‘I can now be there for my family. Being needed, wanted and loved is something l never thought l would get.”

My drinking almost killed me. I hated what it was doing to me and my family but I could not stop. How did this happen? I started drinking when l was about 17 and had a lot of good times and this made it really difficult for me to stop as l wanted these good times again. My drinking progressed over the years and eventually l needed drink to get through the day. I tried stopping lots of times. I spoke to my doctor, specialist nurses, counsellors – and even went to AA.  Nothing worked. I always said my family were the most important people in my life but drink took that from me. I was three and a half times over the driving limit at 13:30 in the afternoon. I tried to take my own life because l hated what l was doing to my family and myself. I still could not stop. I had to leave the family home.

Eventually l had to go back to AA because l knew from being at some meetings that something there must work. I had to completely give in and ask for help. The Helpline first. Then meetings. Then sponsor. Then l had to change. It was not easy, but is without doubt the best thing l have ever done.

I can now be there for my family. Being needed, wanted and loved is something l never thought l would get. I have been able to be on the Helpline and to help support others. I have also spoken in schools and prisons. Helping others is how AA works. I used to think “How will l be able to enjoy life without alcohol?” But honestly my life is better now than ever it was. Probably the best thing sobriety has given me is peace of mind.

Jim P
Hamilton Accies Thursday Night Meeting