Alcohol Freedom Blog

Drinking Isn’t Affecting My Job – Or Is It?

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 18:51:08 +0000

There is a common misconception that alcoholics are easily identified based on their appearance, where they live, their job status, or because they look or act “impaired”. When you factor in slipping job performance, and/or increasingly showing up late or calling in sick, it may seem easy to point to someone as having a drinking [...]

Changing Your Life

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Mon, 17 May 2010 16:29:48 +0000

When addicted to alcohol, it seems to rule your life. You are likely basing many of your life decisions around the use of alcohol. Where can I get my next drink? Does anyone know I am drunk? If I get caught, what will happen to my career and family? These [...]

Friends and Family of an Excessive Drinker

Codependent Staff Writer — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 22:25:42 +0000

When people drink excessively, it not only affects their actions and their heath, but it also deeply affects those around them. Friends and family of an excessive drinker or alcoholic often change their lives to protect and/or accommodate what this person does and feels – in effect, “enabling” their loved one’s drinking problem. Have you [...]

Alcohol Screening Test & the Freedom From Alcohol® Alternative

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 15:00:46 +0000

For many, consuming alcoholic beverages in moderation is not a problem. But for others, drinking can lead to problems in their life. Do you think you have a drinking problem, or are on the path to one? If so, there is a simple self evaluation test you can take that can help [...]

The Drinking Diary

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 14:56:52 +0000

Awhile back, I wrote about Coping with the Holidays and gave you some tips to help curb your drinking during this stressful time. How did you do with those tips? Were you able to reduce or eliminate your drinking by getting more sleep and exercise? If you noticed that you drank more than you anticipated, or were [...]

Three Ways to Avoid The Temptation of Alcohol This Holiday Season

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 12:00:28 +0000

In my post last week, I mentioned the challenges of coping with the holidays. I’d like to share some ideas with you that I think will help take you away from bad habits this holiday season: Get plenty of sleep and exercise. Proper rest and being active helps you handle the extra stress of the [...]

Coping With The Holidays – How To Determine If You’re Drinking Too Much

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 16:16:36 +0000

As the holiday season is upon us, there are usually more opportunities or excuses for functioning alcoholics to over-indulge. Informal happy hours with co-corkers are filled with well wishes for most, and pitfalls for the alcoholic. Work sponsored holiday parties and social gatherings are also risky endeavors that could lead to embarrassing [...]

Flying Drunk – How Alcohol Almost Destroyed an Airline Pilot and 93 Other People

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 17:22:47 +0000

If you were searching for proof that your drinking before or during work is not hurting anyone but yourself; the new book Flying Drunk by Joe Balzer is an eye opener to the dangers involved in drinking. As the Flight Engineer on a commercial airline flight, Mr. Balzer, along with the Pilot and Co-Pilot, was [...]

The First Step Is The Most Important, But The 12 Step Program Is Not Right For Everyone

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 17:21:06 +0000

At Freedom From Alcohol®, we encourage anyone that needs help eliminating or controlling their drinking to get the help they need. Whether that is with our proven alternative treatments for alcoholism or a more traditional twelve step approach, we want you to get the treatment that works for you. While there are many twelve step programs [...]

When It Comes to Your Drinking, Think Like a Manager, Not an Alcoholic

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 17:38:43 +0000

As we all have heard, alcoholics are quick to deny that they have a drinking problem and as we’ve discussed in previous posts, functioning alcoholics don’t realize they are in the grasp of alcohol until it is too late. It’s unfortunate because it can mean the destruction of their career, family life, social [...]

I’m a Banker, Stock Broker, Accountant, CEO; Not an Alcoholic!

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 16:37:32 +0000

It takes one to know one. That old expression from our adolescence usually rings true. Experience is a great teacher and is a powerful engine for the human experience. Even small children learn from experience. Whether we are learning a letter or a color, once we know how to identify something we can easily pick [...]

Am I A functioning Alcoholic? Three Clues to Look for Today.

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 18:09:02 +0000

How do you know when you need help? As we covered in previous posts, Alcoholism is a progressive disease that seems to occur unbeknownst to the person with the affliction. The functioning alcoholic does not necessarily realize that their pattern of drinking has become more predictable and that they are slowly increasing their [...]

