I was drinking heavily everyday for more than 20 years. I decided to quit but had no idea how physically dependent I was on alcohol. I had seizures, tremors, nightmares, cold sweats, vivid hallucinations...felt things crawling on my skin, heard conversations when I was alone and panicking. I couldn't walk by the time I asked to taken to the hospital. I was in the emergency room for 6 days in alcohol withdrawal protocol, had a resting heart beat of over 160 and thought I was having a heart attack. My nurses and doctors were so amazing. Non judgmental, compassionate, and incredibly encouraging. They, along with a steady intravenous flow of benzodiazepines, saved my life. Today, I am 90 days sober and LIFE IS AMAZING. stay strong everyone. If I can do it, YOU can do it
I couldn't walk on 3 different occasions while goin through with draw, horrible shakes, I just got out of hospital 2 weeks ago, I want to be sober the rest of my life, I'm 56 yrs old
Getting over withdrawal is the most relieving feeling in the world. everytime I have an appetite or everytime I have a full night's sleep I am so grateful. In a weird way alcoholism has been a blessing in my life I'm now sober and have a strong appreciation for small things that most people take for granted.
Yesss uve got it!! Detoxing gets so much harder everytime...i know this so well xxx each minute is like an hour and the no sleep is a total killer!! Days r like weeks xxxx plz god keek us strong..i get seizures and and everything....AWFUL AWFUL FEELING....IS COMPLETE PANIC!! LIBRIUM IS HEAVEN SENT ..IF U AV AN UNDERSTANDING DOCTOR ..some like 2 c u suffer ive been through that 2!! X
That comment is one I REALLY needed to read. I want to stop sooo bad i have been watching testimonies all day its Friday and I am not even leaving my house because i can hear the damn liquor store calling me sincerely, thanks
I'm on night three with barely any sleep. I have seen animals, heard voices, and it's very scary. I felt movement in the bed but it was just me, no one else around. I wouldn't wish this on no one. The silver lining in all this is I gave my life back to Jesus. I'm ashamed He had to let me get so low to realize I need Him. I pray that as the Lord takes this away, that I will never go back to my old ways. This is my second severe withdrawal and it was much worse this time. If you're struggling with alcohol? Turn to Jesus. If you're not ready for that? At least get some professional help. Do not give alcohol 30 years of your life like I did. God bless all of you.
@@sharons11157 dude, as aforementioned, nothing ever happens in the world without God's wish, and that means even my freewill and choice is God's sadistic will.
The worst feeling I'm going through it right now after my 4th relapse wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy can't sleep eat and just itching all the time x
@@happytimes3098 neuropathy… I got it, it sucks, I got peripheral neuropathy first and started going blind from drinking I couldn’t see 5 feet in front of me, double vision. same time I had alcoholic neuropathy, pins and needles from head to toe, itchy too, just a sign of serious nerve damage, later in life leads to dementia
I have had a bad alcohol problem since high school. Today I stopped and felt so insane I thought I was losing my mind. This is gonna be a tough journey, but thank you for your story and insight. This gave me hope and I can’t thank you enough. ✨here’s to sobriety
Good luck. I'm going to quit. I already have anxiety. Sometimes at night I would wake up way earlier than I wanted to and then couldn't go back to sleep. I'm sure alcohol made it worse.
Alcohol withdrawal or addiction can not be explained in words to those who havent felt it. There are things i went through with withdrawals that no physical pain could come close to touching, In fact pain or getting hurt felt good. To say withdrawal was the hardest thing i have been through is again wasted on words. There isnt a broken heart from love or a physical hit to the face or body that comes even close to that pain of withdrawal. If you want to see what its like to be in hell and be near the devil, Then follow the path he sets and he will gladly show you his face.
I know this is four years old, and the maker of this video probably doesn’t monitor it anymore, but I have a few things I want you to know. Well first I pray that you are still dry and doing well, but mostly I want to thank you for this 100% accurate description of your journey. It’s like a mirror image to me, but seeing you are out of the nightmare has given me hope. God Bless you and yours Dave
I relate to about EVERYTHING hes said. I was up to a handle of vodka a day as well. Used it to help me sleep, kept it next to my bed so when i woke up in the middle of the night, i had it ready. I dont remember nightmares(doesnt mean i didnt have em...), but i do recall hearing "voices". Physically, i would shake, cold sweats, feel tingly and itchy all over, couldnt sit still, heart beating out of my chest.....and i was in an ambulance twice in 2 days, and the 2nd time i went to the hospital, then detox/rehab for 7 days. It saved my life. Proud to be 34 days sober today.
My gosh a handle is 60 ounces of booze, just think about that. That’s equal to about 40 drinks a day. I thought a whole pint and a few beers a days for myself was hard to stop. I can’t even imagine this. You’re strong, great job on making it out alive.
I am a severe recovering alcoholic. Going through withdrawal each time that I did was the biggest uphill battle I could have ever imagined. I would have all of the symptoms, but each detox was slightly different. One unifying factor was that it was always worse than the last. I have been hospitalized over 10 times, one of them waking up from a 3 week long induced coma. Doctors were interviewing all of my family members and close friends asking what drugs I was on because they said the severity of my withdrawal couldn't be explained by just alcohol. However at age 33, I've STILL NEVER done a single drug (Of course, besides alcohol, because it is technically a drug.) I've had two grand mal seizures. I was kicked out of one rehab and completed a second one without a certificate of completion because the staff said that I didn't "truly work the program" (Aka, they didn't think I was ready to quit drinking..... And I wasn't.). Each time I was hospitalized, I had gone of my own will because I wanted help quitting, but I started drinking shortly after being released. Every time I had a BAC over . 3. One time after getting into a fight with my parents, I chugged a shit ton of brandy. Within a half hour I had my boyfriend take me to the hospital because I knew I was in trouble.... My BAC was .495! I don't even understand how that was possible considering I was perfectly functional. I had the perfect life full of success and happiness and derailed it for a few years but now I life a blissful sober life. (And you're right, sober highs are higher!) Point being, it's a revolving door of hell, failure, loneliness and pain. And I didn't even digress on the actual horror of what your body physically experiences during withdrawal. Props to you for getting sober and I enjoyed your video!
I just stopped drinking 3 days ago...had one helluva binge and I'm just coming down slowly but surely...what an awful ride... nightmares...sweats... depression... no appetite. I've lost ton of weight but I'm feeling stronger and Ive decided I'm finally going to get this demon off my back
Have a family member who was an alcoholic for years. He became infected with 'bacteremia', an alcohol-induced blood infection that literally turned his brain to mush. Gratefully we took him to the hospital where he was properly diagnosed. It took almost 3 months of hospitalization and the insertion in his chest of a PICC before he was reasonably back to normal. He didn't even remember the first 30-45 days of his hospitalization. The doctors told us that had we not brought him to the hospital the infection would have probably done permanent damage to his brain. Alcohol ain't no joke! It's probably the worse of the drugs, long term, in that it attacks every major system in the body.
This video brought tears to my eyes because I needed to hear this, I’ve decided to recently stop drinking after being a “heavy” drinker for 6-7 years, I’m experiencing some of these symptoms and I’m a little scared but I’m determined to continue this and change my life forever!! I went to an AA meeting today and it was the best thing I did in 2022 and I realize so many people struggle or have struggled with this drug. I will continue to pray and be strong and one day I can make a video myself to help someone who’s going to take the path many have taken and the one I’ve started to take!! You guys pray for me and I encourage anyone in the process stop quick this terrible drug/drink also to keep going and we can do this guys🙏🏽💪🏽💪🏽 Love you guys TEAM SOBER# 4 life!!!!
I was a binge drinker for many years. Not everyday, about 3 days per week. I always had trouble finding the stop switch once I got started. I got to realising on the days off alcohol I was actually living with constant withdrawal. Anxiety, insomnia, depression, fatigue. Something had to change. I found the first 3 weeks of sobriety hell. Anxiety through the roof. By week 6 I was feeling much better. It's different for everyone obviously. Hang in there....
I'm almost a week in. I literally have to self talk myself through things. I feel like everyone is watching me, the anxiety is ridiculous worrying about everything .
@@bangkokstevie Thank You. I didn't know alcohol was such a problem for me until I realized it's all I did , you know, you said it you can rationalize anything. Be well
Well ,when the Germans bombed pearl harbor in 1941,do you think those Canadian solders in pearl harbor were sober???! No way,once they saw the German helicopters circling pearl harbor they drank more. Then they set up a ploy to get the Germans to land in Pearl Harbor,the Canadian soldiers put up a hug blinking neon sign,it said Free beer for all German nazi helicopter pilots. Today only!! That was in June 1941, the fuckn stupid Germans fell for this crock of shut. Once the German landed several thousand helicopters,and a few led Zeppelins, the stage was set.!! The Canadian soldiers ambushed them,they beat the shit out of the German fucks with Molson golden beer bottles. It was crazy,it was intense,it was quite hoppy you might at.. but it was all American. So,think about it when you hear a helicopter,it could be a German nazi, make sure you have BEER.!! AND PROCEED TO DESRYOY THE ENEMY.;)
Im 55 and still struggling, quit for 16 years and went back. Your right on brother. It can mess with you bad. Your brain is not broken. Just needs some healing. Thanks for posting.
chuck guerin Hi was there anything specific that happened after 16 years that triggered you to start drinking? Or was it more like '16 years I've proven ai can handle myself so I should be OK to drink casually again?'
