.
    • The bloating and other negative effects of alcohol are no longer present.
    • I have lost weight and regained my vitality.
  • Reconnecting with Family
    • I cherish the moments I can now share with my daughters, free from the grip of alcohol.
    • My family has witnessed my transformation and supports my journey to recovery.
  • Advocacy and Support
    • I use my platform to raise awareness about addiction and provide support to those in need.
    • I am a proud supporter of NACOA, an organization that helps children affected by their parent’s drinking.

A Bright Future

Looking back on my journey, I am grateful for the strength and determination that led me to sobriety. Each day is a reminder of the progress I have made and the impact I can have on others. As I continue on this path, I am committed to promoting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to health and well-being, as well as reducing inequalities and promoting responsible consumption and production.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

SDGs Addressed or Connected to the Issues Highlighted in the Article:

  1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
  2. SDG 5: Gender Equality
  3. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
  4. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
  5. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

Specific Targets Based on the Article’s Content:

  • Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol.
  • Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation.
  • Target 8.8: Protect labor rights and promote safe and secure working environments for all workers, including migrant workers, in particular women migrants, and those in precarious employment.
  • Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
  • Target 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere.

Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article:

  • Indicator 3.5.1: Coverage of treatment interventions (pharmacological, psychosocial, and rehabilitation and aftercare services) for substance use disorders.
  • Indicator 5.2.1: Proportion of ever-partnered women and girls aged 15 years and older subjected to physical, sexual, or psychological violence by a current or former intimate partner in the previous 12 months.
  • Indicator 8.8.1: Frequency rates of fatal and non-fatal occupational injuries, by sex and migrant status.
  • Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex, and persons with disabilities.
  • Indicator 16.1.1: Number of victims of intentional homicide per 100,000 population, by sex and age.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

SDGs Targets Indicators
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol. Indicator 3.5.1: Coverage of treatment interventions (pharmacological, psychosocial, and rehabilitation and aftercare services) for substance use disorders.
SDG 5: Gender Equality Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation. Indicator 5.2.1: Proportion of ever-partnered women and girls aged 15 years and older subjected to physical, sexual, or psychological violence by a current or former intimate partner in the previous 12 months.
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth Target 8.8: Protect labor rights and promote safe and secure working environments for all workers, including migrant workers, in particular women migrants, and those in precarious employment. Indicator 8.8.1: Frequency rates of fatal and non-fatal occupational injuries, by sex and migrant status.
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status. Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income, by age, sex, and persons with disabilities.
SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions Target 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere. Indicator 16.1.1: Number of victims of intentional homicide per 100,000 population, by sex and age.

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: telegraph.co.uk

 

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