Astronaut Buzz Aldrin Admits Bout with Alcoholism

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 14:37:18 +0000

Magnificent Desolation is not only the title of Astronaut, Buzz Aldrin’s new book, but a feeling very familiar to those plagued by alcoholism. In his new tome, Buzz Aldrin, a hero to millions and the 2nd man to walk on the moon, reveals the ugly truth about his decline into alcoholism. Mr. Aldrin’s tale [...]

6 Things to Do Today to Reclaim Your Life from Alcohol

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 20:57:48 +0000

Freedom From Alcohol® happens to be more than the name of this site. It is a method and process that we employ to help people do exactly that – break free from alcohol. If you think alcohol is playing a leading role in your life, the most important thing you can do is to listen [...]

Alcohol Dependence – My Life As I Planned It

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 03:37:02 +0000

Ever since I was a young man in college, I dreamt of a life dependent on alcohol. Yes sir, work hard and party hard. Long days in the office with longer happy hours and a few two-martini lunches peppered in were for me. Loss of focus, trembling, night sweats and [...]

Functioning Alcoholic

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 18:41:08 +0000

With the admission of US Representative John Sullivan of Oklahoma and Patrick Kennedy of Rhode Island that they are again facing a battle with alcohol, there has been a new discussion of HFA’s or High Functioning Alcoholics. Most alcoholics are not living on the street but are, to the outside observer, a productive [...]

Alcohol Treatment and the Role of Anti Craving Medications

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Mon, 04 May 2009 15:53:56 +0000

In a previous post about anti-craving medication, we discussed many medications that might be used to help combat alcoholism. Anti-craving medication is a critical tool in the Freedom From Alcohol® Method; however, the program is much more than just a prescription to end your abuse of or dependence on alcohol. Alcoholism is not caused by a [...]

Alcoholism – Progressive, Malignant And Fatal

Staff Writer — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 14:13:48 +0000

As alcoholics, we have experienced the sheer malevolent power of addiction. The disease of alcoholism takes prisoners and when it remains untreated, many will succumb to its destructive capacity. Experts call it a progressive illness since the more one abuses alcohol the worse their overall condition will become. It simply becomes progressively worse for the [...]

The Importance Of Privacy And Discretion For Executive Alcoholism – When Confidential Treatment is Imperative

Staff Writer — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 16:19:01 +0000

Picture this scenario. The CFO of a fortune 500 company is sighted at a business function over-indulging in alcohol to the point where he/she becomes loud and overt in his/her conversations. Other executives take notice of this behavior and make a note to speak to Human Resources about this potential problem with alcohol and the [...]

When Alcohol Used As A Crutch – Problem Drinking Can Worsen

Staff Writer — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 13:13:23 +0000

Why do people in general consume alcohol? Is it because they like the taste of an exotic cocktail, or they want to appear sociable when in the company of others who are drinking? Or maybe they like the way one drink helps them relax just the tiniest bit or they enjoy a fine glass of [...]

When Your Life Becomes Unburdened From Alcohol

Staff Writer — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 18:54:05 +0000

You may have been drinking for years and the cumulative effect of the alcohol and your actions has taken a toll on your health and your general existence. Where do you even start? How do you begin to piece back together a life that was once so hopeful and now bears only a resemblance to what [...]

Living In The Here And Now… …Remembering When

Staff Writer — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:48:46 +0000

As awful as an alcoholic’s life can become during the drinking days, there are times when in recovery an alcoholic will remember when things were pretty good – and this can lead to problems. Remembering when times weren’t so bad when drinking can certainly take you down memory lane – like having a few beers [...]

For Alcoholics, Higher Power Makes A Difference

Staff Writer — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 15:24:19 +0000

“I cried to the Lord and He answered by setting me free” PSALMS 118:5 Alcoholism is such a destabilizing illness that can remove one from their life’s direction in a very short time. Heavy drinking leading to loss of family, livelihood, position in your community and your health can leave you exhausted and morally depleted. With [...]

Why Alcoholics Think They Know Better

Staff Writer — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 17:38:54 +0000

“Yeah but I would rather…” What makes recovery from alcoholism even more difficult than it is already? The stubborn alcoholic who thinks he or she knows better than even the most experienced recovering alcoholic. It is a very real problem that can be a gateway to relapse. They can be given the best advice money can [...]

