It would appear that we are in a similar boat at this point . I manage to collect a year here, 6 months there in the sobriety realm, though I can always count on my usual fuck up... Currently on drinking every other day but no more than 3 without, given my past withdrawal issues. I suppose first you should maybe analyze the amount you are drinking based on your height/weight/gender because that can significantly effect what type of withdrawal you are subject to. Some people get nauseated, some get the shits and shakes.. In my case as a 120lb woman drinking roughly a liter of vodka a night for years,.. 72 hours without sent me into DTs, extreme hallucinations and a massive alcoholic seizure, so while distractions are well and good-- I'm not really a fan of the cold turkey method. It can be very dangerous. I know the last time I had already reduced my consumption and was able to go to a Dr. and get a prescription for Librium, which also aids in withdrawal if you are not at risk for the severe type. I guess if I had any real advice, it would be to actively work to reduce your amount of drinks.. it doesn't have to be massive.. If you normally drink 10 drinks, have 8, then 6 the next time, and so forth. If you have insurance, perhaps go to the Dr, just to see if you can get a prescription or what their analysis is based on your drinking history... Last bit of advice of the unwanted variety...Don't bother hiding it. You're hiding the bottle but not the effects of it. I've found if anything, the secrecy frustrates loved ones even further and worse, if you ever did have an emergency, no one would have any idea as to why (been there done that). Regardless, it is helpful to get and maintain a support system outside of regular family and friends whether that be AA or some sort of outside release that has no real connection to your ordinary personal relationships.
