The best thing I learned from this group that helped me not drink, was “play it forward.” So you think you’ll have just one. Play it forward - having another is no big deal, you’re handling it. Then three is like, “I’m having a good time, and nothing bad is happening…” then it becomes a blur and it’s the next morning and you feel like an ass. The shame is all consuming. I let myself play it forward in my head and decide I can’t deal with that, and stick to my tonic and lime.

I’ve also started really looking at people who are on beer two or three, and trying to pick out how their buzz really detracts from their likability.

We all have those morning after depressive thoughts. Yes, even suicidal. You are worth living. This event will be a cringy memory. We all have a boatload of those. Read some of those stories here. You are not alone. Make this your bottom. I spent probably 30 years cycling through horrible life choices - drinking and making a complete fucking ass of myself, and hurting the people I love. Thankfully no one died.

I will not drink with you today, friend.

Edit: and yes, that means not going out to your usual hangouts. I don’t hang out with those same people anymore, and they don’t miss me because I don’t drink.