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What makes an alcoholic ?
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At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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That's a problematic amount to drink, but sounds like more of a habit than addiction. The long term health impact of the amount you are drinking are bleak. Just cut out weekday drinking and you'll be fine. |
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"Can you stop?
Without complaint?
The total units per week is probably on the side of, have a word mate, but ya know, British, it's kinda our thing."
There's no one to tell me to stop, I rarely get d*unk - its more social drinking than drinking to get plastered etc.
Its more of a habit, but if you were to say you can't go for a pint tomorrow it would be on my mind more than id like.
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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I always thought an alcoholic was someone who relied on alcohol to function- and couldn’t just stop drinking without being very ill.
Five pints a day is too much - but you probably know that or you wouldn’t want a conversation about it.
Try cutting down, and well done for asking for advice x |
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Why does it matter what makes an alcoholic? The word is just a label.
The question is whether you're drinking is having an impact on your life, your health - and whether you cannot control your drinking.
If receiving that label would help you take action on your drinking, then yes, very many professionals would say you are probably an alcoholic.
However, if you are looking for reassurance that you are *not* an alcoholic so that you can keep drinking at this level, that in itself probably tells you what you need to hear.
Maybe try drinking alternate days. That would massively decrease your units, save money and be good for your health. And if you find that you can't do that, I think you know the answer to your question.
Massive respect for starting this thread.  |
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By *ohn KanakaMan
over a year ago
Not all that North of North London |
"You might count as a functioning alcoholic."
I'd say that.
It's certainly on a par with the volumes I drank at my worst and I accept that i was a functioning alcoholic.
It took me a long while to realise that you didn't need to be drinking covertly to be an alcoholic
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"Can you stop?
Without complaint?
The total units per week is probably on the side of, have a word mate, but ya know, British, it's kinda our thing.
There's no one to tell me to stop, I rarely get d*unk - its more social drinking than drinking to get plastered etc.
Its more of a habit, but if you were to say you can't go for a pint tomorrow it would be on my mind more than id like.
"
Like smoking its a 2 part issue - part habit which you admit you feel you have and part physical dependancy
I would ask my gp to refer me to a counsellor who specialises in drug and alcohol addiction - the great thing is you’re asking yourself the question and not making up the justification for it - you’re obviously not a hopeless alcoholic. A counsellor may help identify why you drink in the first place? Reach out to a professional and get their help & advice. I truly hope you take some of the great advice on this thread and credit to you for asking the question. |
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The replies have literally given me a lump in the throat. Ive also had two pms with advice.
Ive mates drinking far more than me but the ability to not drive past the local without popping in is worrying me.
Its not the end of the world with the things currently in the news. But its something that some advice on is a big help. The scary thing is I didn't think 5 pints was alot for daily intake  |
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By *gent CoulsonMan
over a year ago
Secret hideaway in the pennines |
When you wake up in the morning and need a drink to face the day, then you go to the pub at lunch time for a couple, then make the excuse to go to let the traffic die down before you drive home.
When you get home, you pour yourself a drink while you decide what you are going to have for dinner, before you know it's 1am and you have finished a bottle of brandy,
Repeat the following day |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Well, take it from someone who slipped on the slope and had to take stock, it might be that time.
Actual hard-core alcoholics, that require three doubles in the morning to function is one thing, those sleep walking into it through boredom and habit is another.
So it's easy to convince yourself, I'm not that, so I'm good, right?
Except you kind of know it isn't great. Make your choices, you already know its less than ideal. |
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"There's no one to tell me to stop, I rarely get d*unk - its more social drinking than drinking to get plastered etc."
Just an fyi, but it is worth bearing in mind that not getting d*unk is no indicator of problem-free drinking.
Some people never get d*unk because their tolerance is so high precisely because they drink far too much. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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5 pints a day is very very easy.
Used to do that no problems, especially as I'd have my mid week beer to keep me fresh for the morning. Something around 4%, beck's etc.
When you rank beers into mid week and weekend, that's another sign lol. |
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"The replies have literally given me a lump in the throat. Ive also had two pms with advice.
Ive mates drinking far more than me but the ability to not drive past the local without popping in is worrying me.
Its not the end of the world with the things currently in the news. But its something that some advice on is a big help. The scary thing is I didn't think 5 pints was alot for daily intake "
If you're driving past your local and stopping....
I and others trust you're leaving the cat there and not driving home |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Hello
I think if I drink 5 a day everyday my organs including the brain would dry to a size of a black olive …
You have different types of alcoholic
The poor and the rich ^^ ( joking )
Psychological - can coop or enjoy
Social - can’t meet or go out
Body - shacke , can’t sleep , can’t work or drive .
If u not an alcoholic u r at list a drinkalotholic .
But same amount . Daily . Routine ?
Makes it look like something has to be there or computer say no
Either habit, like been said previously ,or body or brain addiction
.
I used to party drink a lot . Then just stopped cause couldn’t be bothered anymore …
Bored of it …
Try cut down , have a brake . Then see how your body reacts and your mind ….
Try occupy the habit with video games and baking cakes , learn new recipies . Cook .
If u struggle talk , find friends , find support , find therapy if u find u may need recover of something
There’s plenty help out there
Never close up n never be shy x x.
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"At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
"
By posting this.
You know deep down the answer |
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I work in a pub and have a lot of regulars who come in daily and drink around that or even more pints daily….I think they’re similar to yourself OP, it’s like a habit and also their social life, otherwise they’d be at home perhaps alone.
I agree with a few of the above replies…if you do still go to the pub after work could you once in a while drink non alcoholic or soft drinks and see if you still get the social aspect and see how you get on with no alcohol if you are concerned?
Good luck and well done for bringing this up |
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"5 pints a day is very very easy.
Used to do that no problems, especially as I'd have my mid week beer to keep me fresh for the morning. Something around 4%, beck's etc.
When you rank beers into mid week and weekend, that's another sign lol."
Thats just it, 5 pints is an average and it goes down with no problems. Which is fine to a point, but when I go to bed thinking right tomorrow I'll give it a rest, but then slip in for just a quick one and then it starts again....