@@BlackLabelSlushie Not our business unless you have a personal reason for asking. The ONLY truly important thing I took from AA was the rule about no cross talk; meaning respect everyone;s right to speak unless they invite you in == dunno what the rules are here mate. I had 5 years early on when I recognized I crossed that line == creepy boyfriend I met in an AA meeting which accounts for my aversion .... my Dad was slipping away and when I refused to see him he threatened him. I lured him to where I worked in a dangerous part of town because cop cars were circling all day long and like all bullies he ran away. Could happen to anyone but frankly didn't have social life after that and then me and my mum put up the last Xmas tree; I had one drink took 4 months it was worse. t's what happens. I don't think people can drink casually again; I know of one or two famous cases but exceptions don't prove the rule.
You are a trooper for saying this. If you really are drinking morning to night like I was, go to a fucking hospital, please. Really do call 911, it starts with music, then voices, then the rest. And listen, you do NOT want to know the rest.
I remember my anxiety being through the roof and being terrified. I couldn’t sit still, couldn’t rest and I wanted to run. What a horrifying experience that I wish to never go through again.
Oh man, I remember being in the hospital and pacing the halls all night long without sitting down once. The fear and panic, yes horrifying. Once my BAL was around .4 and I was getting loads of Ativan and the nurse said "I've never seen anyone on this much Ativan still be awake". It was horrifying. I'm so glad I don't have to go through that again if I don't drink.
What a FANTASTIC video. I can relate so clearly and shockingly. Thanks you brother for sharing this. I’m currently 36 and at my peak usage… and a highly functional alcohol user. But I’m working on it.
That's it EXACTLY. I have been about a week sober and I feel like everyone is watching me. Been down the avenue a few times. Thanks for keeping me sober today.
I drank alcohol off and on for 35 years. When I turned 52 years old, I just decided to quit. I was never a daily drinker, more like a weekend drinker. However, the time came to stop. I had no problems stopping. It has now been 8 years since I had a drink. I really don't miss it at all. I feel better and my mind is more clear and now I seldom feel depressed. I prefer living the alcohol-free lifestyle.
I was and am probably still an alcoholic. Thanks, Chris. Here's a fact: regular alcohol use supplants a necessary hormone that regulates the heartbeat. If you take alcohol throughout the day, and try to quit "cold turkey," you very much risk a heart-attack, stroke, or at the least cardial arrhythmia. At the worst: it is the only withdrawal that I am aware of that can cause death. Please all: be careful.
Going through this right now.... Alcohol is a dangerous poison folks. Been 5 days dry and I’m still feeling heavy withdrawal symptoms. But if you really want to stop, then you will. Help yourselves and god will help you. Thank you man, I have a hard time explaining what it feels like to my people.
@@2needey1 nah. Entering month 4 absolutely dry! Day and night guys. I pray for you all to find the strength to overcome the hardships of getting sober. It is all worth it!
That’s why I can’t quit. I get to two days and the nausea and headaches are unbearable. Literally one sip relieves those feelings. I’ll have to check in to a hospital to get monitored.
Bugs under the skin, trembling so hard you can’t use a remote control, closed eye hallucinations that lead to hellscape nightmares, corner eye phantoms (named mine Tom) vomiting, sweating, and the worst bowel movements that seem like they never stop, it’s absolutely terrible, save yourself the problem and never get to that point it sucks, I’ve been there you don’t want it
I had a severe case of the withdrawals for 72 hours. I thought I was literally going insane. I am now 11 days sober, cold turkey. I went 7 months sober before cold turkey and ended up relapsing. I am going to be stronger this time and stay clean! Alcohol is the devil and it will only bring you down! Everyone going through withdrawals watching this, stay strong. You can do it!
Spot on. Day 2. Laying in bed covered in cold sweat. Jolting awake every 10 minutes. Also having weeeird 30 second dreams. I drank a fifth of whiskey everyday for a year, but haven’t had a fully sober day for 5 years
This perfectly explains the horrors of it. I have for a long time been trying to find a way to explain it. I luckily ended up in a hospital on a phenobarbital taper for a week and I am forever grateful to not be battling those withdrawal experiences anymore.
This is excellent and very helpful. My closest friend has experienced withdrawal in exactly the way you describe. Change is always coming, you will either get better or worse. Once you are getting up in the middle of the night to drink to be able to fall asleep, the end of this journey is near.
I had to keep reminding myself that it took me years to get in such bad shape so it was going to take time for my brain, body and soul to heal. For the 1st yr I was in a strange place feeling nearly a high bc I was finding out how life was without alcohol. I didnt even know who I was. First year of sobriety was surreal, scary and wonderful. As I heard it said and found it so true...the worst day sober is better than the best day drunk. 1 day at a time. Minute by minute if need be. The longer Ive been sober the better it gets
4yrs later I am now seeing this and I needed this. Me and my ex went thru this and he passed away. It took me a year to end up in the hospital. I felt so good for awhile but not anymore. This helped me today thank you.
I was just searching withdrawl on TH-cam just so I could remember what it was like and to keep up with my recovery. You said/did all the things I did. I ramped up my drinking through the years and still maintained my career and family. I googled all sorts of things while going through withdrawl. They all sounded like me and didn't sound like me at the same time. Thanks for this video. It reminds me to keep going. 9mos sober in KC! Much love and thanks again.
Do you guys remember having severe nausea all the time? I think I'm definitely going through an alcohol detox and the nausea is Non-Stop. Also because I work outside and it's summertime I'm cramping up like a b**** does anyone else have that same experience I want to be certain it's alcohol DTs. I don't drink anything heavy, just 8% Malt Liquor it's the frequency that worries me. I've been drinking it nonstop for the last 4 months. prior to that I hadn't missed a day in a year, is that sufficient enough use to warrant a physical addiction?
@@darthnihilus511 Everyone deals with the physical addiction in different ways. You might be having some minor to moderate withdrawl. You really need to stay hydrated and listen to your body. The fact you're working and not in the hospital is a good sign. Just be careful and don't over do it. Tell someone you trust at work that will have your back. That can take you to the ER if you have heart palpitations or tremors or cant keep mild food/liquids down. Just take it slow. And again listen to your body. HYDRATE!! If something comes up that scares you, go to the ER and let them know you're experiencing withdrawl. It can be dangerous without help. Take care xoxo
Thanks for this!! I have an anxiety for years now. O was dependend to alcohol to ease my anxiety and panic attacks. Been drinking for 8 years now. Just realized that its the alcohol thats worsen it. Im on my second day now and withdrawal symptoms sucks! Lets do this. Life is more happier when you are natural and under no influence of anything to fake happiness.
Thanks man. I really appreciate hearing this. You basically just told my story. I went through the same process and ended up in the same depths. I also managed to crawl out (not on my first attempt) and learned to live a life of recovery. Now I know my happiness lies in remaining out of that dark hole, standing here in the amazing sunlight of sobriety.
This is the best example of alcohol withdrawal I've ever seen. Every story is different, yet the same. I felt strange people under my bed and the would come up from behind the bed and fly out the door. I would stare in the mirror talking to the person in the mirror which of course was me, yet it was a different person and room on the other side. 6 and 7 days of no sleep.....on and on. Now I'm going back to withdrawal tomorrow. Trying to have enough alcohol till I get there. The fear is real so I keep drinking to keep them at bay. This comment bought me 8 minutes of freedom from that fear...time to go back...
Years ago I went thru the bottle ache, one week and 4 days I was locked up in my home having full on hallucinatory trips both audible and visual, a fever from hell and shakes that felt like an internal earthquake. I decided I got my drunk self into that mess I will take myself out of it cold turkey. If I died I died, no one would have missed me as I burned so many bridges in my drunk days I may as well have been a pariah.. I am sober now and took my life back in spades!!
Thanks Chris! Your story is very similar to mine. I've had a restart a few times. I now have a new saying for myself every time I get the urge "going to the withdrawals is not worth it anymore"
I've been trying to stop for the past two years. I have severe anxiety and always end up at the liquor store to calm my nerves. It's a vicious cycle. I'm now trying to taper off. Thanks for the video!
Wow, your story is so Similar to my own. September will be 3 years not a single drop. The physical aspects of withdrawal were a nightmare but the mental effects and seemingly like I was going insane and seeing and hearing things that were not there was absolutely terrifying. Trying to hide the effects from my spouse was impossible. Luckily having someone that care for me and the hospital nurses an doctor follow my progress was so integral to my pull out of the hole. Even though one nurse said i would be back with the same symptoms shortly, it gave me the resolve to make sure they never saw me again. Thank you for sharing your story.
That was an amazing description of the horrors of withdrawal. I went through it myself but was able to eventually quit alcohol, I’ve been sober for 23 years and can honestly say they’ve been really good years. If you are going through it right now it is important that you understand that all isn’t lost you can definitely climb out of the abyss, ask for help there’s so much available. Good luck x
I felt the need to comment, since I too am a recovering alcoholic. "Been there and done that", as they say. I can tell you with certainty how much your making this video and sharing will be beneficial to others who are struggling Happy New Year and wish you well. Dale Andrews, R.N. Lake Charles, LA
That was the most accurate assessment of alcoholism/withdrawal I’ve heard thus far. 🤝🏾 great analysis! Thanks for sharing & this video is still so relevant 5 years later.
