Fergus – How did we cope with the initial withdrawal from alcohol?Fergus – How did we cope with the initial withdrawal from alcohol?
SoberQ
Fergus Home group - Preston Sunrise, Australia 16 years sober
3:32•30 Oct 2020
Fergus's Journey: Overcoming Alcohol Withdrawal
Episode Overview
- Commit to not picking up the first drink under any circumstance.
- Utilise support from sober friends or AA members.
- Find unconventional methods to curb cravings, like milkshakes.
- Embrace the concept of one day at a time in recovery.
- Recognise that alcohol is not a solution to life's problems.
“"Do not pick up the first drink under any circumstance – whatever it is, it won't help."”
In this episode of SoberQ, Fergus shares his journey of overcoming alcohol addiction and the challenges he faced during the initial withdrawal phase. Fergus, a member of the Preston Sunrise home group in Australia, has been sober for over 16 years. He candidly discusses how he used alcohol to manage emotions and life stressors, eventually realising that his 'solution' had become a significant problem.
The episode is a heartfelt exploration of the struggle to stop drinking and the methods that helped Fergus through those tough early days. One of the pivotal strategies he adopted was the mantra of not picking up the first drink, no matter the circumstance. This simple yet powerful mindset shift was crucial in breaking the cycle of dependency.
Fergus also highlights the importance of having support from sober friends, sharing an anecdote about a late-night call to a fellow AA member that helped him resist the urge to drink. The advice he received – to drink two milkshakes instead – might sound quirky, but it worked for him, illustrating how sometimes unconventional methods can be surprisingly effective. The episode offers a mix of humour and sincerity, making it relatable and engaging for anyone grappling with similar issues.
Whether you're looking for practical tips or just need to hear someone else's story to feel less alone, Fergus's experience might just be what you need to hear. Tune in for an honest conversation about the ups and downs of sobriety and find some comfort in knowing you're not alone.

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