I didn't feel I was very mindful about craving vs. habit this week, so I was very happy to see there was a slight decline. I started pouring half measures, and I think that helped when it was just a habit to be drinking. Have a great week everyone!
Tweed

That is a good idea to pour half measures Tweed - unfortunately my Guinness comes in one size cans !! My daughter turned up yesterday with two four packs for me .... I told her it would last me ages !!! She is really pleased with my progress too ..... is pouring the half measures helping you ? Do you drink wine ?

Hugs, Maggie xx

Yes, I'm a wine drinker- it might be too soon to tell if it's really helping....my theory is with the habitual drinking, it could cut it in half. I find I need to find reasons to leave the house in order not to drink- I need to get back to my hobbies.
Best wishes,
Tweed

I know what you mean about hobbies - mine sort of went by the wayside once the AL took more of a hold on my life. Anyway - I need to get down on the treadmill right now !!!

hugs, Maggie xx

Hi Tweed! In 5 weeks your consumption has been cut in half! That is very quick and amazing progress! Very happy for you!!

I had a couple of bad weeks when I wasn't keeping close track, but still taking the NAL. I'm pretty sure my consumption went up (fortunately not to pre-NAL levels). This week has been great, the Zoloft has kicked in, and my anxiety has eased. Instead of all-day drinking I am postponing the NAL till the afternoon and the cravings have eased and consumption is down to 3.5-4.5 per day, I am very pleased. Thanks for your concern - how are you doing?
Best wishes,
Tweed

My post disappeared ! Tweed - I replied to your post and now it has gone ! Maybe I forgot to submit it ? darn it. Anyway - now to try and remember what I said.

I did suggest that you do try to track your units - that way when you think the Nal isn't working, you can see by the units that it is indeed working ! And really happy that your intake has gone down for you !!

Cannot remember any other great words of wisdom so there probably weren't any! Got to get to bed - am tired and have to be up really early.

hugs, Maggie x

Thanks Maggie for the encouraging words! I've updated my signature and as I expected my consumption did go up (and may actually be higher than my estimate). I'm back on track, counting the drinks, delaying the NAL (and the first drink), and pouring 1/2 measures. My appetite has improved, I'm sleeping well (and having very interesting dreams) and the night sweats are better as well. Here's hoping I can remember all these positives!
Best wishes to all,
Tweed

Yesterday I had the best day in a very long time! I have maintained my resolve to not drink in the morning. I had a long lunch out with some former colleagues and mid-afternoon I realized I had only had 1.5 drinks and had no cravings at all! I didn't have another drink until after 8 p.m. When I told my husband he was very pleased and told me he had noticed that I seemed much happier as welll (that could be the Zoloft), but I do feel much more positive. I think a lot of that also has to do with checking in here and feeling part of a very supportive group. So, thanks to all of you!
Best wishes,
Tweed

Tweed, good for you!! Newlife