The Importance Of Privacy And Discretion For Executive Alcoholism -When Confidential Treatment is Imperative

Staff Writer — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 06:26:42 +0000

Encouraging Yourself To Remain Sober

Staff Writer — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:44:56 +0000

When you reach the point in your recovery where you dare step out and once again experience life, you should not forget to give yourself the encouragement you require to continue moving forward. Sometimes early in recovery we are so caught up in avoiding alcohol and that which makes us drink that we forget that [...]

A Three Pronged Attack Against Problem Drinking

Staff Writer — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 15:39:43 +0000

When you are ready, truly prepared in your own mind to stop or reform your drinking behavior there is hope in treatment. Specifically, help is available for treating you physically, psychologically and spiritually. All three play an instrumental role in halting a slide into alcoholism which can be costly both in relationships and financial devastation [...]

Loneliness And Problem Drinking

Staff Writer — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:32:41 +0000

Still Drinking To Be A Part Of The Crowd? Alone time is good occasionally but beware too much time spent alone when feeling depressed over something. Old timers in A.A. tell newbie’s “Don’t let yourself get too tired, too hungry, or too lonely.” For many alcoholics and problem drinkers the feeling of loneliness can be overwhelming. [...]

Dealing With The Mental Obsession To Drink In Recovery

Staff Writer — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 01:44:57 +0000

The Early Days Of Recovery The voice in your head says “wouldn’t it be great to have a beer when it’s so hot outside? You know how much you like the smell and taste of a freshly cracked open beer…”; the voice can be relentless…”you know you usually have a couple drinks of scotch when you [...]

What The Serenity Prayer Means To An Alcoholic

Staff Writer — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 17:30:23 +0000

A Recovery Prayer Analyzed Most alcoholics first hear the serenity prayer at their initial 12-step meeting. As the meeting ends, all gathered stand and hold hands saying aloud the serenity prayer and then raising their clasped hands bellow “keep coming back!” It’s as if they are aware that some may be attending their last meeting so [...]

The Recovering Alcoholic Must Lose Their Ego To Find Serenity – Part III

Staff Writer — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 23:31:05 +0000

How does an alcoholic identify when he or she needs to adjust their way of thinking to be more receptive to a quality recovery? What are the obvious signs of ego and how can they be overcome? Everyone has an ego and some even need it to be successful, it is an integral part of who they [...]

The Recovering Alcoholic Must Lose Their Ego To Find Serenity – Part II

Staff Writer — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 16:06:37 +0000

Bolte-Taylor’s horrifying yet exhilarating experience has convinced her that we all have the ability to access our right brain and the astonishing consciousness that exists and is waiting for us to tap into. We all have energy around us that is dictated by our right brain. We must find a way to make our right [...]

The Recovering Alcoholic Must Lose Their Ego To Find Serenity Part I

Staff Writer — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 23:03:50 +0000

During their recovery one of the most difficult yet necessary things an alcoholic must do is willingly give up their ego. When an alcoholic admits defeat and loses the attitude their ego has nurtured, they will be humbled and become open and willing to change. In order to do this they must capitulate to their [...]

Understanding What Comes First – Recovering Drinkers and Their Priorities

Staff Writer — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 16:09:48 +0000

Once we have made a commitment to others and ourselves that we will do something about our drinking the situation becomes remedial. Nothing else takes priority over staying away from alcohol. It does not matter how badly you were addicted, the fact you chose to stop means you knew you had a problem. To what [...]

Just For Today I will Not Drink

Staff Writer — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 18:42:31 +0000

How many times have you quit drinking? Every alcoholic or problem drinker comes to the point with their drinking when they make a promise to themselves or to someone else that they will not touch another drink. It may be after an embarrassing bender or it could be a heartfelt promise to a loved one. [...]

A Life Strategist Will Get You Back On Track Fast – Too Much Time Has Already Been Wasted

Staff Writer — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 17:50:21 +0000

As you progresses through recovery, life once again begins to take on some normality and routine is a welcome by product of this. As each new day passes, you strive to accomplish as much as possible in any twenty-four hour period. Initially it is exciting rediscovering things with a sober eye and perhaps trying new [...]

