abstinence or TSM

Goin4More · **Posted:** Wed Jun 10, 2009 1:50 pm

hopeful wrote:

Yes, lena--I've read both posts for the "concerned spuse". Very good info.

I also do understand that Springrider was talking about stretching the envelope--by delaying that first drink a bit-- only on nal. The reason it makes sense to me is that, while this is principally a brain chemistry issue, there also seems to be an issue of mind set and habit. Some training of the mind along with getting rid of the chemicially induced cravings seems like it would make progress on TSM quicker. Of course, I am a complete no nothing on the subject--I hesitate to even post my feelings on this. But if my husband does start TSM, I'm going to have him read Springrider's post.

Aloha!

I'm not so sure this is true. Sinclair's rats didn't have to retrain their minds. The chemically induced cravings left - and they quit drinking.

It's natural to assume, as rational beings, that everything we do has some basis in our ability to choose or reject certain behaviors. To understand that the addict has literally lost the ability to choose is a hard pill to swallow - but is, in many cases, the truth of the matter. No one on this forum would ever choose alcoholism! Everyone on this forum would choose moderation, or abstinence. Mind set? Habit? Both are based on conditioned behavior - driven by craving.

Eliminate the craving, and you've restored the ability to choose. Most of us? Would choose moderation, or abstinence.

lena · **Joined:** Thu Feb 05, 2009 2:07 pm **Posts:** 929

G4M -- You have a point -- and not just on the top of your head! Actually, you raise an issue that has been eating at me for a while. I,m starting a new thread. See you there.

christyacc · **Posted:** Wed Jun 10, 2009 8:22 pm

Goin4More wrote:

hopeful wrote:

Yes, lena--I've read both posts for the "concerned spuse". Very good info.

I also do understand that Springrider was talking about stretching the envelope--by delaying that first drink a bit-- only on nal. The reason it makes sense to me is that, while this is principally a brain chemistry issue, there also seems to be an issue of mind set and habit. Some training of the mind along with getting rid of the chemicially induced cravings seems like it would make progress on TSM quicker. Of course, I am a complete no nothing on the subject--I hesitate to even post my feelings on this. But if my husband does start TSM, I'm going to have him read Springrider's post.

Aloha!

I'm not so sure this is true. Sinclair's rats didn't have to retrain their minds. The chemically induced cravings left - and they quit drinking.

It's natural to assume, as rational beings, that everything we do has some basis in our ability to choose or reject certain behaviors. To understand that the addict has literally lost the ability to choose is a hard pill to swallow - but is, in many cases, the truth of the matter. No one on this forum would ever choose alcoholism! Everyone on this forum would choose moderation, or abstinence. Mind set? Habit? Both are based on conditioned behavior - driven by craving.

Eliminate the craving, and you've restored the ability to choose. Most of us? Would choose moderation, or abstinence.

Excellent point!

abstinence or TSM

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