"Going from drinking every day for decades to drinking zero days is super impressive. And it's not surprising that your first year resulted in a more physically able body in addition to all those top-of-the-world feelings-the hangover-free exhilaration of early sobriety is full of incredible, life-altering moments, some of which were always available to us but we never could appreciate."
"Then there's the back-to-earth comedown, which is a stark and unrelenting reminder that this is all one big inside job after all. Let's treat your head seriously, though. I urge you to begin talk therapy if your desire to escape gets to a point where you might hurt yourself or others. Talk to your physician and follow their recommendations, including taking medication if they suggest it. Don't suffer more than necessary."
The person quit drinking after more than 30 years and achieved almost two years of sobriety. The first year brought significant physical improvement and a sense of exhilaration from a hangover-free life. In the second year, emotional difficulties emerged: persistent lack of happiness and a desire for an "escape" despite no desire to drink. The person did not participate in Alcoholics Anonymous or follow the steps. Recommended actions include beginning talk therapy, consulting a physician, and considering medication if suggested. The emotional downturn may represent a common year-two sobriety roadblock requiring active mental-health treatment and new coping strategies.
Read at Slate Magazine
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