I used to drink Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Usually alone just watching movies and the such, And like any addiction although mostly psychological in my case just wanted more every time. Decided to quit a few weeks back and how I now feel. MAN I can never go back to feeling like that. Insane how much it heightens your stress and anxiety when you think it's actually helping. Only bad effects are the mornings for me. Head feels like a brick and can't get up. But think this is a shock to the system having deep sleep. Easing off in week three and now getting up at 7 every day which I haven't done in my adult life. Stay strong people, it's worth ditching this poison for so many reasons. And if you are a much heavier drinker than me please get some medical support in slowing down first.
I cold turkey it on March 10th 2021.. After abusing alcohol for 6 years ... I stop drinking because 5 days straight I binge drink cheap liquor and mixing with Patron .. I had DT s but after a week and a half .. my alcohol withdrawals went away ... Now working out everyday and walking my dog ... Thanks to God and my family
I quit alcohol after drinking heavily and daily for a few years, I stopped cold Turkey. After about 25ish days crippling anxiety set in and just won’t let up. I’m 92 days sober today and can’t seem to shake it!
I went through a cycle of bender/cold turkey/ severe withdrawals. Finally found info on tapering with alcohol that worked for me and that kept me propped up and semi-functional for a few years. I eventually ended that cycle with a visit to the doctor and a medical taper on benzodiazepines (in this case librium). A lot of people don't mention this but there is a thing called "kindling". Meaning every time you go through with withdrawals, your next withdrawal phase will be worse until eventually you're in seizure and actual DT territory. My last cold turkey withdrawal, I had auditory hallucinations, some visual hallucinations when it was dark, severe diaphoresis, severe nausea, going from hot to cold constantly, and severe insomnia where I stayed up for 4 days straight with no sleep at all which only exacerbated the auditory hallucinations. If you want to quit drinking heavily just do the research and understand that you might not be able to cold turkey safely. In this case doing a medical detox is the safest option, if you don't have access to medical care for whatever reason then look up how to do an alcohol taper at home. The alcohol taper is extremely hard for some people but if you can make it work it can be the first step in the recovery process or at least a way to stop the bender train for a while.
Woah woah, can you elaborate on “kindling” I’m a week in and last night was a twisted mind warp.I almost called an ambulance but I made it. Are you saying the next time I feel not so great it’s going to be worse. Or are you saying if I drink again and attempted cold turkey (which I’m doing) the detox will be worse. I don’t know if that is coherent. I’m still rattled from last night.
Currently up in the middle of the night with tremors sweating like crazy. I can’t stop shaking, twitching, tossing and turning. I relate to ALOT of what you said. Thanks man
3 days in from my last slip, had so many over a 20 year period. I know it's going to get worse over the next few days and weeks. Watching as many vids as I can to reinforce that if others have made it through the darkness there is no reason why I can't. Thanks for sharing your journey.
Thank you. My brother is beginning his withdrawals and it’s very scary and sad to see him that way. But his family loves him and wants him to conquer this demon of his.
Get Scott’s book Drinking Sucks. Your brother needs supplements to heal his brain. Thoughts and prayers for his success. Family is soooo important to recovery. Don’t expect perfection
It sounds like we were at about the same level. Absolute hell. Sleep was just half awake nightmares for so long. I got what I called "The Yips" where you're kinda jolt and gasp yourself awake whenever you mildly start to fall asleep. Miserable. I honestly thought I was going to die every morning. I wanted to stop soooooo bad. I didn't want to drink at all. I HAD TO. I don't think I could have detoxed on my own. I got lucky and my body started to shut down and I landed a sweet 2 night stay in Intensive Care with about 6 more days in the normal hospital afterward. I've been sober ever since. About 4 years. Anyone reading this that is currently dealing with this, just know, there is still life in you. Seek help one way or another. Detox is terrifying but soo worth it. And when it's over, start some new hobbies. You'll need them. It will suck, but not too long. And once you're feeling better, you'll probably see this incredible version of yourself you've never known before. With tons of miserable life experienve that just adds to your strengths and wisdom. Stress builds character you know... Good luck!
"The Yips" are probably the worst withdrawal symptom I've ever experienced. Literally makes you feel like you're being tortured to stay awake anywhere from 1-5+ nights. I'm surprised that more people haven't come forward with describing this symptom because it is so rough the first few nights.
Man , I just severely withdraw’d for the three days and I’m still going through actually but the serious scary stuff I’d over with 🤞🏽 I locked myself in my room with a case of water and basically just completely lost my mind . You basically described to a T . The weird scary dreams while being half awake , felt like someone was crawling around my bed but no one was on the room , seeing the animals that weren’t actually there etc , I was convinced I was “crazy” and would never come back to sanity . I’m still shaking and sweating with bad anxiety but at least seeing and hearing shit is gone . I signed up for rehab I don’t ever want another drop of alcohol to hit my lips . Fuck that poison !
I am 71 and semi retired high school teacher. I never used to drink that much beer or wine and sometimes went for years without a drink. But due to a personal loss, I have become a functioning alcoholic for about 5 years. It has been getting increasingly worse. Over the last year friends have been commenting on it and letting me know they were worried about me. And then about a week ago I had a real wake up call. I was riding my bike down the sidewalk and fell over. Crashed flat on my ass. A lady pulled her car over and asked if I was all right. She could tell I was intoxicated. Evidently she reported me to the police and a policeman who I have known for years called me into the station to interview me. I was on my bike so he did not arrest me. But he did give a breath test and told me I was way over the legal limit. I live in a small town where everybody knows everybody. So I'm fairly sure the community will come to know I have a drinking problem. The time has come to deal with this problem. Your vids really help because I know I'm not alone.
A 72 yr old friend started alcohol after his wife passed, when he was 78 yr old the cops arrested him in his house, disowned everything and put him in senior housing. After selling his house, he was forced to pay everything including his treatment.
I figured I could take all the nausea and the tremors and the other general pain and discomfort of withdrawal when I tried to dry out.... The nightmares, depression and suicidal ideations is what freaked me out. I didn't see it coming. I didn't know that our bodies worked like that. Thanks for posting this.
I was drunk every Friday and Saturday for about 12 years. I was a bad binge drinker. But I never drank Monday to Thursday. But I never missed a weekend of wild binge drinking. I guess I'm really lucky I didn't get addicted to alcohol. Or at least I don't think I was because when I decided to quit I just stopped and nothing happened. I guess I just liked to party and binge for a good time rather than addiction. I'm watching videos as I worry about a Friend and not myself. I haven't drank in several years . But now I realize how lucky I am. I just quit drinking when my daughter was born and never had a problem. Maybe it's because I never drank during the week?? I never could do that. My Sunday hangover was bad enough that I didn't want any more until Friday lol. Anyhow I just grew up I guess when kid was born and alcohol and good times just faded away. It's not even something I thought about...i just quit. I'm so lucky
Dude have the same problem, during the week I could never drink or not so much but at Friday or Saturday I did an real binge drinking, 12 years already, Im 28 years old. But I gonna stop this garbage now, reading all this storys is really terrible.
Similar story. I would drink heavy spirits (vodka) like a wild animal on Sat and Sun and when Monday came would stop. But that changed in last year and I started drinking lighter alcohol (beer) on Monday just to get through the work days. Then it would stretch to Tue, Wed, Thu until I physically could not do it (throwing up). I guess my body is pretty strong but the latest withdrawals are insane. I must stop there is no other choice
Binge drinking is drinking nevertheless. I googled this bc like him my tolerance is different in the sense that my body doesn’t warn me but interestingly I’ve had horrible binging moments and after doing it so many years.. it turned into drinking more bc I never quit and since I didn’t have symptoms.. I didn’t worry as much. Well, I’m here to say, that is a total lie we tell ourselves. Too much of anything is bad for you. I’ve felt feelings of disassociation, sadness, feeling almost robotic or not being able to enjoy simple things in life.. it turns everything into a total blah that I don’t want to experience anymore so regardless of whether I get all the classic symptoms.. I choose to be sober, bc I don’t want to feel crazy. Blessings to all those out there trying to fight this demon.. it’s possible and it feels so good to be rid of it!
@@prettydalila the point of my post was to point out despite heavy bing drinking I never became physically ADDICTED to alcohol. Of course binging wasn’t good for me. But I never had to have a drink to stop my hands from shaking or to feel normal. So when I stopped bing drinking I had zero withdrawal or any effect whatsoever. I was very lucky, it could have easily went the other way. My heart hurts for those who did become physically addicted due to binging
Your perspective on this sounds very familiar! At my worst in withdrawal I also googled all of this stuff and actually concluded to myself that I was psychotic and had schizophrenia. The brain is mighty powerful but 6 months later I'm back to leading a perfectly normal SOBER healthy life. I love every minute of it and in a weird kind of way my 2 weeks of withdrawal hell actually did me a favour, it's made me appreciate every little thing I have and just the thoughts of those DT's, tremors, hallucinations, thoughts of impending doom (I 100% thought I'd taken it too far that time and was begging for just 1 more chance) makes me shudder and I will never go there again.
