Carli - we all support each other and that is the best thing about this forum! When one is up -another is down - and it all works !

Hugs, Maggie x

Carli, I have to say that I feel the same way about TSM not being more well known. It seems like medical doctors won't give it a chance, which amazes me because certainly the relapse rate with rehabs and AA is nothing short of abysmal. I think that there are a lot of people for whom the thought of never having a drink again is such an overwhelming idea that they can't even think about going there. If this works for me, I will do what I can to spread the word to others.

I, too, am happy that at 26, you are working to put the bad years behind you. I know that you will have the opportunity to live a productive, happy life. I took a workshop last year with my 24 year old daughter about living life to the fullest. One of the key phrases I learned was "up until now". Whatever we have done in the past is behind us. We may have used alcohol to numb our pain, drank to excess, and hurt others with our drinking "up until now". Now we can choose a different life. Whenever I get down about my alcoholic past and relationships damaged due to my drinking, I repeat the phrase "up until now" and I feel peaceful and hopeful for the future.

Deena,
Hey! Thanks for your response. I hope all is well with you.
Yes, as far as awareness goes, if and when this works for me, I plan to share it with as many people *currently* suffering as possible. I will make sure to do my part and it sounds like you are prepared for something like that as well which is great!

As far as putting my bad years behind me at the age of 26, yes I am very grateful I have the opportunity to do so. I also really didn't have any other options. I needed to fix this problem or I was going to die in some tragic way. I couldn't keep myself out of horrible situations or stop myself from doing incredibly absurd things while drinking. I was in AA for most of my 20's which I can honestly say I am grateful for, it was an experience, but on the same not, I believe it has done a lot of damage.

Sounds like the workshop you and your daughter attended was great! "Up until now" sounds like a great phrase to live by. I will definitely keep it in the forefront of my mind and thank you so much for sharing!!

Wishing you a great day, Deena,

Carli