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Relapse of drinking

Posted By Onebe1985

"Relapse of drinking"

About: CGL Birmingham / Central & West Hub

(as a service user),

I was abstinent from alcohol for a total of 11 months in 2024. I then decided to go to a Halloween party, thinking I could withhold not having a drink being abstinent for so long but that was wasn’t the case not before long I was there drinking. I know for binge drinking but that was just 1 night of drinks. Again I thought now I can control drinking, then in February had a night of drinking for my birthday and then again in March.

I had a few drinks the Monday night, went to pick the kids up from school the Tuesday evening and the the head teacher greeted me and said I didn’t look right, however I explained I wasn’t feeling well ( having a slight hangover from the night before). To her it was a caused for concern. Not before long SS were at my door.( Kids were taking).

It was often I were having the drink I didn’t want to go back to my old habits so I reached out to CGL for help and went back to AA. While engaging with Dina and Jay I  have learnt different strategies to use especially when the urge for alcohol comes into play. They also mentioned the pros and cons of drinking, what I value and the impact alcohol had to these things I said I valued.

CGL is a real eye opener and really had me thinking of the reality of my drinking addiction. I really enjoyed the session and would encourage anyone to reach out. Today I am still sober and taking it one day at a time. Easy does it and it will work if you work it!!

Big Thanks to Jay and Dina for their support!!

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Responses

Response from Lydia Broom, Service User Involvement Lead, The Service User Involvement Team, Change Grow Live Birmingham yesterday
Lydia Broom
Service User Involvement Lead, The Service User Involvement Team,
Change Grow Live Birmingham

Submitted on 30/06/2025 at 12:22
Published on Care Opinion at 12:22

picture of Lydia Broom

Dear Onebe1985

Thank you for sharing your journey with such honesty and strength.

My name is Lydia and I am responsible for listening and responding to people’s feedback.

It’s clear that you’ve faced some incredibly difficult moments. Relapsing after 11 months of sobriety is something many people can relate to. It’s so easy to believe that one night won’t hurt, especially after such a long period of progress. And the involvement of Social Services must have been incredibly distressing. Having your family life affected in that way is something no one ever wants to experience.

It speaks volumes about your commitment to change that you responded by seeking support rather than giving up. That’s a powerful choice, and one that shows how deeply you care about your family and your future.

It’s also heartening to hear how much you’ve gained from working with Dina and Jay. I will make sure that your feedback is shared with them both and the rest of the team. I’m sure they will both really appreciate your kind words. I am sure that everyone who reads your story will recognise how much effort you have put into your recovery and I hope others are inspired by what you have shared to take the same steps.

You’re absolutely right! Easy does it, and it works if you work it. The strategies you’ve learned, the reflection on your values, and the support from AA and your sponsor are all signs of someone who is truly doing the work. You’re doing something incredibly important, and your strength is showing through every step you take.

Keep going, take care and thank you once again for reaching out to us.

Best wishes,

Lydia

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