Live And Let Live – Coping With People Who Drive Us To Drink

Staff Writer — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 14:47:40 +0000

This is a useful phrase when it pertains to how we deal with the frustration in our lives created by others. Most of us can remember a time, probably many times, when we drank because of someone else “driving us to drink”. Some may even say it was as good an excuse as any for [...]

Dealing With The Stigma Of Being An Alcoholic – The Label Of Alcoholic Shouldn’t Bother You

Staff Writer — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 15:53:12 +0000

Part of the denial process for an alcoholic or problem drinker is wrapping their head around the fact that they may actually be an alcoholic. Up to this point in your life, an alcoholic might be the person you see sleeping off on a park bench with a newspaper blanket. Alcoholics are those people who [...]

Avoiding Alcohol Relapse

Staff Writer — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 16:47:37 +0000

As recovering alcoholics or problem drinkers, relapse is only a drink away. That next drink will not be our last drink and our better judgment tells us this even if we disregard it. When we stop drinking, unless we follow a strict treatment and recovery regimen and remain vigilant, we could easily slip back into our [...]

Ignition Interlock Device Prevents Driving While Intoxicated

Staff Writer — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 15:11:27 +0000

You have to wonder why these devices aren’t on every new automobile passing through car dealerships everywhere. The premise is quite simple and effective. Before a car can be started, one must blow into a breathalyzer type device successfully proving they are not intoxicated before the ignition will unlock. Some may think this is akin to [...]

Breakthroughs On Your Way To Freedom From Alcohol

Staff Writer — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 21:51:11 +0000

Alcohol recovery is a process that takes time, patience, fortitude and perseverance. Each set back will rip just a little more tenacity from your already shallow reservoir of resolve to beat the illness you are tasked with fighting. Little wonder then that small breakthroughs need to be savored and appreciated. Any disease that requires you [...]

Timing Is Everything For A Problem Drinker or Alcoholic

Staff Writer — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 20:47:21 +0000

Problem drinkers and alcoholics all share one particular attribute and it is not something that should make them proud. The more they drink, the less they are in control of their faculties. On the face of it, this may not sound too serious and even sound obvious but a closer look reveals more.The inebriation aside, [...]

The Functional Alcoholic

Staff Writer — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 17:15:11 +0000

As silly as this statement might sounds it definitely can be true. There are those alcoholics who drink but don’t necessarily get drunk. They do not exhibit drunken behavior and actually function adequately in public. They are still at risk for alcohol related illnesses such as heart problems, liver disease or cancers but to look [...]

Codependency And The Problem Drinker

Staff Writer — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:58:57 +0000

Problem drinkers appreciate having a codependent [CD] person allied with them during their drinking spree. This codependent will unwittingly do whatever is necessary to assist the drinker in their pursuit of alcoholism, often at the expense of their own health and well-being. They will in effect, “run interference” for the problem drinker making sure everything [...]

Alcoholism Does Not Recognize The Social Order

Staff Writer — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 16:13:59 +0000

When it comes to alcohol abuse, there are no class divisions. Everyone is equally susceptible to the siren-like pull of its addiction. The drunkard on a bar stool each night drinking beer and shots after a shift cleaning other people’s offices is no different from the CEO of a bank drinking a three-martini lunch when [...]

Edward And Wanda’s Story – A Cry For Help

Staff Writer — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 19:00:40 +0000

Edward had always wanted to enter politics at some stage of his life and now seemed like the timing might just be right. He had been a senior partner at his law firm for 5 years now and his political interests had soared during this time. His family was settled with his two children now [...]

Silencing The Alcoholic Mind

Staff Writer — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 18:15:38 +0000

The alcoholic brain is an active brain. Your mind is always racing with thought, not all of which is pertinent in any way, some significant and some of it plainly bordering on insanity. Even after you quit drinking alcohol, this active mind is a real problem for the recovering alcoholic. It is literally why many [...]

The Heavy Toll Of Alcohol Addiction

Staff Writer — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 17:20:44 +0000

Each year in the United States more than 100,000 people die from drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. To put this into perspective, both the Korean war and the Vietnam war lasted a combined total of 13 years and there were 95,083 service personnel killed in action. Add in the current Iraqi war deaths for American [...]