Maybe with the pms and reading the very decent replies tomorrow will be different |
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"5 pints a day is very very easy."
It's also - depending on the strength of the drink - consuming the recommended WEEKLY number of units in one DAY.
So, in a week, the OP may be drinking 5-7 times the recommended limit. Every single week. The health impact of that is enormous.
Time to take action, OP. it doesn't need to be scary, but better now than once the problem's got worse.
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/alcohol-advice/the-risks-of-drinking-too-much/ |
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"There's no one to tell me to stop, I rarely get d*unk - its more social drinking than drinking to get plastered etc.
Just an fyi, but it is worth bearing in mind that not getting d*unk is no indicator of problem-free drinking.
Some people never get d*unk because their tolerance is so high precisely because they drink far too much. "
This! My ex was rarely d*unk but was an alcoholic to the point he developed alcoholic epilepsy! Sadly the drink did kill him in the end indirectly x |
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"At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
"
I can relate to this. I like a drink on a weekend and look forward to. I have 4-5 bottles of medium strength beer on a Fri, Sat and Sun evening. Mon-Thurs sober (unless something work related or a random date etc… comes up).
I spoke to a friend of mine who goes to AA and makes no secret of it and he said:
If and when you truly want to stop and find you can’t (no matter how hard your try), you’re probably an alcoholic.
Try it. Try and stop for a week or two, a month. Try it more than once. If you find you can’t (when you truly want to) then you may need to seek help. But only you can diagnose yourself here I believe.
That you’re talking about it suggests that something doesn’t feel right to you (or perhaps those around you who love you).
At the very least it does sound like a lot of units a week and can’t be good for your long-term help.
Good luck! |
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"The replies have literally given me a lump in the throat. Ive also had two pms with advice.
Ive mates drinking far more than me but the ability to not drive past the local without popping in is worrying me.
Its not the end of the world with the things currently in the news. But its something that some advice on is a big help. The scary thing is I didn't think 5 pints was alot for daily intake "
For reference 21 inits is recommended weekly intake for a bloke - less preferably and 5 pints of shite lager 3.5% will equal 2 units or thereabouts so 5 pints is 10 units so in 2 days you’ve hit the weekly total
I used to do rock n roll drinking but now its a couple of bottles wine over the weekend
If you knock iff the school night drinking or even hit 0% lager Warsteiner is excellent not that crappy watery taste there are others too
But still read all the posts and pick out the advice you think works for you - it’s your issue to overcome but there’s lots of help available if you want it. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"5 pints a day is very very easy.
Used to do that no problems, especially as I'd have my mid week beer to keep me fresh for the morning. Something around 4%, beck's etc.
When you rank beers into mid week and weekend, that's another sign lol.
Thats just it, 5 pints is an average and it goes down with no problems. Which is fine to a point, but when I go to bed thinking right tomorrow I'll give it a rest, but then slip in for just a quick one and then it starts again....
Maybe with the pms and reading the very decent replies tomorrow will be different "
You are bored of it …. U can’t be bothered any more …
Don’t think “ I have to stop this , I can’t go to pub “
As more u say “no “as more u want to go
Cause being naughty is fun .
Just remember “ fuck it , can’t be bothered with this shit “
Cause as far as I see is what u saying .
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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I don't think you sound like an alcoholic, but probably for your long term health it could be good to cut down. Also save a few quid ! I think with the decline of pub culture a lot of people don't realise that 5 pints a day is not that much for many people, quite high but by no means alcoholic levels. |
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"At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
I can relate to this. I like a drink on a weekend and look forward to. I have 4-5 bottles of medium strength beer on a Fri, Sat and Sun evening. Mon-Thurs sober (unless something work related or a random date etc… comes up).
I spoke to a friend of mine who goes to AA and makes no secret of it and he said:
If and when you truly want to stop and find you can’t (no matter how hard your try), you’re probably an alcoholic.
Try it. Try and stop for a week or two, a month. Try it more than once. If you find you can’t (when you truly want to) then you may need to seek help. But only you can diagnose yourself here I believe.
That you’re talking about it suggests that something doesn’t feel right to you (or perhaps those around you who love you).
At the very least it does sound like a lot of units a week and can’t be good for your long-term help.
Good luck!"
Your friend is exactly how it feels, it doesn't feel wrong or too much intake until someone suggests you have a break, and the break seems like its going to be a problem.
Every reply to this thread is exactly what I wanted and needed to hear.
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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I’d say you’re an habitual drinker which is also how I describe myself.
The suppressive effect alcohol has on my serotonin levels has been quite damaging to my mental health recently and for that reason I’ve cut right down. I went out with my mates at the weekend for a few. No massive hangover just really low for a few days after. |
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"I work in a pub and have a lot of regulars who come in daily and drink around that or even more pints daily….I think they’re similar to yourself OP, it’s like a habit and also their social life, otherwise they’d be at home perhaps alone.
I agree with a few of the above replies…if you do still go to the pub after work could you once in a while drink non alcoholic or soft drinks and see if you still get the social aspect and see how you get on with no alcohol if you are concerned?
Good luck and well done for bringing this up "
This is sensible advice I agree |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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If you need a weird motivation, stick what you'd spend in the pub or whatever aside, get two weeks deep and laugh at what you've saved.
Then buy something useful, like a vintage footy shirt, a new console or some ridiculous over the top cheeses or whatever, to make into cheese on toast, because you're a tit.
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Can you stop?
Without complaint?
The total units per week is probably on the side of, have a word mate, but ya know, British, it's kinda our thing.
There's no one to tell me to stop, I rarely get d*unk - its more social drinking than drinking to get plastered etc.
Its more of a habit, but if you were to say you can't go for a pint tomorrow it would be on my mind more than id like.
"
Find something else to do as a replacement, |
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"For reference 21 inits is recommended weekly intake for a bloke - less preferably and 5 pints of shite lager 3.5% will equal 2 units or thereabouts so 5 pints is 10 units so in 2 days you’ve hit the weekly total"
I think it's nearer 14 units a week. |
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Tomorrow I wont be popping in for a quick pint, as I've just said in a pm.
