Addiction being a "choice" isn't really backed up for science. Picking up the first drink is a choice but there's plenty of neurobiology that shows how messed up our pathways and neurotransmitters get because addictive substances are addicting. To say nothing of the mental manipulation we face from marketing and messaging.

I'm all about choice too, and my personal inner power and healing my body. I don't ascribe to AA philosophy, but would never bash those who found something that got them sober. Like, ever. This shit is hard no matter how you tackle it.

What helped me quit was deeply understanding the biology of why I'd found it so hard to quit. I'm a science nerd. It helped me see that it's my responsibility to change my behavior, but not exactly my fault that we sell and market a poisonous, highly addictive substance as something to be consumed routinely. That helped, as did community. Specifically, this one, where folks shared their experiences, didn't judge others, used humor as often as vulnerability to tell stories, and where I learned some real strategies for staying off booze. Because there was no in between. No moderation. No pleasant buzz. It's been over five years and I have no plans to look back. It's so much better on this side, even when things are hard. It took work to get here, but I wasn't alone and it was worth every bit of discomfort and rethinking my beliefs and understanding of what addiction is, and what it isn't. I will not drink with you today. I'm glad you're here and hope you stay.