Doctor’s office last place Alcoholic should go for Diagnosis

Staff Writer — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 19:18:50 +0000

94% of the time they miss the diagnosis of alcoholism If you have decided you’re going to do something about your alcohol problem, talking to your doctor about treatment will probably do some good. As long as you are frank and honest about your drinking problem your primary physician will likely assist you with the help [...]

The Difference Between A Therapist And A Life Strategist

Staff Writer — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 14:35:22 +0000

These days one hears the phrase life coach or life strategist used a fair bit. People from all walks of life tend to need some personal development as they proceed with their life’s journey. Whether it is for their career path, personal improvement and health concerns, they believe a personal coach will help their development. [...]

Alcohol Cessation Medication Must Be Combined With Counseling

Staff Writer — Fri, 30 May 2008 15:31:07 +0000

“Magic Bullet” Requires Commitment and Ongoing Consultative Therapy Breaking an alcoholic or problem drinker’s resistance to treatment is a critical dilemma that many have experienced. Medical experts have developed drugs to treat the symptoms of withdrawal, the cravings that drive so many to drink and the depression that so often is related to alcoholism. The [...]

Time To Clean Your House of ALL Alcohol

Staff Writer — Tue, 27 May 2008 16:31:07 +0000

So you’ve decided to take the pledge. Or maybe you just decided it’s time you started controlling your alcohol consumption better.Congratulations! There are some simple steps to take that will make it easier for you to reach your goal of modified or total abstention from drinking. Your compulsion to drink could become obsessive in the early [...]

The Selfishness And Self Pity of Recovering Alcoholics

Staff Writer — Thu, 22 May 2008 16:22:50 +0000

Alcoholics are renowned for being stubborn people who could use a healthy dose of modesty. Being humble is not on their radar. There is no standard template that defines ALL alcoholics, but they do share many qualities, most of which they’d be advised not to brag about. The most compelling character trait of most alcoholics [...]

Are You Worried About Your Drinking? Start Thinking About How You Would Like Your Life To Be

Staff Writer — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:21:49 +0000

When you drink too much you barely realize that the alcohol you consume is slowly taking over your life. Sure it may feel good to over indulge and feel the high that comes with drinking more than the usual; it takes away the real world for a while and helps you to relax. In the [...]

Alcohol Recovery Depends On Following Your Plan

Staff Writer — Fri, 16 May 2008 16:47:09 +0000

If you were diagnosed with a health problem like high blood pressure and your doctor told you needed to exercise more, eat right, quit smoking and take a particular medication religiously or else you won’t last long, you’d get serious no? Why would treating your excessive drinking be any different? If left untreated, your abusive drinking [...]

8 Ways A Recovering Alcoholic Will Enjoy their Freedom From Alcohol

Staff Writer — Mon, 12 May 2008 19:49:44 +0000

It took me a good six months before I enjoyed my first morning of freedom from alcohol and a feeling of well being that told me the hard part was over. Some take longer and some less time to feel the initial stirring of serenity and peace flow through their bodies. There is a slight feeling [...]

Regaining Lost Trust While In Alcohol Recovery

Staff Writer — Fri, 09 May 2008 19:00:17 +0000

The healing process takes many forms when recovering from alcohol abuse. Some alcoholics need to recover physically before they can start the really important phase of their recovery, which is re-connecting with those people who have been hurt because of their excessive drinking. For many recovering alcoholics they must start ALL forms of emotionally healing [...]

Slipping And Falling, Avoiding The Alcohol Relapse

Staff Writer — Mon, 05 May 2008 22:00:13 +0000

There is no doubt about it; alcohol is a very difficult addiction to control. Statistically 90% of people who receive treatment for alcohol abuse end up relapsing before their 4th sober year is complete. This is an astonishing number and testament to the firm grip this wily threat has on the vulnerable drinker.You can agree [...]

Don’t Let Alcohol Recovery Define You For The Rest Of Your Life

Staff Writer — Fri, 02 May 2008 21:03:16 +0000

During early stage recovery it is particularly difficult to avoid giving in to your craving for alcohol, yet you must persevere. It is critical to focus on your sobriety for that day, hour or even the next minute if that is going to help you from taking that first drink. Your entire being must be [...]