The thread was to answer a few questions deep down I knew the answer to.
The response to my OP has been awesome and goes to show what a decent supportive community this is.
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I’d say you are a certainly alcohol dependent rather than a full blown alcoholic, but I’m no expert and the definitions are blurred.
Point is by starting this thread you know in your head it’s too much too frequently. Like others have said, maybe see if you can only do weekends / drink every 3 days.
One blessing is there are some great zero alcohol beers on the market now!
Maybe join a gym and have ‘gym nights’ to keep you busy / motivated?
Good luck |
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"You're a bloody inspiration, OP.
Nice one."
I wouldn't go that far, ive still got to drive past the pub and get home tomorrow.
The inspiration is every person that's replied to this and those that have pm'd me - awesome people. All of you.
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"For reference 21 inits is recommended weekly intake for a bloke - less preferably and 5 pints of shite lager 3.5% will equal 2 units or thereabouts so 5 pints is 10 units so in 2 days you’ve hit the weekly total
I think it's nearer 14 units a week."
It was reduced to 14 units a week for men a few years ago |
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I've had a few friends have drink and drug problems who are now totally sober. They're all on 0% beers. We had a BBQ in the summer and they were all swapping favourite brands and putting all the bottles and cans out like it had been a wild party but them all being 0% beers was a bizarre experience. They've all done so well and I'm very proud. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Hmm, reading that I would say you are dependent on it. It's good you recognise the fact and it's great to hear the thought of alcohol doesn't consume you.
I've had a quick read and seen some good advice above ^ but definitely try to make some small changes... it might not completely engross you but it's not a healthy path to be on.
My brother is the same as you and I worry about him so much. My mum was an alcoholic and it killed her last year. I worry he will end up just like her. |
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"Hmm, reading that I would say you are dependent on it. It's good you recognise the fact and it's great to hear the thought of alcohol doesn't consume you.
I've had a quick read and seen some good advice above ^ but definitely try to make some small changes... it might not completely engross you but it's not a healthy path to be on.
My brother is the same as you and I worry about him so much. My mum was an alcoholic and it killed her last year. I worry he will end up just like her. "
I hope your brother senses the problems like I have - niggling alarm bells ive tried to ignore.
I really am going to avoid the pub tomorrow. Im chuffed already with fact the decision has been made.
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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OP you are drinking in one day, what you should be drinking in 1 week!
The label alcoholic vs social drinker is not so important. Alcohol affect all your internal organs. Talking about been able to function does not mean it is not having a detrimental effect on your liver, blood pressure, stomach, heart and other organs, increase risk of all type of cancers! The list is endless. My advice will be to see your GP and check how things are before it is too late. I agree this is not a nice reading but it is your choice!
Good luck |
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my dad was an alcoholic and it caught up with him in his mid 60s... he never admitted to being one. so I applaud you for having the thought to ask for advice on it. Maybe see a professional too for extra reassurance.
Hope it doesn't become a bigger problem and you can nip it in the bud so to speak |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"Hmm, reading that I would say you are dependent on it. It's good you recognise the fact and it's great to hear the thought of alcohol doesn't consume you.
I've had a quick read and seen some good advice above ^ but definitely try to make some small changes... it might not completely engross you but it's not a healthy path to be on.
My brother is the same as you and I worry about him so much. My mum was an alcoholic and it killed her last year. I worry he will end up just like her. "
Not easy...I hope he manage to brink the right changes into his life. |
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Don't mean to sound patronising, OP, but I think it's good you're questioning this. I don't know you, but if a friend in real life asked me this, I would advise and try to help him cut back as that feels unsustainable to me.
The NHS advice is 14 units a week, which is about 6 pints of lager so you're almost hitting the weekly recommendation every night.
I get how catching up with mates in the pub each night is hard to give up, but maybe alternate a beer with a softie or have a night on/night off and you've halved the weekly drinking straight away...? Good luck! |
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By *lynJMan
over a year ago
Morden |
"You're a bloody inspiration, OP.
Nice one.
I wouldn't go that far, ive still got to drive past the pub and get home tomorrow.
The inspiration is every person that's replied to this and those that have pm'd me - awesome people. All of you.
"
Can you change your route to avoid driving past the pub? |
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By *lynJMan
over a year ago
Morden |
"I drink every night before bed at least 4 vodkas
Not good but can't sleep if I don't drink"
The alcohol actually disturbs your sleep rather than helping you to sleep. It might help you get off, but will disturb it in the middle of the night. |
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Alcoholic is a term that alcohol anonymous use.
It's called alcohol dependency.
Be it you have to a drink every friday night or every night or in the morning after etc.
If you have a routine be one night a week or every night then you are alcohol dependant.
If you can go without drink for months without thinking about it then your not.
Tip go and seek help and talk to a drug and alcohol counsellor. |
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"At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
"
Op I think you already know the answer to your question as your questioning your alcohol in-take. Alcoholics come in all shapes and sizes not just the type you've mentioned that drink shorts all day or hide it. Denial has a lot to answer to!! |
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"I drink every night before bed at least 4 vodkas
Not good but can't sleep if I don't drink
The alcohol actually disturbs your sleep rather than helping you to sleep. It might help you get off, but will disturb it in the middle of the night."
This ^ |
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Someone once said to me, If alcohol is costing you more than money, then perhaps you have a problem...
Try just having 2 pints and stop, see how you feel..
Lots of alcohol free beer etc on the market, or is it the effect you crave?
Only you can decide if you have a problem, then the problem doesn't have to be a problem, lots of help and support available..
All the best to you. |
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By *os19Man
over a year ago
Edmonton |
"At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
"
. As someone who hardly ever drinks it sounds like you have perhaps developed a addiction.The reason I say that is I am someone who is always on my Ladbrokes online account doing a bet whether it’s football , horses , darts , snooker , tennis every day I have a bet |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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I’ve never been a big drinker myself however I’m a carer for an alcoholic. I have to watch him start drinking roughly 11.30am until around 11pm.
