Isolation?

[RvW]

Does anyone know about "isolation"
or "self isolation"

Is this like a sickness or something? What are the signs, and what are the effects?

Im praying for more self confidence in crowds and among people though I really dont have a reason to feel the way I do sometimes, I interact very well with people on both a social and professional level, but sometimes I have a real fear or even a nauseous feeling when I am in a crowd of people, or even just preparing to be around anyone at all...its rare, but its very uncomfortable.

Theres a crowd at my house now, and though I know some of the people, and have interacted very comfortably with them in the past, I almost feel ill that they are all here, sort of like an intrusion that makes me uncomfortable and fearful.

Could this be a result of sobriety? Ive not drank for a while, and I cant remember a time when I was among people like tonight and not had a beer or two or a drink.

Dano, if you come in here and read this, I guess it might be something to condsider while your keeping your demons at bay too. I wish you all the luck, its not as easy as Ive made it sound going cold turkey, and tonight is certainly one of those "times" that I am strugling with. Im sitting alone in a different portion of the house thinking it would be so very simple to go downstairs, pop a brewsky and party. But I know in my heart I cant, just not sure why, or what to do about isolating myself to feel better.

[ 08-15-2003, 09:14 PM: Message edited by: Row Vs. Wade ]

[Fshklr]

R vs W,
Yes your feelings are normal. If its the drink your missing try getting a glass of ice water and join in as usual without the spirits. I found that conquering the fear was worse than conquering the drink. 18 mos and happy for it. Isolation can be good in moderation but it also can leave you alone with your thoughts.
Remember the word HALT
H hungry
A angry
L lonely
T tired

These are things that can keep the mind and body week and lead back to a path of non sobriety.(from the 12 steps)

So ..Eat well and nutritional, Try to reduce stress if any, keep family, friends near and involved and don't forget to leave time for rest and relaxation.
Hope this was something you can use. :smile:

[RvW]

Thanks for the tip killer. I will certainly have to remember the "HALT" concept...it makes perfect sense.

I dont think I am having any sort of physical trouble without alcohol. But I really miss the rich flavor and carbs/calories from the microbrews I used to drink, not to mention I feel like the "odd man out" if Im not sipping a pint of nice amber ale, oohing and awwing along with everyone else at how good it tastes.

Last time I had a beer was with Willierower about a month or so ago. I may not be taking the whole "quitting" thing seriously enough but maybe its time to keep track of exactly how long its been because it is certainly an aspect that will soon become more valuable than all the good times Ive had when drinking.

I cant say that "every time I drink, something bad happens" because thats simply far from the truth. But it struck me once that 99.9% of the time something bad DOES happen, sure enough, there was a beer in my hand.

I sure wish there was a decent non-alcohol brew out there. But I guess this is like asking OPEC to build a superior battery operated car.

Thanks again.

[ 08-17-2003, 03:24 PM: Message edited by: Row Vs. Wade ]

[feisty's wife]

Good luck to you, Ive been down that road, real far. If you do not have the first one, you will not have to worry about the second one.