Dealing With The Guilt And Shame Of Alcohol Abuse

Staff Writer — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 17:11:31 +0000

Just so we are clear, there is a difference between guilt and shame when it comes to alcoholics and problem drinkers. Alcoholics will probably always feel more of both since their problems are more acute. Shame is the inclination to feel badly about oneself after a particular event. Shame can lead to more drinking as [...]

Personality Flaws While Drinking Offer Hope in Recovery

Staff Writer — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 18:03:38 +0000

There are some obvious character flaws in alcoholics which aren’t constructive in the least. One of these is self pity, ie., always blaming something or someone for where you are presently in your dismal life etc. Immaturity is another personality flaw which isn’t useful as a recovery tool. An alcoholic’s behavior for the most [...]

The Dangers of That First Drink When You Are Finally Sober

Staff Writer — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 21:04:29 +0000

A guy walks into a bar and the bartender asks him “what’ll it be Bub?” The guy says “I’ll have a glass of milk” The bartender laughs and says “Milk!? Why not drink something that’ll put hair on your chest?” the guy says “I can’t, I’m allergic to alcohol.” “Allergic!” says the bartender “Yes” the [...]

Why Do Problem Drinkers And Alcoholics Do This To Themselves!?

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:01:56 +0000

According to various studies from different countries, on average, 1 in 5 people are said to have some degree of a drinking problem. The accuracy of this statistic aside, even half that number would be a surprise. People in the early stages of a drinking problem are more likely to stop or control their drinking [...]

What True Freedom from Alcohol Really Feels Like

Staff Writer — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 15:12:14 +0000

When someone drinks excessively and they know it, they are under physiological threat because of the damage alcohol can cause to ones health. Also the nature of drinking too much requires you to make sure you always have sufficient alcohol on hand to feed your addiction. Throw in a mix of family obligations, employment or [...]

Drinking On The Job? – Get Help Now!

Staff Writer — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 17:26:45 +0000

You know your alcohol intake is getting out of control because you are drinking more in the evenings and you look forward to every opportunity you have to consume alcohol. You used to cut loose on the weekends but now it’s getting to be every day. Booze is starting to become very important in your [...]

Alcohol Cravings Medication – Prescription vs. Over the Counter

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 19:01:43 +0000

There are now a number of options for people who want to cut back on their drinking or quit alcohol altogether. New prescription drugs are available that will curb your alcohol cravings. These drugs need to be prescribed by a professional and only after an assessment is made of your condition. Anti-Craving Medications used today or [...]

Is Moderation Possible If You Have A Drinking Problem?

Staff Writer — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 22:33:03 +0000

If you suspect you have a drinking problem, chances are you may be falling into harmful drinking patterns. Recognizing these patterns early may mean the difference between returning to social drinking or eventually having no choice but to abstain altogether. Uncontrolled drinking will overtake you when you are not aware of the harmful effects alcohol [...]

Is Alcohol Taking More From Your Life Than You Want?

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 17:23:30 +0000

Is your drinking behavior scaring you? Do you fear the harmful effects that your excessive drinking may be causing you? Maybe you’re afraid you are missing out on things in life that you shouldn’t be because of your apparent problem with alcohol. If you would rather stay home and drink than go out to socialize, [...]

Recovery Should Include Consultative Life Coaching

Staff Writer — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 22:21:54 +0000

You are at the point in your treatment when you are starting to feel better. You no longer have an uncontrolled compulsion to drink alcohol and you are doing pretty well physically. You have an appetite again and you can think more clearly than you have in years. You can actually smile again. By golly, [...]

Encouraging the Problem Drinker to Get Help

Staff Writer — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 20:12:12 +0000

There are many schools of thought about whether an excessive drinker or an alcoholic can actually be encouraged to get help, or if they must hit their bottom first. Certainly it isn’t easy dealing with the belligerent or denial-prone drinker to get some aid, but there are some things you can do to help the [...]

These 3 Problem Drinkers Eventually Got Help

Staff Writer — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 20:32:16 +0000

What Will Motivate You? David P. David P. was an insurance salesman and financial planner and hating every minute of it. He was successful enough but was also bored. He began drinking in college and back then it was almost a sport. When he wasn’t in classes he was partying with friends. He eventually left school, [...]