For him it’s pure alcohol dependence, if he doesn’t drink he shakes and gets aggressive, when he’s d*unk he’s falling over and getting abusive.
I did a drugs and alcohol therapist course a couple of years back and was told that an addict is somebody who needs on a day to day basis in order to function properly, I also learned that next to class A drugs alcohol is one of the harder “legal drugs” to try and kick the habit of |
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By *nlyfun3Woman
over a year ago
NEAR Berkhamsted,Herts |
Ok this is something I do as part of my job, recommended units per week for men and women is 14 units a week. A unit is a half pints of 3% beer. Small glass of wine . A shot of spirit.
With that in mind each 1 of your pints is about 2.5 units. Times that by 5 is 12.5 units a day. That's nearly puts you at 7 x over the weekly recommended amount.
Now as far as dependency there are 2 types.
Mental dependency. Where you cannot do without it due to habit, security, Confidence, social pressures and stresses
Physical dependency. When if you do not have alcohol, your body releases toxins that effect your whole body but especially your brain, which can lead to fits, then possible death
If you have concerns, you are half way to admitting you have a dependency, which you need accept before you can tackle it. There is help out there if you want it. But it is a social legal drug. Its not easy.
It effects practically every organ in your body. It effects relationships and work.
Everyone one is susceptible.
Happy to dm if you like. |
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If you've got alcobol fully integrated into your daily lice, with the level of intake in excess of a volume known to damage health, it shouts yhat its a problem.
We should be able to consume what we like, with sovereignty over our own body. But I'd love people to be better supported and educated, so that life and health are not cut shorr. You don't need a label, unless it motivates your care |
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"The replies have literally given me a lump in the throat. Ive also had two pms with advice.
Ive mates drinking far more than me but the ability to not drive past the local without popping in is worrying me.
Its not the end of the world with the things currently in the news. But its something that some advice on is a big help. The scary thing is I didn't think 5 pints was alot for daily intake "
Just don't let drinking be the end of your world. |
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"5 pints a day is very very easy.
It's also - depending on the strength of the drink - consuming the recommended WEEKLY number of units in one DAY.
So, in a week, the OP may be drinking 5-7 times the recommended limit. Every single week. The health impact of that is enormous.
Time to take action, OP. it doesn't need to be scary, but better now than once the problem's got worse.
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/alcohol-advice/the-risks-of-drinking-too-much/"
This exactly.i speak to patients daily that drink to excess and it causes ALOT of damage!
If you drink daily, then the amount doesn’t matter.be definition you are wht we’d call a functioning alcoholic.
If you speak to your GP they with order some blood tests,including LFT which looks at your liver and can indicate any damage done by drinking…5 pints may seen a small amount but that’s 10units nearly (depending on what you drink)
Happy to give some advice in the group but you need to do this with your Dr backing you, or it can make matters worse.have you been doing this daily drinking for while?
Good luck with this OP!
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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The technical definition of an alcoholic is someone that cannot go through their day without a drink. It is a common misconception that someone has to be d*unk all the time to be an alcoholic. What I will say is if you think you developed a problematic drinking pattern then maybe contact your gp whom will be able to point you in the right direction to get some support and information. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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I can't really add anything more than some of the excellent advice already given other than the fact that you OP are aware of this situation is the main thing.
My own experience comes mainly from working in the music industry basically all my adult life. Having been a touring musician and what we term a 'roadie' I was immersed in a world where alcohol was available 24/7. Therefore I have sadly seen many people fall by the wayside because of it. I've always liked a drink myself and it was upon a close friend I had worked with for many years disclosing he had a problem. Basically the problem with defining an 'alcoholic' is we're all individuals. Someone can have one sip and that's it they become (over time of course) hopelessly addicted. Others are simply heavy drinkers. But they're not addicts. Yes they can still face health issues for a basically unhealthy lifestyle that entails so may suffer that way. But they're not dependent on it. So its something only you and your doctor etc... can dig deep into to sort out.
But the answer to your question is "When it becomes the NUMBER ONE priority over all other considerations."
One question I will ask that is the type of drilling down you will under go is "Did you need a drink to pluck up the courage to write your post?"
Another one would be given that we're on Fab say just for instance that #1 profile on your Hotlist suddenly messages you and you get chatting and she maybe suggests you meet for a social or something. Naturally you're keen to impress and all that, so there's a bit of pressure on. Do you need a drink to go and meet her? Or would you make sure you met at the pub rather than say a cafe where only non-alcoholic beverages are available.
And you can answer those question to yourself honestly. Does not matter what you type or don't type here. The answer is yours alone.
I have three 'cautionary tales' for either the OP to use as he will, or anyone else reading this wondering if they too have a problem...
The first one was another roadie mate and he landed a tour working for Eric Clapton. Being a fan and it paying well he eagerly accepted the job. However, he had to sign a contract saying that, due to Eric famously being a recovering alcoholic, he would not give Eric any drink. Nor give him any cash no matter how small an amount. And lastly he not only had to not drink in front of Eric nor must he touch a drop, even in private, for the entire tour. Even the smell of alcohol on another's breath can tip a vulnerable recoveree. Now my mate liked a drink. Like you OP he liked a few every day. And the thought of doing a 28 day tour sober terrified him. He broke out in a sweat and had a panic attack. He realised in that moment he too needed people not to drink round him etc... he sought help and did the tour and all was good. But he was diagnosed an alcoholic and he had NO idea he was one. Or so he has always said.