I have never listened to a better definition of alcohol withdrawal,I’ve gone through all of those things mate,and still do.power to you for putting that out there and much love
Thanks for your insight. I’ve had a rough year due to back problems. As you know, opioids are the latest epidemic. Alcohol seems to be the devil I know. What to do? Yes I’ve seen many doctors about my back condition. Let’s just say they’re not that good at alleviating the pain. The hardest part this past year is re-training myself to slow the F down! It’s harder than you think. And thanks again for your honesty and candor about this condition.
The hearing voices and seeing thing were the worst for me. At its peak they had to strap me to the bed and give lorazapam. It was so scary because I would have short moments lucidity and have no idea of where I was
Thank God that mine wasn’t severe, but it was moderate. I’d say 1-10 it was a 6. What’s it feel like? It felt like every cell in my body was screaming at me…. aching for alcohol. It felt like a bad case of Covid but twice as bad. Never gonna drink again.
Thank you for posting your story. I'm in the middle of trying to help my older sister with her alcohol abuse. I can't relate to this, I don't know what she's feeling or thinking, at least until I saw your story. Now I get it... She's gone in for detox 3 times but nothing more. No rehab, no program to help her kick it. She just goes right back to the bottle. She keeps talking about the past, our father leaving, our mother dying, all negative thoughts and lots of fear. She keeps repeating how afraid she is and how alone she feels. Her kids are grown and moved out, her husband died and she's all alone. The alcohol has caused her to fall twice, weeks apart causing a shattered ankle and then a shattered wrist, and last night she fell again hitting her face on her desk leaving a nasty black eye. She's a mess! She's now on a medical leave from her 2 jobs which only gives her more time at home to drink vodka 24/7. She lives an hour away but I've been driving out to see her 3x a week to check in. Her lease ended (or she's being evicted, idk which)...She's a master liar and hides the truth about everything, making it even harder to help her when I don't know a damn thing. I found her a new apartment and have been packing her things to move her by the end of the month. All these changes are only making matters worse for her. The system of help is so screwed up, these places who offer rehab expect her to call everyday to keep herself active on their wait list. She can't even load the dishwasher for God sake, I found an electric hand mixer and a pack of cigarettes she loaded the other day that she put thru a wash cycle. It's shocking to see the crazy shit she's doing. Her stories repeat, she talks to herself out loud, cries on and off all day about missing our mother or her kids. It's non stop depression with vodka bottles hidden in sofa cushions and behind furniture all over her apartment. When I'm not there she's driving to the liquor store drunk to get more booze or she calls Uber eats to bring her more. I want to take her car keys, she can't be driving like that let alone with a busted foot!! Places I've called for help charge $25k to $35k for a 30 day on site, live in facility for rehab. $1k a day is the worst investment ever, we can't afford that! It's so aggravating. She has medicaid so we have to go with the wait list idea but she struggles to even use her phone. She's just so out of it, everything basic just seems so foreign and overwhelming to her. The bottle and her smokes is all she wants. I'm at a loss with what to do, and the intervention stuff we see on A&E is only for TV. It's not done in reality, at least no place I have found does that. This will kill her if I don't find a place that can take her ASAP.
You really opened up and told the real story of yourself. That choice had to be hard. Im not a drinker but both my parents were. I just want to let you know from my eyes your a good man reaching out to help others. God bless you and congratulations.
Thank you for your honesty and sharing. I’m only three weeks sober and I went to detox for three days. I only had sleeplessness and anxiety and depression. You helped me stay sober today.
@@sharons11157 He needs to decrease consumption slowly, in preparation. Going through withdrawals in jail is AWFUL, been there a few times. You have to be on your toes a bit when there, withdrawing makes that especially hard.
Feels like D E A T H . That is what it feels like . Once you lose the routine you lose your life ... prepare yourself to start rebuilding yourself up from scratch - not for everybody , that much I can assure you .
Clear and honest explanations, thank a lot. I am at day 4; my hand shakes are almost gone, felt less anxious than when I was drinking but my sleeping habit gone from bad to worse. I would wake up some time in the early morning and drink more and go to sleep. Now i cant, wide awake at 5am only after a couple of hour sleep 😔 After 32 years of drinking my first ever attempt to quit and not as bad as i thought it would be. I can see the light end of the tunell.
I have the same issue with opiates: websites describe the withdrawals as a bad flu, aching, diarrhea, etc. The reality is truly horrifying, much like alcohol: horrible sensations, memories, experiences coming from inside and out, feeling confused and desperate. I think having more humane wording on websites describing withdrawals would mean more humane treatment of people in withdrawals, which is a major issue, imho
I'm trying to get help but I've had 2 hospital detoxes and there saying you've done it again so I can't even get the help, I tried staying sober for 24 hours yesterday and the hallucinations were bad this time, I do AA meetings but it just wants to make cry because you always feel alone in the condition but you realise it's happening everywhere, I'm going to non stop ring my doctor today because I've had seizures many times so I need the meds again but unless I truly address why I drink and ill be honest I can't open about it I'll just start again, everyone who has this disease your are not alone, bless you all x
Im not really a heavy drinker in general other than certain occasions but have felt like this a lot lately after a night of letting loose/blacking out. I think I have had my last drink. Thanks for sharing your video.
Whatching this on my day 2 without alcohol after 8 years of drinking
Did ya make it?
I was drinking heavily everyday for more than 20 years. I decided to quit but had no idea how physically dependent I was on alcohol. I had seizures, tremors, nightmares, cold sweats, vivid hallucinations...felt things crawling on my skin, heard conversations when I was alone and panicking. I couldn't walk by the time I asked to taken to the hospital. I was in the emergency room for 6 days in alcohol withdrawal protocol, had a resting heart beat of over 160 and thought I was having a heart attack. My nurses and doctors were so amazing. Non judgmental, compassionate, and incredibly encouraging. They, along with a steady intravenous flow of benzodiazepines, saved my life. Today, I am 90 days sober and LIFE IS AMAZING. stay strong everyone. If I can do it, YOU can do it
Just wow dude
I can't get help I've had multiple seizures
I couldn't walk on 3 different occasions while goin through with draw, horrible shakes, I just got out of hospital 2 weeks ago, I want to be sober the rest of my life, I'm 56 yrs old
Did you ever feel scared of everything like disconnect or overly aware of your mortality
the last 3 times I drank I ended up in er for alcohol withdrawal, massive shaking, I'm working on myself everyday
Getting over withdrawal is the most relieving feeling in the world. everytime I have an appetite or everytime I have a full night's sleep I am so grateful. In a weird way alcoholism has been a blessing in my life I'm now sober and have a strong appreciation for small things that most people take for granted.
Totally my experience, tx Garrett!
Beautifully said. I agree 110%
I need that, In so much physical & mental anguish rn.🤢
@@captainplanet7735 How are you now Captain Planet
Wonderful comment. It was a victory to even be able to walk to the bathroom. Because I was crawling and puke in a bucket.
I know I have another drunk in me, but I don't think I have another detox in me. So I'm staying sober for today!
I can't even read the word drink 😥
Yesss uve got it!! Detoxing gets so much harder everytime...i know this so well xxx each minute is like an hour and the no sleep is a total killer!! Days r like weeks xxxx plz god keek us strong..i get seizures and and everything....AWFUL AWFUL FEELING....IS COMPLETE PANIC!! LIBRIUM IS HEAVEN SENT ..IF U AV AN UNDERSTANDING DOCTOR ..some like 2 c u suffer ive been through that 2!! X
That comment is one I REALLY needed to read.
I want to stop sooo bad
i have been watching testimonies all day
its Friday
and I am not even leaving my house because i can hear the damn liquor store calling me
sincerely, thanks
amen brotha.
JayHawkJD85 I just finished having the DTs, hallucinations the whole 9 yards. I don't have another one in me.
I'm on night three with barely any sleep. I have seen animals, heard voices, and it's very scary. I felt movement in the bed but it was just me, no one else around. I wouldn't wish this on no one. The silver lining in all this is I gave my life back to Jesus. I'm ashamed He had to let me get so low to realize I need Him. I pray that as the Lord takes this away, that I will never go back to my old ways. This is my second severe withdrawal and it was much worse this time. If you're struggling with alcohol? Turn to Jesus. If you're not ready for that? At least get some professional help. Do not give alcohol 30 years of your life like I did. God bless all of you.
its gets better day by day and night by night. stay strong mate
@@lukemitchell1975 thank you bro.
May Good GOD Bless You. And Congratulations on Your Commitment To Follow Blessed Jesus.
@@Luchaliterature God forgives your sins of you ask him, so you won't go to hell if you do.
@@sharons11157 dude, as aforementioned, nothing ever happens in the world without God's wish, and that means even my freewill and choice is God's sadistic will.
