Bizi, :hug: :hug: :hug:

Maybe think of it as a break up?
It is hard in the beginning but it gets easier with time.
You will find new people do do things, new activities, . . .
Your tdoc is helpful.

Talk to your tdoc and pdoc about how bipolar comes into play.
I believe that many drinkers change after they get their meds straight.
In other words, sometimes THERE ARE NO REASONS to work on.
Those of us with bipolar who drink are not the same as non-bipolars who drink. -- and treatment SHOULD be different.


Mari

That's a good idea Mari. I agree. Think of it as a break up. I broke up from alcohol because it was not treating me right,but I was in a deep relationship with it. Not any more. I've moved on years ago. That chapter of my life is over. BF:hug::hug::hug:

It does get easier once you move past a certain hump(day/month/year),and a number of strengthening experiences where you didn't drink when you wanted to,but you said inside no to it,and then it gets much easier. It's in the persons individual timing. Not one person has the same experience. BF:hug::hug::hug:

one friend called him"Mr. Unsuitable" I like that, big bad wolfie sticks in my head, I still wear the "FU wolfie " bracelet 24/7.
bizi thank you for your continued support.
bizi

Bizi,

It would be difficult for me to stay focused on what I am NOT doing.
I would need to focus on what I AM doing.

Perhaps, in addition to the FU bracelet, wear one that says I love being AF -- or something like that.
Find a bracelet with a message that states your commitment (and happiness) to the choices you made.

M

I like Mari's Idea.

And I am so encouraged by your success.

Donna :hug::grouphug:

http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/...?id=563&page=2

article about how alcohol can ruin your weight loss goals.
And the fact that your body thinks alcohol is a posion and acts quickly to rid it from your body.
bizi

Dear Bizi,

That is a great article,

I was wondering if SEEING some rewards you give yourself would help?

Some people do things like make a charm bracelet like this:
http://www.etsy.com/search?q=charm%2...ery&ship_to=GB


charm 1 for deciding to be AF
charm 2 for three months AF
charm 3 for six months AF
charm 4 for nine months AF
. .. . . or something like that.

You could get refrigerator magnets, a key chaining, a neck lace ---- something that you can touch and see to remind you how great you are doing.

OR you could plan for an experience like a professional manicure or massage.

Anyway, I want you to know that I am thinking about you and your successes.

Mari

I did reward myself with a bracelet that is inscribed "FU wolfie" on the inside. I wear it all of the time as a reminder. Thanks for your kind words of support.
I appreciate you.
bizi

Bizi,

You are doing soo soo wonderfully! :trampoline:

Mari