The other is a bassist in pretty well known band that I shan't name here. Other than to say long before they got together I just happened in my teens to be friends with this bassist's wife. So I got a lot of work being their roadie through this connection. And this bassist fell into what is full blown alcohilsm. He, despite being very comfortable financially, simply drank it all. And he was eventually stealing support band's gear and the merch money would go missing to fuel his drinking. Yet he was seldom "d*unk" and we had no idea at first. Sure he had a drink but we all did. Cut a long story short he was eventually decimated by alcohol. He missed his own mum's funeral cos his flight was slightly delayed so he went to the airport bar and made it no further. And many other incidents like that. In the end after his umpteenth stay in rehab my friend had to tell them she was running out of money and maybe could not afford his treatment anymore as she had bills and a mortgage to pay. The top doc at rehab simply told her to get out of her marriage. He said I have tried my best but your husband simply for his own reasons does not want to give up. So we cannot help him. But we can help you by advising you to cut off ALL contact with him as he will simply bleed you dry forever. And we had to do that. Myself included. He was my friend. But I'd lent him money (not a lot) that of course I never saw. And although it is the most chilling experience I've ever had from a Doctor's advice, it was sadly correct. The drink took him way too soon sadly.
But I just want to add a quick third. So as not to finish on a note of total despair. We now have a younger generation of bands and roadies all learning the ropes and paving the future. But in the main they don't seem to use drink as a crutch to fill that void as much. The main issue with being out on tour is that huge swathes of time are boring. You have these intense bursts of adrenalin fuelled excitement followed by... well... nothing. And the main thing seems to be the new 'addiction' to social media. These youngsters are glued to their screens so have no need to prop up the hotel bar or whatever. Or not as much. So for the OP I can only echo that to fill the void left by drink find something to replace it. Rocker Alice Cooper famously gave up drink and became a golfer and still to this day regularly beats pros in competitions despite being in his 70's. He would not have made it otherwise. But a hobby or pastime or sport. Anything.
I hope that might help you OP and also hope you get the help you need for you to sort it.
All the best! |
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Speaking as someone who has never tasted alcohol at any stage in my life I can't give you any advice in regard to your intake.
However, you made a half hearted attempt to justify it by saying it was mostly social drinking but that was after saying in your op that you had a couple in the pub and then a couple at home so 50% of your intake is not social.
Ask yourself then what the draw of going into the pub every evening really is?
Are you going in to be social and catch up with mates or are you going in for the couple of pints?
If it's the former do you feel under pressure to drink pints when being social or could you easily have a soft drink without any judgement from your mates.
If it's the latter, do you feel under pressure to be social every evening or if you were to drive on passed the pub without going in would you then have 4 cans while waiting on dinner?
There might be a subtle difference but your motivation is important to understand.
What exactly are you missing out on by not going into the pub? The pints or the craic? |
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Admitting to yourself that there is a problem is the first step, and like most drugs you need to want to do something about it or it won't work.
I would say that you need to admit to yourself that you have a problem and get some help from a professional buddy. Speak to your GP and get the help to save your life.
Good luck and please seek help with this |
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I never did the morning drink was functioning always drank after work daily, said won’t drink day after but couldn’t realisation set in slowly got worse and now grateful nearly 10 years sober.
Life better definitely and don’t wish it back in my life  |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Incase anyone else had a disconnect like me
5 pints is 2.5L
2.5l of beers a day.
It’s a lot buddy. And I don’t think you’d be on here asking if you didn’t already know
Even just cutting out 1-2 days a week, or 1-2 pints a day, is a huge improvement
Could you maybe get alcohol free beer and alternate? One alcohol, one alcohol free
From someone that’s struggled with addiction, don’t let this get away from you. People think addiction is loud. It’s mostly now. It’s a quite fade you don’t see coming |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Habits are hard to break, maybe a lifestyle change, l moved to a lovely place miles from a pub and have to pay £50 in taxis if l want a nite out, soon stopped the daily drinking, drinking on your own at home no good unless it's to quench a thirst after a hard day or hot work ,good luck bud ! |
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From my experience of an 'alcoholic' family member, I'd say you are consuming far too much alcohol. 5 pints x 2 units x 7 days = 70 units. The MAXIMUM recommended is weekly intake is 14 units. The good thing is, you have identified it as a potential problem. Please get professional advice and follow recommendations. Alcohol is a wrecker of health, wellbeing and entire families. |
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Again waking and reading the posts of help and support is unbelievable.
Filling the time should be ok, ive plenty to occupy me.
I think I've alway just seen it as a reward for a good day's work, just one of lifes little pleasures.
The amount I am/was having i thought was normal, its very clear thats its not and it honestly has given me a wake up call to get on top of it.
Today will be a consurted effort of give the pub a miss entirely. There's no peer pressure to have a pint over a soft drink, I just think I need to take myself out of that environment for at least a few days a week.
The time some have you have spent replying is much appreciated. And to the lads and ladies that have messaged privately with support, links and advice it truly is amazing.
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
"
When you put baileys on your morning cornflakes and Irish up your morning coffee I would say that’s a start. |
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"Can you stop?
Without complaint?
The total units per week is probably on the side of, have a word mate, but ya know, British, it's kinda our thing.
There's no one to tell me to stop, I rarely get d*unk - its more social drinking than drinking to get plastered etc.
Its more of a habit, but if you were to say you can't go for a pint tomorrow it would be on my mind more than id like.
"
Challenge yourself... Go dry for a month... Put the money you save in a charity pot or something. If you drink to be social... Drink softies for a month or tea or coffee. You'll know the size of your problem if you can or can't do it. |
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You could even halve your consumption just going out on alternate days. You might enjoy the time you do go out even more. I would cut the cans out though. I never drink at home (unless having a party) and only drink in pubs now. I probably only drink a couple of times a month at the most now.
In my late teens and early twenties I was outside the pub waiting for them to open, almost every evening.
Cut right back and see how you feel. Pubs don't just serve beer either! |
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You’re probably spending £70 a week on booze if you’re doing it every day.