Alcohol withdrawal is awful especially after binge drinking. I'm glad im over it. God bless you all reading this🙏🏼
The worst feeling I'm going through it right now after my 4th relapse wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy can't sleep eat and just itching all the time x
@@happytimes3098 neuropathy… I got it, it sucks, I got peripheral neuropathy first and started going blind from drinking I couldn’t see 5 feet in front of me, double vision. same time I had alcoholic neuropathy, pins and needles from head to toe, itchy too, just a sign of serious nerve damage, later in life leads to dementia
I have had a bad alcohol problem since high school. Today I stopped and felt so insane I thought I was losing my mind. This is gonna be a tough journey, but thank you for your story and insight. This gave me hope and I can’t thank you enough. ✨here’s to sobriety
I’m tryna to stop right now smh your story is my story , y’all pray for me , thank you ❤️🙏🏾
I hope you’re doing good brother, I’m about to go to detox, please let me know how it’s going
We will pray 🙏 for you good is to accept we have a problem and that we are alcoholic.
@@drummer856 How are you folks doing now?
My heart is with all of you, stay strong loves and remember that if you fall it is NEVER too late to try get up stronger than before
Good luck. I'm going to quit. I already have anxiety. Sometimes at night I would wake up way earlier than I wanted to and then couldn't go back to sleep. I'm sure alcohol made it worse.
Alcohol withdrawal or addiction can not be explained in words to those who havent felt it. There are things i went through with withdrawals that no physical pain could come close to touching, In fact pain or getting hurt felt good. To say withdrawal was the hardest thing i have been through is again wasted on words. There isnt a broken heart from love or a physical hit to the face or body that comes even close to that pain of withdrawal. If you want to see what its like to be in hell and be near the devil, Then follow the path he sets and he will gladly show you his face.
Took 3 days for withdrawals to start next thing I know I'm in intensive care being strapped down to a bed do not try and quit drinking on your own .
I know this is four years old, and the maker of this video probably doesn’t monitor it anymore, but I have a few things I want you to know.
Well first I pray that you are still dry and doing well, but mostly I want to thank you for this 100% accurate description of your journey. It’s like a mirror image to me, but seeing you are out of the nightmare has given me hope. God Bless you and yours Dave
I relate to about EVERYTHING hes said. I was up to a handle of vodka a day as well. Used it to help me sleep, kept it next to my bed so when i woke up in the middle of the night, i had it ready. I dont remember nightmares(doesnt mean i didnt have em...), but i do recall hearing "voices". Physically, i would shake, cold sweats, feel tingly and itchy all over, couldnt sit still, heart beating out of my chest.....and i was in an ambulance twice in 2 days, and the 2nd time i went to the hospital, then detox/rehab for 7 days. It saved my life. Proud to be 34 days sober today.
This is totally how i was..it was a total living nightmare ..
@PALTOOL1111 me 2??
How are you doing now, Autumn?
Awful worst feeling xx
My gosh a handle is 60 ounces of booze, just think about that. That’s equal to about 40 drinks a day. I thought a whole pint and a few beers a days for myself was hard to stop. I can’t even imagine this. You’re strong, great job on making it out alive.
It feels like anger madness and pissed off with the shakes.
The insomnia is the worst
I am a severe recovering alcoholic. Going through withdrawal each time that I did was the biggest uphill battle I could have ever imagined. I would have all of the symptoms, but each detox was slightly different. One unifying factor was that it was always worse than the last. I have been hospitalized over 10 times, one of them waking up from a 3 week long induced coma. Doctors were interviewing all of my family members and close friends asking what drugs I was on because they said the severity of my withdrawal couldn't be explained by just alcohol. However at age 33, I've STILL NEVER done a single drug (Of course, besides alcohol, because it is technically a drug.) I've had two grand mal seizures. I was kicked out of one rehab and completed a second one without a certificate of completion because the staff said that I didn't "truly work the program" (Aka, they didn't think I was ready to quit drinking..... And I wasn't.). Each time I was hospitalized, I had gone of my own will because I wanted help quitting, but I started drinking shortly after being released. Every time I had a BAC over . 3. One time after getting into a fight with my parents, I chugged a shit ton of brandy. Within a half hour I had my boyfriend take me to the hospital because I knew I was in trouble.... My BAC was .495! I don't even understand how that was possible considering I was perfectly functional. I had the perfect life full of success and happiness and derailed it for a few years but now I life a blissful sober life. (And you're right, sober highs are higher!) Point being, it's a revolving door of hell, failure, loneliness and pain. And I didn't even digress on the actual horror of what your body physically experiences during withdrawal. Props to you for getting sober and I enjoyed your video!
I just stopped drinking 3 days ago...had one helluva binge and I'm just coming down slowly but surely...what an awful ride... nightmares...sweats... depression... no appetite. I've lost ton of weight but I'm feeling stronger and Ive decided I'm finally going to get this demon off my back
Good luck!
Did you make it?
Have a family member who was an alcoholic for years. He became infected with 'bacteremia', an alcohol-induced blood infection that literally turned his brain to mush. Gratefully we took him to the hospital where he was properly diagnosed. It took almost 3 months of hospitalization and the insertion in his chest of a PICC before he was reasonably back to normal. He didn't even remember the first 30-45 days of his hospitalization. The doctors told us that had we not brought him to the hospital the infection would have probably done permanent damage to his brain. Alcohol ain't no joke! It's probably the worse of the drugs, long term, in that it attacks every major system in the body.
This video brought tears to my eyes because I needed to hear this, I’ve decided to recently stop drinking after being a “heavy” drinker for 6-7 years, I’m experiencing some of these symptoms and I’m a little scared but I’m determined to continue this and change my life forever!! I went to an AA meeting today and it was the best thing I did in 2022 and I realize so many people struggle or have struggled with this drug. I will continue to pray and be strong and one day I can make a video myself to help someone who’s going to take the path many have taken and the one I’ve started to take!! You guys pray for me and I encourage anyone in the process stop quick this terrible drug/drink also to keep going and we can do this guys🙏🏽💪🏽💪🏽 Love you guys TEAM SOBER# 4 life!!!!
You still sober? I quit drinking a year and almost 2 months ago.
I was a binge drinker for many years. Not everyday, about 3 days per week. I always had trouble finding the stop switch once I got started. I got to realising on the days off alcohol I was actually living with constant withdrawal. Anxiety, insomnia, depression, fatigue. Something had to change. I found the first 3 weeks of sobriety hell. Anxiety through the roof. By week 6 I was feeling much better. It's different for everyone obviously. Hang in there....
I'm almost a week in. I literally have to self talk myself through things. I feel like everyone is watching me, the anxiety is ridiculous worrying about everything .
@@dennisleporte2327 Hi mate. As long as you know this is all part of the course and you will begin to feel better after awhile. It's tough I know.
@@bangkokstevie Thank You. I didn't know alcohol was such a problem for me until I realized it's all I did , you know, you said it you can rationalize anything. Be well
@@dennisleporte2327 Thankyou.
Just do it and quit. Take up a healthy addiction.
Im off alcohol a month now after 33 years of alcohol and tablet abuse
Good luck. Been there. It gets better the more time you havd sober
Which healthy addiction did you choose? I'm not being funny but how did you actually do it?
Well ,when the Germans bombed pearl harbor in 1941,do you think those Canadian solders in pearl harbor were sober???! No way,once they saw the German helicopters circling pearl harbor they drank more. Then they set up a ploy to get the Germans to land in Pearl Harbor,the Canadian soldiers put up a hug blinking neon sign,it said Free beer for all German nazi helicopter pilots. Today only!! That was in June 1941, the fuckn stupid Germans fell for this crock of shut. Once the German landed several thousand helicopters,and a few led Zeppelins, the stage was set.!! The Canadian soldiers ambushed them,they beat the shit out of the German fucks with Molson golden beer bottles. It was crazy,it was intense,it was quite hoppy you might at.. but it was all American. So,think about it when you hear a helicopter,it could be a German nazi, make sure you have BEER.!! AND PROCEED TO DESRYOY THE ENEMY.;)
@@mitchambrose469 hello Scooby Doo
Same here. Take up lifting in the gym. Makes you eat regularly and gets all that pent up energy out
Shout out to all my people trying to recover from this insidious disease. God bless and keep you all.
Im 55 and still struggling, quit for 16 years and went back. Your right on brother. It can mess with you bad. Your brain is not broken. Just needs some healing. Thanks for posting.
chuck guerin Hi was there anything specific that happened after 16 years that triggered you to start drinking? Or was it more like '16 years I've proven ai can handle myself so I should be OK to drink casually again?'
You never go back to stage 1 . More like 4 going on 5. Even after decades .
@@BlackLabelSlushie Not our business unless you have a personal reason for asking. The ONLY truly important thing I took from AA was the rule about no cross talk; meaning respect everyone;s right to speak unless they invite you in == dunno what the rules are here mate. I had 5 years early on when I recognized I crossed that line == creepy boyfriend I met in an AA meeting which accounts for my aversion .... my Dad was slipping away and when I refused to see him he threatened him. I lured him to where I worked in a dangerous part of town because cop cars were circling all day long and like all bullies he ran away. Could happen to anyone but frankly didn't have social life after that and then me and my mum put up the last Xmas tree; I had one drink took 4 months it was worse. t's what happens. I don't think people can drink casually again; I know of one or two famous cases but exceptions don't prove the rule.
evelyn baron ?? This is not AA. I'm asking Chuck a question. I'm not asking you a question.
