Went to my first meeting. They basically made the meeting about me. Embraced me. Gave me the big book. Shared their stories. When they offered me the white chip I hesitated and honestly told them I was still struggling with identifying myself as a binge drinker instead of an alcoholic. They all completely empathized and encouraged me to take the chip anyway and, of course, come back. I will.
Bet you got a couple of welcome hugs too. Well, here's another one. I'd like to suggest you read "The Doctor Opinion" pg.XXV and to keep on going back and coming back here.
I was wondering how things went. Thanks for sharing "your" 1st meeting with us!!!!
Great job coda2. So glad you went. I thought it might go like you said. I wouldn't worry about the label alcoholic too much at first. You'll figure it out as you keep going. I can say based on your posts that you think a lot like I do in terms of the clubs, relationships, sex, etcetera...that can be labeled sheer codependency, but often it seems to be just another symptom of what I now realize as the all encompassing disease of alcoholism. I went through years of binge drinking, clubbing, and finally a really messed up relationship with another alcoholic. It only got super out of control in the last year or so. It may be that you were smart enough to catch this before it got to the point that it did with some of the rest of us. Again, just my opinion though. Take it for whatever it's worth. Congrats!
__________________
Keep coming back. It works if you work it. So work it. You're worth it!
Great job going to your first meeting. I remember feeling a huge weight off my back after my first. On my third meeting, I was already looking forward to going instead of being anxious about it. I hope you keep going as much as possible!
__________________
Scientists announced that they have located the gene for alcoholism. Scientists say they found it at a party, talking way too loudly.
Thanks great!!! I just knew that you would be welcomed with open arms.
My first meeting was a slight blur to me, but I remember being made so welcome. It's been like that ever since. I now genuinely look forward to my meetings and catching up with some really good people and true friends.
Don't worry about the word alcoholic. Just keep going to meetings and everything will slot into place for you.
I'm glad that you've got a copy of Big Book. It really helped me to understand a lot about my disease. There is a lot of terrific literature available and it is all worth reading.
Please keep posting and letting us know how things are going for you, won't you?
Take care,
Carol
__________________
Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind. ~Dr. Seuss
When they offered me the white chip I hesitated and honestly told them I was still struggling with identifying myself as a binge drinker instead of an alcoholic.
5 Types of Alcoholics
The study describes five subtypes of alcoholics.
The young adult subtype accounts for about 32% of U.S. alcoholics. They're young adults who rarely seek help for alcohol dependence. About 24 years old, they became alcoholics by age 20, on average. They drink less frequently than other alcoholics, but they tend to binge drink when they drink. This is the largest subtype.