That’s £280 a month - why not do a month no booze then book a city break with the money you’ve saved as a nice reward? Or buy a new winter coat etc. |
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"At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
"
I also worry that my alcohol consumption is excessive mate. I'm not going to divulge how much I drink, because quantity is irrelevant I feel. What's true though is this - if you're worried AT ALL about it - it's a problem. Because... well, quite simply because you're worrying! That's your consciounce talking to you. Don't ignore it bud  |
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"At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
I also worry that my alcohol consumption is excessive mate. I'm not going to divulge how much I drink, because quantity is irrelevant I feel. What's true though is this - if you're worried AT ALL about it - it's a problem. Because... well, quite simply because you're worrying! That's your consciounce talking to you. Don't ignore it bud "
Today will be the first time I'm not visiting the pub for months on a weekday 
Im actually looking forward to doing more constructive things around the house for a change. |
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By *ohn KanakaMan
over a year ago
Not all that North of North London |
"At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
I also worry that my alcohol consumption is excessive mate. I'm not going to divulge how much I drink, because quantity is irrelevant I feel. What's true though is this - if you're worried AT ALL about it - it's a problem. Because... well, quite simply because you're worrying! That's your consciounce talking to you. Don't ignore it bud
Today will be the first time I'm not visiting the pub for months on a weekday
Im actually looking forward to doing more constructive things around the house for a change. "
When I quit drinking, I suddenly found i had a lot of free time, days of it.
You need to be prepared for that, because it's easy to get bored and just head to the pub out of habit |
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"At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
"
Alcohol dependant. My mum is the same. Which is why I’m virtually teetotal nowadays. |
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"At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
Alcohol dependant. My mum is the same. Which is why I’m virtually teetotal nowadays. "
Do they not say it can be inherited |
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"Can you stop?
Without complaint?
The total units per week is probably on the side of, have a word mate, but ya know, British, it's kinda our thing.
There's no one to tell me to stop, I rarely get d*unk - its more social drinking than drinking to get plastered etc.
Its more of a habit, but if you were to say you can't go for a pint tomorrow it would be on my mind more than id like.
"
So have one pint, and 4 lemonades. Your'e still socialising. |
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Just try dropping a pint for one week,the following two and so on until you then just do a few nights a week.
Maybe get to the point of not needing weekly drink.
However another hobby may help.
Join a gym and start.
Health implications aside financially you are going to be saving probably £500 a month! |
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As an ex pub landlord, i’d say its a habit at the moment, but it can easily become a dependance.
Ive seen some awesome people get snuck up on and it takes hold.
As it depresses you, the thought of not drinking.. you are on the tipping point of the slippery slope.
Its great you questioned it and asked for opinions on here.
try cutting down, bin off the tinnies with dinner… see if you get an reaction or yearn for the tinnies.. if you do, body’s coming dependant..
Make the changes now dude, before it really kicks in.. i hated watching good people go down that route..
Best of luck
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By *izzy.Woman
over a year ago
Stoke area |
"At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
I also worry that my alcohol consumption is excessive mate. I'm not going to divulge how much I drink, because quantity is irrelevant I feel. What's true though is this - if you're worried AT ALL about it - it's a problem. Because... well, quite simply because you're worrying! That's your consciounce talking to you. Don't ignore it bud
Today will be the first time I'm not visiting the pub for months on a weekday
Im actually looking forward to doing more constructive things around the house for a change. "
So pleased to see you have had loads of helpful advise and support. Please report back and let us know how you are getting on. Avoiding the pub entirely seems a really good move. Plan things you want to do instead and stick the money you would have spent into a jar. Watch it build up and plan your reward.
Today is literally a new start, for a healthier and happier you. |
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Well reporting in, I did pop unto the pub, and had a . Told my friends im cutting down drastically, and just popped in to say hi.
Currently home and cooking a decent curry for later.
I'll prob have a couple with dinner.
I would love to be able to say ive not bought a beer in the pub for a week. I dont want to not see my friends but am determined not to buy a pint so soft drinks in the pub for a while. So far so good |
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"Well reporting in, I did pop unto the pub, and had a . Told my friends im cutting down drastically, and just popped in to say hi.
Currently home and cooking a decent curry for later.
I'll prob have a couple with dinner.
I would love to be able to say ive not bought a beer in the pub for a week. I dont want to not see my friends but am determined not to buy a pint so soft drinks in the pub for a while. So far so good "
Had a soft drink beginning with C and four letters long. It got filtered out |
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"Well reporting in, I did pop unto the pub, and had a . Told my friends im cutting down drastically, and just popped in to say hi.
Currently home and cooking a decent curry for later.
I'll prob have a couple with dinner.
I would love to be able to say ive not bought a beer in the pub for a week. I dont want to not see my friends but am determined not to buy a pint so soft drinks in the pub for a while. So far so good "
Nice one!
It's not a case of changing your life over night. Small changes here and there really do add up! (Jeez, that sounds patronising af, but it's true.)
Just mathematically, think of how much you were drinking before - cutting out one or two here and there and you'll soon be drinking half as much.
I hope you're pleased with yourself. And great idea to tell your friends. |
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"At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
"
It's quite the norm to have a few pints after work |
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By *iger4uWoman
over a year ago
In my happy place |
"Can you stop?
Without complaint?
The total units per week is probably on the side of, have a word mate, but ya know, British, it's kinda our thing.
There's no one to tell me to stop, I rarely get d*unk - its more social drinking than drinking to get plastered etc.
Its more of a habit, but if you were to say you can't go for a pint tomorrow it would be on my mind more than id like.
"
So yes you are alcohol dependent. |
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By *iger4uWoman
over a year ago
In my happy place |
"At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
It's quite the norm to have a few pints after work"
Its a choice, then a habit. |
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"Well reporting in, I did pop unto the pub, and had a . Told my friends im cutting down drastically, and just popped in to say hi.
Currently home and cooking a decent curry for later.
I'll prob have a couple with dinner.
I would love to be able to say ive not bought a beer in the pub for a week. I dont want to not see my friends but am determined not to buy a pint so soft drinks in the pub for a while. So far so good
Had a soft drink beginning with C and four letters long. It got filtered out "
Well done for telling your friends, that can sometimes be daunting putting yourself out there but I hope they are supportive of you! You’ve got this OP! It defo helps to have a good support system round you….I went non alcoholic for a few months and my colleagues on nights out would make sure all my drinks were soft ones and if they were doing shots they’d get me a pineapple juice shot so id still feel included  |
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"
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it.