Use vitamins b3 and magnesium.
The anxiety part can drive you nuts, I didn't know what was going on with me, but it eventually gets better 👍✨
I feel like I'm losing my mind
Withdrawals are the worst just getting over one and could not stop shaking with really bad amxiety
How are you now?
Yes. That's exactly how it was.
Thanks for this!
Coming up on 4 years and I pray that everyone in these comments who is trying to stop is successful.
You are a trooper for saying this. If you really are drinking morning to night like I was, go to a fucking hospital, please. Really do call 911, it starts with music, then voices, then the rest. And listen, you do NOT want to know the rest.
I remember my anxiety being through the roof and being terrified. I couldn’t sit still, couldn’t rest and I wanted to run. What a horrifying experience that I wish to never go through again.
Oh man, I remember being in the hospital and pacing the halls all night long without sitting down once. The fear and panic, yes horrifying. Once my BAL was around .4 and I was getting loads of Ativan and the nurse said "I've never seen anyone on this much Ativan still be awake". It was horrifying. I'm so glad I don't have to go through that again if I don't drink.
@@donnagelina8548 Yea dude, that sounds like misery. Haha, I do not want to feel that shit again. I’d rather get knocked out by Francis Ngannou.
@@markgoodwin5306 Stay sober brother! It's worth it :)
@@donnagelina8548 I guess I was fortunate for not having to fall super deep into it. Those cases are ridiculously depressing.
You literally just told my story.
What a FANTASTIC video.
I can relate so clearly and shockingly. Thanks you brother for sharing this. I’m currently 36 and at my peak usage… and a highly functional alcohol user. But I’m working on it.
Kitty wanted to say no😮
It's been 5 months, are you drinking more now or less?
That's it EXACTLY. I have been about a week sober and I feel like everyone is watching me. Been down the avenue a few times. Thanks for keeping me sober today.
I drank alcohol off and on for 35 years. When I turned 52 years old, I just decided to quit. I was never a daily drinker, more like a weekend drinker. However, the time came to stop. I had no problems stopping. It has now been 8 years since I had a drink. I really don't miss it at all. I feel better and my mind is more clear and now I seldom feel depressed. I prefer living the alcohol-free lifestyle.
Sober now for 2 years. It’s so worth it! Don’t go back no matter what.
I was and am probably still an alcoholic. Thanks, Chris. Here's a fact: regular alcohol use supplants a necessary hormone that regulates the heartbeat. If you take alcohol throughout the day, and try to quit "cold turkey," you very much risk a heart-attack, stroke, or at the least cardial arrhythmia. At the worst: it is the only withdrawal that I am aware of that can cause death. Please all: be careful.
Going through this right now.... Alcohol is a dangerous poison folks.
Been 5 days dry and I’m still feeling heavy withdrawal symptoms.
But if you really want to stop, then you will.
Help yourselves and god will help you.
Thank you man, I have a hard time explaining what it feels like to my people.
If you’re still struggling with withdraw or your trying to quit now I still have a couple Valium from my detox.
@@2needey1 nah. Entering month 4 absolutely dry!
Day and night guys.
I pray for you all to find the strength to overcome the hardships of getting sober.
It is all worth it!
This helped me so much. Thank you. I have been struggling.
Thanks mate. I checked myself in for help yesterday and will begin a 5-day detox program from Monday
That’s why I can’t quit. I get to two days and the nausea and headaches are unbearable. Literally one sip relieves those feelings. I’ll have to check in to a hospital to get monitored.
Bugs under the skin, trembling so hard you can’t use a remote control, closed eye hallucinations that lead to hellscape nightmares, corner eye phantoms (named mine Tom) vomiting, sweating, and the worst bowel movements that seem like they never stop, it’s absolutely terrible, save yourself the problem and never get to that point it sucks, I’ve been there you don’t want it
I had a severe case of the withdrawals for 72 hours. I thought I was literally going insane. I am now 11 days sober, cold turkey. I went 7 months sober before cold turkey and ended up relapsing. I am going to be stronger this time and stay clean! Alcohol is the devil and it will only bring you down! Everyone going through withdrawals watching this, stay strong. You can do it!
Spot on. Day 2. Laying in bed covered in cold sweat. Jolting awake every 10 minutes. Also having weeeird 30 second dreams.
I drank a fifth of whiskey everyday for a year, but haven’t had a fully sober day for 5 years
I had that this past weekend. I don't drink every day or anything but I get these crazy withdraw symptoms after weekend or vacation benders
Oh fuck yeah i get that exact same thing. So jarring.
i know the jolting feeling, randomly feel my leg jerk in the middle of the night
This perfectly explains the horrors of it. I have for a long time been trying to find a way to explain it. I luckily ended up in a hospital on a phenobarbital taper for a week and I am forever grateful to not be battling those withdrawal experiences anymore.
This is excellent and very helpful. My closest friend has experienced withdrawal in exactly the way you describe. Change is always coming, you will either get better or worse. Once you are getting up in the middle of the night to drink to be able to fall asleep, the end of this journey is near.
This video should be mandatory for teenagers.
I had to keep reminding myself that it took me years to get in such bad shape so it was going to take time for my brain, body and soul to heal. For the 1st yr I was in a strange place feeling nearly a high bc I was finding out how life was without alcohol. I didnt even know who I was. First year of sobriety was surreal, scary and wonderful. As I heard it said and found it so true...the worst day sober is better than the best day drunk. 1 day at a time. Minute by minute if need be. The longer Ive been sober the better it gets
Oh, I think that's what they call the "pink cloud".
❤ “the longer I’ve been sober, the better it gets” ❤
4yrs later I am now seeing this and I needed this. Me and my ex went thru this and he passed away. It took me a year to end up in the hospital. I felt so good for awhile but not anymore. This helped me today thank you.
you talking about how to overcome your addiction inspires others to get help so thank you for telling your story! It inspires me.
Thank you for sharing this, to me is a light at the end of the tunnel ,there is hope.🙂
This video calmed me down just enough to finally sleep
That's awesome!
it's amazing how we forget this pain it's unreal and definitely not worth drinking
Going through withdrawal. The shakes and the sweats. I can’t wait to feel better. I can’t even sleep because I close my eyes and see shit.
It’s tough but there is the other side and it’ll be worth it. Just remember the hangovers
How are you doing now?
Yes, Jon. I hope you are doing better. If not, maybe see a doctor.
I was just searching withdrawl on TH-cam just so I could remember what it was like and to keep up with my recovery. You said/did all the things I did. I ramped up my drinking through the years and still maintained my career and family. I googled all sorts of things while going through withdrawl. They all sounded like me and didn't sound like me at the same time. Thanks for this video. It reminds me to keep going. 9mos sober in KC! Much love and thanks again.
Do you guys remember having severe nausea all the time? I think I'm definitely going through an alcohol detox and the nausea is Non-Stop. Also because I work outside and it's summertime I'm cramping up like a b**** does anyone else have that same experience I want to be certain it's alcohol DTs. I don't drink anything heavy, just 8% Malt Liquor it's the frequency that worries me. I've been drinking it nonstop for the last 4 months. prior to that I hadn't missed a day in a year, is that sufficient enough use to warrant a physical addiction?
@@darthnihilus511 Everyone deals with the physical addiction in different ways. You might be having some minor to moderate withdrawl. You really need to stay hydrated and listen to your body. The fact you're working and not in the hospital is a good sign. Just be careful and don't over do it. Tell someone you trust at work that will have your back. That can take you to the ER if you have heart palpitations or tremors or cant keep mild food/liquids down. Just take it slow. And again listen to your body. HYDRATE!! If something comes up that scares you, go to the ER and let them know you're experiencing withdrawl. It can be dangerous without help. Take care xoxo
Thanks for this!! I have an anxiety for years now. O was dependend to alcohol to ease my anxiety and panic attacks. Been drinking for 8 years now. Just realized that its the alcohol thats worsen it. Im on my second day now and withdrawal symptoms sucks! Lets do this. Life is more happier when you are natural and under no influence of anything to fake happiness.
Try niacin and magnesium for anxiety.
How are you now i have the same symptoms like you
Thanks Chris. I was exactly the same. I have 65 days sober now. It’s a struggle but I keep on. Slowly but surely getting to where I’m meant to be.
Thanks man. I really appreciate hearing this. You basically just told my story. I went through the same process and ended up in the same depths. I also managed to crawl out (not on my first attempt) and learned to live a life of recovery. Now I know my happiness lies in remaining out of that dark hole, standing here in the amazing sunlight of sobriety.
all I can say is thank you for this cause I'm struggling w this right now
This is the best example of alcohol withdrawal I've ever seen. Every story is different, yet the same. I felt strange people under my bed and the would come up from behind the bed and fly out the door. I would stare in the mirror talking to the person in the mirror which of course was me, yet it was a different person and room on the other side. 6 and 7 days of no sleep.....on and on. Now I'm going back to withdrawal tomorrow. Trying to have enough alcohol till I get there. The fear is real so I keep drinking to keep them at bay. This comment bought me 8 minutes of freedom from that fear...time to go back...
Thank you. I know I need help. I know I have a drinking problem, but I am terribly embarrassed. I will figure it out.
