"I'm still sober"

Late last year, I decided I needed to stop drinking (after nearly 30 years of problem drinking, which was escalating). I sought help from a GP, who referred me to an addiction specialist. The specialist, who continues to treat me, referred me to a psychologist with experience in addiction, who I also continue to see. Despite that, I continued to have slips and became very disheartened after my fourth one. I telephoned ADIS and they referred me to Lives Lived Well (the Wooloongabba location).

Mel, from LLW, made contact with me within days. I then completed a questionnaire, attended an intake interview and started their day program within weeks. The content of the program is exceptional. The topics covered include: motivators - external and internal; stages of behaviour change; cravings/triggers/coping skills (urge surfing, mindfulness, breathing, delay-distract-decision); refusal skills; relapse process/prevention plan; sleep/nutrition/exercise; seeming irrelevant decisions; catch-it, check-it, change-it; breaking the rule effect; GRIT mindset; building a support network; values/boundaries; stress curve/dealing and coping with stress; goal setting (SMART goals); emotions; communication; problem solving and self-care.

The facilitators, Mel and Courtney, are awesome (kind, compassionate and non-judgmental). What really makes this program though, is the shared lived experience of the group members. I was so nervous on the first day but that left me when I realised that there was nothing unique about my experience in that group. They would, and did, understand. They offered me helpful insights that I hadn't had. I felt this immense sense of relief - including because I finally felt able to be honest and discuss things that I never ever had previously (and didn't think I ever would). I don't think there was a single member who didn't feel upset that the course was over on the final day.

In addition to the content, a number of people came to talk to us about areas as broad as employment, family/friend support and aftercare. I particularly appreciated Craig's talk, from which I understood the importance of 'creating a life that I don't want to regularly escape from', because that is how I will remain sober. I have attended the follow-on Monday lunch-time group since the program finished. It really helps me to have that to maintain motivation, have accountability and continue to connect with others in recovery. I have seen countless times that 'you must do the work' and always puzzled over what the 'work' was. I now understand exactly what the 'work' is and have so many tools at my disposal to maintain my sobriety (or, if the worst happens, to not let a slip become a relapse). But, also to create a life that I don't want to regularly escape from.

I am so much more confident in my sobriety since completing the course. I am also so much more peaceful and content. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to complete the course and it is no exaggeration to say that it has been life changing. Thanks so much Mel, Courtney and LLW. PS - I'm still sober (66 days and counting).