OP... I think that you've answered your own question. "
Yep he has. We had alcoholics come to my school and give a talk on it. They defined an alcoholic as someone who has a drink regularly and will not miss it for anything even if it's only once a week. A dependency is a dependency. |
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By *ak4uMan
over a year ago
chelmsford |
"The replies have literally given me a lump in the throat. Ive also had two pms with advice.
Ive mates drinking far more than me but the ability to not drive past the local without popping in is worrying me.
Its not the end of the world with the things currently in the news. Bute its something that some advice on is a big help. The scary thing is I didn't think 5 pints was alot for daily intake "
From a health point of view the NHS advise not to exceed 14 units of alcohol et week. You are drinking 10 units per day…… |
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I have spoken privately with OP about my own experience the pro's and cons and health and lifestyle links! I am not preaching in any way but I know what I'm talking about after drinking over a bottle of vodka a day for more than 10 years,I was working and functional the whole time until I turned green one day and went to hospital where they kept me for 3 months!!
I got told on 3 occasions that the didn't think I would see the following day !!!! 100% true!!! |
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By *lynJMan
over a year ago
Morden |
"I have spoken privately with OP about my own experience the pro's and cons and health and lifestyle links! I am not preaching in any way but I know what I'm talking about after drinking over a bottle of vodka a day for more than 10 years,I was working and functional the whole time until I turned green one day and went to hospital where they kept me for 3 months!!
I got told on 3 occasions that the didn't think I would see the following day !!!! 100% true!!! "
I've got the view from another side; my partner died in May from multiple organ failure caused by "Decompensated alcoholic liver disease". Basically the liver shut down followed by the kidneys and everything else.
She was 60 years old.
She was taken into hospital by ambulance late in the evening after fainting and didn't see the next night.
Her poison of choice was Pimms and was getting through about a 70cl bottle a day. She tried stopping for a couple of days once (basically cold turkey) but ended up in hospital after a seizure at home. She had 2 more seizures in hospital that day.
No words from family could persuade her to stop - or even cut down for any length of time.
 |
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"I have spoken privately with OP about my own experience the pro's and cons and health and lifestyle links! I am not preaching in any way but I know what I'm talking about after drinking over a bottle of vodka a day for more than 10 years,I was working and functional the whole time until I turned green one day and went to hospital where they kept me for 3 months!!
I got told on 3 occasions that the didn't think I would see the following day !!!! 100% true!!!
I've got the view from another side; my partner died in May from multiple organ failure caused by "Decompensated alcoholic liver disease". Basically the liver shut down followed by the kidneys and everything else.
She was 60 years old.
She was taken into hospital by ambulance late in the evening after fainting and didn't see the next night.
Her poison of choice was Pimms and was getting through about a 70cl bottle a day. She tried stopping for a couple of days once (basically cold turkey) but ended up in hospital after a seizure at home. She had 2 more seizures in hospital that day.
No words from family could persuade her to stop - or even cut down for any length of time.
"
Very sorry for you man ! If you want to talk you can PM me ! |
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By *lynJMan
over a year ago
Morden |
"I have spoken privately with OP about my own experience the pro's and cons and health and lifestyle links! I am not preaching in any way but I know what I'm talking about after drinking over a bottle of vodka a day for more than 10 years,I was working and functional the whole time until I turned green one day and went to hospital where they kept me for 3 months!!
I got told on 3 occasions that the didn't think I would see the following day !!!! 100% true!!!
I've got the view from another side; my partner died in May from multiple organ failure caused by "Decompensated alcoholic liver disease". Basically the liver shut down followed by the kidneys and everything else.
She was 60 years old.
She was taken into hospital by ambulance late in the evening after fainting and didn't see the next night.
Her poison of choice was Pimms and was getting through about a 70cl bottle a day. She tried stopping for a couple of days once (basically cold turkey) but ended up in hospital after a seizure at home. She had 2 more seizures in hospital that day.
No words from family could persuade her to stop - or even cut down for any length of time.
Very sorry for you man ! If you want to talk you can PM me !"
Thanks. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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My grandad became an alcoholic and died before my parents got married, he never gave my mum away or lived to see retirement.
That's not a judgement as I went the same way as you did, I was working away, there was nothing else to do except sit in my room on my own... my friends saw me putting on weight and called me out on it.
Now I'm the polar opposite and although my profile says I dont drink, I have a drink less than once in a fortnight so the other drinking options didnt really fit my lifestyle.
If you need any help reply here and I'll open my filters so you can send me a pm.
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"It's quite the norm to have a few pints after work"
No, it's not.
A few pints of 4%+ lager every single day?
So, excluding weekends, 6-9 units a day = 30 to 45 units a week. And the recommended limit is 14 units. |
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I still have an iffy relationship with booze, in lockdown I was doing 8 pint cans of Stella a day going on for weeks to deal with things, but that was nothing compares to my older drinking routines of getting out of it and waking up in strange places. I did the meetings and I’m trying to be a lot more in control of it, I don’t drink at home and I try to not go too far when out. For me I drink for my depression and seizures, never been dependent but I drank a lot. I wouldn’t say you’re an alcoholic, but you are sliding that way with 5 beers each night, I used to talk myself that it wasn’t a lot, but it is. If you need someone to talk to about this, my DMs are always open |
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By *rettyflamingoWoman
over a year ago
Where the flamboyance of flamingos live |
My father drank everyday but would of never referred to himself as an alcoholic. He dropped down dead at the age of 70 suddenly and when he had his PM, found he had an enlarged heart, fatty liver and pancreatic cancer! This is one sure way to put anyone off drinking to excess. |
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By *humper.Man
over a year ago
northumberland/scotland |
"Hiding how much u drink
Hiding it from family
Missing work through drink
Every day having to have a drink
I'm now 2 years sober"
Well done man, amazing achievement. ODAAT
I joined AA 8 months ago but I've recently started letting myself have the odd one now and again. so long as it stays that way I'm happy.
If not, back to the programme. |
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"At what point would you say alcohol is a problem?