Years ago I went thru the bottle ache, one week and 4 days I was locked up in my home having full on hallucinatory trips both audible and visual, a fever from hell and shakes that felt like an internal earthquake. I decided I got my drunk self into that mess I will take myself out of it cold turkey. If I died I died, no one would have missed me as I burned so many bridges in my drunk days I may as well have been a pariah.. I am sober now and took my life back in spades!!
Thanks Chris! Your story is very similar to mine. I've had a restart a few times. I now have a new saying for myself every time I get the urge "going to the withdrawals is not worth it anymore"
I've been trying to stop for the past two years. I have severe anxiety and always end up at the liquor store to calm my nerves. It's a vicious cycle.
I'm now trying to taper off.
Thanks for the video!
Wow, your story is so Similar to my own. September will be 3 years not a single drop. The physical aspects of withdrawal were a nightmare but the mental effects and seemingly like I was going insane and seeing and hearing things that were not there was absolutely terrifying. Trying to hide the effects from my spouse was impossible. Luckily having someone that care for me and the hospital nurses an doctor follow my progress was so integral to my pull out of the hole. Even though one nurse said i would be back with the same symptoms shortly, it gave me the resolve to make sure they never saw me again. Thank you for sharing your story.
That was an amazing description of the horrors of withdrawal. I went through it myself but was able to eventually quit alcohol, I’ve been sober for 23 years and can honestly say they’ve been really good years. If you are going through it right now it is important that you understand that all isn’t lost you can definitely climb out of the abyss, ask for help there’s so much available. Good luck x
I felt the need to comment, since I too am a recovering alcoholic. "Been there and done that", as they say. I can tell you with certainty how much your making this video and sharing will be beneficial to others who are struggling Happy New Year and wish you well.
Dale Andrews, R.N.
Lake Charles, LA
I soooo agree
That was the most accurate assessment of alcoholism/withdrawal I’ve heard thus far. 🤝🏾 great analysis! Thanks for sharing & this video is still so relevant 5 years later.
I used to drink Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Usually alone just watching movies and the such, And like any addiction although mostly psychological in my case just wanted more every time. Decided to quit a few weeks back and how I now feel. MAN I can never go back to feeling like that. Insane how much it heightens your stress and anxiety when you think it's actually helping. Only bad effects are the mornings for me. Head feels like a brick and can't get up. But think this is a shock to the system having deep sleep. Easing off in week three and now getting up at 7 every day which I haven't done in my adult life. Stay strong people, it's worth ditching this poison for so many reasons. And if you are a much heavier drinker than me please get some medical support in slowing down first.
How are you now?
I cold turkey it on March 10th 2021..
After abusing alcohol for 6 years ...
I stop drinking because 5 days straight I binge drink cheap liquor and mixing with Patron ..
I had DT s but after a week and a half .. my alcohol withdrawals went away ...
Now working out everyday and walking my dog ...
Thanks to God and my family
I quit alcohol after drinking heavily and daily for a few years, I stopped cold Turkey. After about 25ish days crippling anxiety set in and just won’t let up. I’m 92 days sober today and can’t seem to shake it!
I went through a cycle of bender/cold turkey/ severe withdrawals. Finally found info on tapering with alcohol that worked for me and that kept me propped up and semi-functional for a few years. I eventually ended that cycle with a visit to the doctor and a medical taper on benzodiazepines (in this case librium). A lot of people don't mention this but there is a thing called "kindling". Meaning every time you go through with withdrawals, your next withdrawal phase will be worse until eventually you're in seizure and actual DT territory. My last cold turkey withdrawal, I had auditory hallucinations, some visual hallucinations when it was dark, severe diaphoresis, severe nausea, going from hot to cold constantly, and severe insomnia where I stayed up for 4 days straight with no sleep at all which only exacerbated the auditory hallucinations. If you want to quit drinking heavily just do the research and understand that you might not be able to cold turkey safely. In this case doing a medical detox is the safest option, if you don't have access to medical care for whatever reason then look up how to do an alcohol taper at home. The alcohol taper is extremely hard for some people but if you can make it work it can be the first step in the recovery process or at least a way to stop the bender train for a while.
Woah woah, can you elaborate on “kindling” I’m a week in and last night was a twisted mind warp.I almost called an ambulance but I made it. Are you saying the next time I feel not so great it’s going to be worse. Or are you saying if I drink again and attempted cold turkey (which I’m doing) the detox will be worse. I don’t know if that is coherent. I’m still rattled from last night.
Currently up in the middle of the night with tremors sweating like crazy. I can’t stop shaking, twitching, tossing and turning. I relate to ALOT of what you said. Thanks man
I am too. I’ve been awake since Sunday. No sleep at all. But I’m feeling slightly better.
That was a tough period. I went to rehab twice. Still drinking though but a lot less. How are you now?
Steel is Tempered in Fire. Stay strong everyone 💪
3 days in from my last slip, had so many over a 20 year period. I know it's going to get worse over the next few days and weeks. Watching as many vids as I can to reinforce that if others have made it through the darkness there is no reason why I can't. Thanks for sharing your journey.
You’ve spoken to all your listeners as if we are friends! 💕it is clearly from the heart and soul - thank you for your honesty Sir. Keep going 😉
My awful experience also, it’s like an awakened nightmare 😢
I’m 7 years sober now🙏
Thank you. My brother is beginning his withdrawals and it’s very scary and sad to see him that way. But his family loves him and wants him to conquer this demon of his.
Get Scott’s book Drinking Sucks. Your brother needs supplements to heal his brain. Thoughts and prayers for his success. Family is soooo important to recovery. Don’t expect perfection
It sounds like we were at about the same level. Absolute hell. Sleep was just half awake nightmares for so long. I got what I called "The Yips" where you're kinda jolt and gasp yourself awake whenever you mildly start to fall asleep. Miserable. I honestly thought I was going to die every morning. I wanted to stop soooooo bad. I didn't want to drink at all. I HAD TO. I don't think I could have detoxed on my own. I got lucky and my body started to shut down and I landed a sweet 2 night stay in Intensive Care with about 6 more days in the normal hospital afterward. I've been sober ever since. About 4 years. Anyone reading this that is currently dealing with this, just know, there is still life in you. Seek help one way or another. Detox is terrifying but soo worth it. And when it's over, start some new hobbies. You'll need them. It will suck, but not too long. And once you're feeling better, you'll probably see this incredible version of yourself you've never known before. With tons of miserable life experienve that just adds to your strengths and wisdom. Stress builds character you know... Good luck!
"The Yips" are probably the worst withdrawal symptom I've ever experienced. Literally makes you feel like you're being tortured to stay awake anywhere from 1-5+ nights. I'm surprised that more people haven't come forward with describing this symptom because it is so rough the first few nights.
I used to get the "ughs".
Man , I just severely withdraw’d for the three days and I’m still going through actually but the serious scary stuff I’d over with 🤞🏽 I locked myself in my room with a case of water and basically just completely lost my mind . You basically described to a T . The weird scary dreams while being half awake , felt like someone was crawling around my bed but no one was on the room , seeing the animals that weren’t actually there etc , I was convinced I was “crazy” and would never come back to sanity . I’m still shaking and sweating with bad anxiety but at least seeing and hearing shit is gone . I signed up for rehab I don’t ever want another drop of alcohol to hit my lips . Fuck that poison !
Hope you’re truly free !
a natural high is the ultimate ! Good luck and great info for the masses who need help.
ohdwight a line of the ol nose candy enhances the natural high
@@lendrury2771 Smoke a joint instead or take some psilocybin
I am 71 and semi retired high school teacher. I never used to drink that much beer or wine and sometimes went for years without a drink. But due to a personal loss, I have become a functioning alcoholic for about 5 years. It has been getting increasingly worse. Over the last year friends have been commenting on it and letting me know they were worried about me. And then about a week ago I had a real wake up call. I was riding my bike down the sidewalk and fell over. Crashed flat on my ass. A lady pulled her car over and asked if I was all right. She could tell I was intoxicated. Evidently she reported me to the police and a policeman who I have known for years called me into the station to interview me. I was on my bike so he did not arrest me. But he did give a breath test and told me I was way over the legal limit. I live in a small town where everybody knows everybody. So I'm fairly sure the community will come to know I have a drinking problem. The time has come to deal with this problem. Your vids really help because I know I'm not alone.
I strongly suggest you get his course. It’s cheaper than a month of alcohol and as a teacher you will know it makes sense.
A 72 yr old friend started alcohol after his wife passed, when he was 78 yr old the cops arrested him in his house, disowned everything and put him in senior housing. After selling his house, he was forced to pay everything including his treatment.
I figured I could take all the nausea and the tremors and the other general pain and discomfort of withdrawal when I tried to dry out.... The nightmares, depression and suicidal ideations is what freaked me out. I didn't see it coming. I didn't know that our bodies worked like that. Thanks for posting this.
Thank you for sharing your story.
He is spot on about all of this. Seems like he and I had the exact same experience, both the drinking and withdrawal.
