December 29, 2023 at 5:30 a.m.

Northwoods Recovery

Resolving to achieve sobriety

By Jeff Frye, Special to the River News

As another Northwoods year approaches its end, one commonly feels compelled to not only conduct an in-depth review but also resolve to somehow make the upcoming year more sustainable and possibly a bit more fulfilling. Coming off some difficult times, maybe dealing with the all-too common problem of a DUI or related family issues, may oblige one to question life’s direction; “Where am I heading? What am I doing wrong?” And perhaps, just perhaps; “Is my drinking or other substance use contributing to my difficulties?” 

When confronting such a question, we tend to first take refuge in denial. But, paraphrasing Sherlock Holmes, when you‘ve eliminated all other explanations, whatever remains, however improbable, will be the answer. Casting blame elsewhere for a situation created solely by oneself is tempting but won’t hold up to any honest scrutiny. And then, as legal problems become family problems become workplace and social problems, the search for solutions inevitably points in a single direction. 

When it becomes clear that substance use is impacting the quality of your life badly enough to see you wishing for change, what steps can be taken to bring change about? In my own case, I was so out of control, so deep in denial for so long, so dependent on booze and dope that only complete abstinence could effectively transform my situation. Decades of drug abuse had rewired my brain, producing an addictive personality; only absolute sobriety could hope to bring me under control. 

But that’s a decision I made for myself. Such challenging problems don’t come with one-size-fits-all solutions, and alternatives to total abstinence may be pursued. A close relative, dealing with the concurrent challenges of a second DUI and impending fatherhood, made a different though very acceptable choice. He’d been raised by an alcoholic father and knew he wanted better for his children so, firmly encouraged by his wife, strictly limited alcohol consumption to one or two beers after work, and only at home. With family support he can make this choice work. 

If your New Year’s resolution is about moderating — or ending — alcohol use, supportive family will be indispensable. Chances are they saw this coming long before you did and will welcome the opportunity to assist with your resolution to make this Northwoods New Year a better one. 

Resolving to achieve sobriety in the coming new year is asking to join with us as we do recover.  

Do you think you may have a problem with alcohol? Alcoholics Anonymous can help. Call our Hotline at 715-360-4637 or visit our website at www.northwoodsaa.org for questions or to find a meeting in your area.


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