I enjoy a drink, a daily drink. Ive never had the urge to wake up and crack open a tin. But after work every day I pop in the local for a few pints then probably have a couple of tins while cooking dinner.
Daily intake probably around 5 pints of lager, the thought of not having a drink feels pretty depressing as I look forward to it, but im inwardly worrying if the thought of not having a drink has that effect, am I bordering on the dependency of alcohol ?
I always thought an alcoholic was someone drinking shorts all day long and hiding their drinking habits.
Any advice from those with experience with this please shout up
"
you have to work up to alcoholism and 5 pints a day everyday is getting there, going to the pub everyday is the problem try and miss out on a couple of days and don't have the tins when you're cooking try small things first and hopefully it won't feel like you're giving it up.. |
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Can become complex. But your would would be put as a problem drinker. You are drinking to much and stopping straight way could lead to binge drinking. Maybe first week one less in the pub and one less while making tea and one night none. See how you go with that. Then keep reducing as your body is coping with the levels your talking about and might react to a straight stop. Maybe see your dr about a blood test to check liver function and if any damage done as well. |
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"When it’s costing more than what’s in your pocket, simple as that"
I have to say that is nowhere near the correct way to gauge things like this !!!! I don't think that is a sensible reasonable thing to even say on such a topic !!! |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"If you need any help reply here and I'll open my filters so you can send me a pm.
If I can just butt-in here, I think that would be really cool.
Honestly, this thread revives my faith in fab! "
Thanks, imagine a world where people were actually considerate to each other and used the Internet as the powerful tool that it is? What a world that would be. |
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5 pints a day is about 70 units per week.
Estimated safe alcohol intake is about 14 units per week.
You are also not giving your liver any days off to recover so you could be doing yourself some damage.
Ideally you should have at least a few days a week with no alcohol. |
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"Hiding how much u drink
Hiding it from family
Missing work through drink
Every day having to have a drink
I'm now 2 years sober
Well done man, amazing achievement. ODAAT
I joined AA 8 months ago but I've recently started letting myself have the odd one now and again. so long as it stays that way I'm happy.
If not, back to the programme. "
Interesting.
What made you join in the first place? |
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"5 pints a day is about 70 units per week.
Estimated safe alcohol intake is about 14 units per week.
You are also not giving your liver any days off to recover so you could be doing yourself some damage.
Ideally you should have at least a few days a week with no alcohol. "
Remember George best? |
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By *litterbabeWoman
over a year ago
hiding from cock pics. |
My view of an alcoholic is someone who depends on it, can't manage without it and for them likely it's getting in the way of other activities.
My suggestion to you would be to to still go to the pub apart from 3 times a week and cut out the drinking while you're making dinner. Then you are still enjoying your social time and some social drinking but reducing your intake to 1/4 or less of what you currently have. |
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This is interesting and I'm seriously concerned. Would really appreciate others opinions on my situation.
I drink a bottle of wine most night.
I would say I'm d*unk 2 or 3 nights a week.
Probably very, very d*unk 1 night a week.
I very occasionally have an afternoon drink.
I do occasionally lie about the amount I drink to my husband.
However, I fuckin love it...lol and it does have an effect on my personality, I become more relaxed and slutty.
What you think, pm welcome x |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Sorry, I haven't had time to read the whole thread, but wanted to comment quickly.
1; Labels aren't always helpful, someone who doesn't drink much might consider their relationship with alcohol problematic. Likewise, someone who consumes a fair amount may not consider themselves to have an issue. It's all personal.
2; I can highly recomment One Year No Beer if you would like to explore your relationship with alcohol in a non-judgemental and supportive enviroment.
S x |
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By *litterbabeWoman
over a year ago
hiding from cock pics. |
"This is interesting and I'm seriously concerned. Would really appreciate others opinions on my situation.
I drink a bottle of wine most night.
I would say I'm d*unk 2 or 3 nights a week.
Probably very, very d*unk 1 night a week.
I very occasionally have an afternoon drink.
I do occasionally lie about the amount I drink to my husband.
However, I fuckin love it...lol and it does have an effect on my personality, I become more relaxed and slutty.
What you think, pm welcome x "
I think you should look at cutting down especially on the being very d*unk one night a week and feeling like you have to lie about your alcohol use.
I drink a few nights a week but I also don't drink at all a few nights a week.
I used to get d*unk more often than I do now, and I'm cutting back, to enjoy the feeling of the alcohol without feeling d*unk.
I think when you are having to lie about your alcohol use that is is a little bit of a signal.
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By *ohn KanakaMan
over a year ago
Not all that North of North London |
"This is interesting and I'm seriously concerned. Would really appreciate others opinions on my situation.
I drink a bottle of wine most night.
I would say I'm d*unk 2 or 3 nights a week.
Probably very, very d*unk 1 night a week.
I very occasionally have an afternoon drink.
I do occasionally lie about the amount I drink to my husband.
However, I fuckin love it...lol and it does have an effect on my personality, I become more relaxed and slutty.
What you think, pm welcome x "
I think you have a problem. You are lying about the amount you drink wgich is not a good sign.
And I'm assuming the nights yiu are d*unk or very drink you are drinking more than 1 bottle of wine. So maybe 10+ bottles of wine a week, that's a lot, you may feel more relaxed and slutty but that volume consistently is doing considerable damage |
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"Can you stop?
Without complaint?
The total units per week is probably on the side of, have a word mate, but ya know, British, it's kinda our thing.
There's no one to tell me to stop, I rarely get d*unk - its more social drinking than drinking to get plastered etc.
Its more of a habit, but if you were to say you can't go for a pint tomorrow it would be on my mind more than id like.
"
If you're drinking 2 cans every night whilst making dinner, that's not social drinking. And that last line above says there is an issue.
Perhaps try cutting back - 1 tin whilst cooking for example. Don't go cold turkey, start by cutting out a couple of drinks for a while, then another couple and so on.
But I would also consider talking to someone about why you feel the need to go to the pub every day. It sounds like loneliness and there are other things you can do to meet people rather than going to the pub. |
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