I was drunk every Friday and Saturday for about 12 years. I was a bad binge drinker. But I never drank Monday to Thursday. But I never missed a weekend of wild binge drinking. I guess I'm really lucky I didn't get addicted to alcohol. Or at least I don't think I was because when I decided to quit I just stopped and nothing happened. I guess I just liked to party and binge for a good time rather than addiction. I'm watching videos as I worry about a Friend and not myself. I haven't drank in several years . But now I realize how lucky I am. I just quit drinking when my daughter was born and never had a problem. Maybe it's because I never drank during the week?? I never could do that. My Sunday hangover was bad enough that I didn't want any more until Friday lol. Anyhow I just grew up I guess when kid was born and alcohol and good times just faded away. It's not even something I thought about...i just quit. I'm so lucky
Dude have the same problem, during the week I could never drink or not so much but at Friday or Saturday I did an real binge drinking, 12 years already, Im 28 years old. But I gonna stop this garbage now, reading all this storys is really terrible.
Similar story. I would drink heavy spirits (vodka) like a wild animal on Sat and Sun and when Monday came would stop. But that changed in last year and I started drinking lighter alcohol (beer) on Monday just to get through the work days. Then it would stretch to Tue, Wed, Thu until I physically could not do it (throwing up). I guess my body is pretty strong but the latest withdrawals are insane. I must stop there is no other choice
Binge drinking is drinking nevertheless. I googled this bc like him my tolerance is different in the sense that my body doesn’t warn me but interestingly I’ve had horrible binging moments and after doing it so many years.. it turned into drinking more bc I never quit and since I didn’t have symptoms.. I didn’t worry as much. Well, I’m here to say, that is a total lie we tell ourselves. Too much of anything is bad for you. I’ve felt feelings of disassociation, sadness, feeling almost robotic or not being able to enjoy simple things in life.. it turns everything into a total blah that I don’t want to experience anymore so regardless of whether I get all the classic symptoms.. I choose to be sober, bc I don’t want to feel crazy. Blessings to all those out there trying to fight this demon.. it’s possible and it feels so good to be rid of it!
@@prettydalila the point of my post was to point out despite heavy bing drinking I never became physically ADDICTED to alcohol. Of course binging wasn’t good for me. But I never had to have a drink to stop my hands from shaking or to feel normal. So when I stopped bing drinking I had zero withdrawal or any effect whatsoever. I was very lucky, it could have easily went the other way. My heart hurts for those who did become physically addicted due to binging
@@prettydalila well that’s great. Best wishes to you !
Your perspective on this sounds very familiar! At my worst in withdrawal I also googled all of this stuff and actually concluded to myself that I was psychotic and had schizophrenia. The brain is mighty powerful but 6 months later I'm back to leading a perfectly normal SOBER healthy life. I love every minute of it and in a weird kind of way my 2 weeks of withdrawal hell actually did me a favour, it's made me appreciate every little thing I have and just the thoughts of those DT's, tremors, hallucinations, thoughts of impending doom (I 100% thought I'd taken it too far that time and was begging for just 1 more chance) makes me shudder and I will never go there again.
I have never listened to a better definition of alcohol withdrawal,I’ve gone through all of those things mate,and still do.power to you for putting that out there and much love
Thanks for your insight. I’ve had a rough year due to back problems. As you know, opioids are the
latest epidemic. Alcohol seems to be the devil I know. What to do?
Yes I’ve seen many doctors about my back condition. Let’s just say they’re not that good at alleviating the pain.
The hardest part this past year is re-training myself to slow the F down! It’s harder than you think.
And thanks again for your honesty and candor about this condition.
The hearing voices and seeing thing were the worst for me. At its peak they had to strap me to the bed and give lorazapam. It was so scary because I would have short moments lucidity and have no idea of where I was
Thank God that mine wasn’t severe, but it was moderate. I’d say 1-10 it was a 6. What’s it feel like? It felt like every cell in my body was screaming at me…. aching for alcohol. It felt like a bad case of Covid but twice as bad. Never gonna drink again.
Thank you for posting your story. I'm in the middle of trying to help my older sister with her alcohol abuse. I can't relate to this, I don't know what she's feeling or thinking, at least until I saw your story. Now I get it... She's gone in for detox 3 times but nothing more. No rehab, no program to help her kick it. She just goes right back to the bottle. She keeps talking about the past, our father leaving, our mother dying, all negative thoughts and lots of fear. She keeps repeating how afraid she is and how alone she feels. Her kids are grown and moved out, her husband died and she's all alone. The alcohol has caused her to fall twice, weeks apart causing a shattered ankle and then a shattered wrist, and last night she fell again hitting her face on her desk leaving a nasty black eye. She's a mess! She's now on a medical leave from her 2 jobs which only gives her more time at home to drink vodka 24/7. She lives an hour away but I've been driving out to see her 3x a week to check in. Her lease ended (or she's being evicted, idk which)...She's a master liar and hides the truth about everything, making it even harder to help her when I don't know a damn thing. I found her a new apartment and have been packing her things to move her by the end of the month. All these changes are only making matters worse for her.
The system of help is so screwed up, these places who offer rehab expect her to call everyday to keep herself active on their wait list. She can't even load the dishwasher for God sake, I found an electric hand mixer and a pack of cigarettes she loaded the other day that she put thru a wash cycle. It's shocking to see the crazy shit she's doing. Her stories repeat, she talks to herself out loud, cries on and off all day about missing our mother or her kids. It's non stop depression with vodka bottles hidden in sofa cushions and behind furniture all over her apartment. When I'm not there she's driving to the liquor store drunk to get more booze or she calls Uber eats to bring her more. I want to take her car keys, she can't be driving like that let alone with a busted foot!!
Places I've called for help charge $25k to $35k for a 30 day on site, live in facility for rehab. $1k a day is the worst investment ever, we can't afford that! It's so aggravating. She has medicaid so we have to go with the wait list idea but she struggles to even use her phone. She's just so out of it, everything basic just seems so foreign and overwhelming to her. The bottle and her smokes is all she wants. I'm at a loss with what to do, and the intervention stuff we see on A&E is only for TV. It's not done in reality, at least no place I have found does that. This will kill her if I don't find a place that can take her ASAP.
Try his course but your sister needs to really commit herself to be helped
How is she now?
Your powerlessness and deep concern for your sister is so incredibly sad to hear.
You really opened up and told the real story of yourself. That choice had to be hard. Im not a drinker but both my parents were. I just want to let you know from my eyes your a good man reaching out to help others. God bless you and congratulations.
The bloated stomach is something I suffer from because of drinking too, but everything you said was accurate
Thank you for your honesty and sharing. I’m only three weeks sober and I went to detox for three days. I only had sleeplessness and anxiety and depression. You helped me stay sober today.
So spot on!!! Exactly what I’m going through right now.
Good luck your not alone I'm a week in.
My problem is the same. I’m a functional alcoholic, but it is killing me and has killed my relationships
It took me going to jail and being forced to go through withdrawals to finally quit. I literally thought I was in hell
My son might be going soon. How can he prepare for it beforehand?
Of course its like hell its the devil's poison, most of the bad things in life that happened to me was caused by drink, good luck and god bless 😌
@@sharons11157 He needs to decrease consumption slowly, in preparation. Going through withdrawals in jail is AWFUL, been there a few times. You have to be on your toes a bit when there, withdrawing makes that especially hard.
@@joshwiest1788 Thank you. He said he's going to try and go to detox first, just in case he's put in jail by the judge for his DUI.
Feels like D E A T H . That is what it feels like . Once you lose the routine you lose your life ... prepare yourself to start rebuilding yourself up from scratch - not for everybody , that much I can assure you .
I don’t know if I have another run in me…. Two years sober… thanks to videos like this…. Thank you.
Clear and honest explanations, thank a lot. I am at day 4; my hand shakes are almost gone, felt less anxious than when I was drinking but my sleeping habit gone from bad to worse. I would wake up some time in the early morning and drink more and go to sleep. Now i cant, wide awake at 5am only after a couple of hour sleep 😔
After 32 years of drinking my first ever attempt to quit and not as bad as i thought it would be. I can see the light end of the tunell.
Mirza,here on night two.
@Aries Eagle Stick with it and best of luck. My first week complete. Still having sleep issues but I had that while i was drinking too. 😐
Keep going. Don’t let alcohol fool
You.
I know its been 4yrs, so grateful for your video, thank you for the detailed testimony on what it's really like.
I have the same issue with opiates: websites describe the withdrawals as a bad flu, aching, diarrhea, etc. The reality is truly horrifying, much like alcohol: horrible sensations, memories, experiences coming from inside and out, feeling confused and desperate.
I think having more humane wording on websites describing withdrawals would mean more humane treatment of people in withdrawals, which is a major issue, imho
I agree a thousand percent
I'm trying to get help but I've had 2 hospital detoxes and there saying you've done it again so I can't even get the help, I tried staying sober for 24 hours yesterday and the hallucinations were bad this time, I do AA meetings but it just wants to make cry because you always feel alone in the condition but you realise it's happening everywhere, I'm going to non stop ring my doctor today because I've had seizures many times so I need the meds again but unless I truly address why I drink and ill be honest I can't open about it I'll just start again, everyone who has this disease your are not alone, bless you all x
Im not really a heavy drinker in general other than certain occasions but have felt like this a lot lately after a night of letting loose/blacking out. I think I have had my last drink. Thanks for sharing your video.