Does Quitting Alcohol Mean The Fun Is Over?

Staff Writer — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 19:05:27 +0000

I remember asking myself this question almost every day when I was in the primary stages of my final recovery from drinking. I simply could not smile anymore; people I was now depending on were walking around me on egg shells. Getting sober wasn’t supposed to suck the life blood out of me. I had [...]

Alcohol Withdrawal – Don’t Try This At Home

Staff Writer — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 16:21:25 +0000

When a problem drinker begins to realize they may be depending on alcohol as more of a crutch than refreshment, they tend to begin questioning whether they actually need alcohol – can they take it or leave it? Most will deny they have a problem and continue drinking but exercise more control over it. This [...]

Anxiety While Drinking – Your Road to Rock Bottom

Staff Writer — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:12:29 +0000

The experts believe that stress can contribute to someone drinking excessively and this is certainly a factor. What I would like to enlighten you with is how stressful it is to maintain a life of abusive drinking while trying to appear absolutely normal. I have compiled a list of the stressful situations the problem drinker [...]

Dan’s Drinking Story

Staff Writer — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 15:35:28 +0000

Dan was a successful real estate entrepreneur and business Broker. He was married to a wonderful woman who helped him attain the level of achievement he now enjoyed. Dan also had a son who looked up to him and was by all accounts going to be a very good athlete and could look forward to [...]

Hiding Your Alcohol? – Your Plunge is Beginning

Staff Writer — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 04:12:03 +0000

If you are a problem drinker now, more than likely the near future will find you starting to hide your bottles of alcohol. There are probably many reasons why excessive drinkers do this, but one of the main reasons is likely to be “escape”. If you are still denying you have a problem in the [...]

Attending Your First Sober Social Function

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 18:10:42 +0000

Perhaps you started drinking alcohol at your senior prom and never looked back. You were nervous, there was quite a bit going on at the time and your anxiety was running very high. You were offered a drink to liven things up and one drink turned into another; soon you were doing the moon walk [...]

Recognize The Insanity of Alcoholic Behavior

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 19:21:31 +0000

Many recovering alcoholics will talk about the insanity of alcoholic behavior in their lives before they stopped drinking. Some of it appears outrageous and some is just plain sad. These stories are told behind closed doors with other alcoholics who can identify with the behavior. It assists with the overall healing process of the group. When [...]

Alcohol in Moderation or Complete Cessation – You Decide.

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 16:26:04 +0000

Once you come to the realization that you have a problem with alcohol the first thing most people think of is “I need to somehow stop drinking alcohol now!” This may well be true but what about the alternatives that are available? Getting your life back from alcohol may not be as final as you [...]

Signs You May Have A Drinking Problem

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 15:19:45 +0000

I'm sure there are hundreds of studies, medical research and university research papers on the subject of the warning signs of alcoholism. If not there should be, however what I have outlined here are real life cautions. So many people are out there right now with drinking problems it's unbelievable. As a recovering alcoholic who chose to totally abstain from drinking I see them all the time. Oh, I know what you're thinking, because I was a drunk who now doesn't partake in the devils elixir I'm ultra sensitive and think every social drinker out there has a problem. You might be right except I'm now just an observer concerning myself directly only with people who I know personally that ask for my help.

What 13 Years Of Sobriety Has Taught Me By An Anonymous Recovering Alcoholic

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 19:28:11 +0000

I just celebrated and toasted my thirteenth year of sobriety and I did it with ice tea! There was a time when any celebration would have meant a few glasses of 12 year old scotch but not anymore! The feeling of gratefulness because of my freedom from alcohol is as powerful 13 years later as it was 4,748 days ago!

Alcohol In Your Twenties – Carefree, Adventurous And Life Threatening

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 16:16:46 +0000

Drinking at an early age may all seem pretty harmless until you find that there are some in your clique that seem to over do it. They tend to get into trouble or make bad choices while drinking. There are many teens that could be classified as alcoholics and should not drink because of certain predispositions to alcohol. Most kids simply grow up and start controlling their alcohol intake and focus on school, jobs or dating etc.

Choosing the Right Alcohol Cessation Therapy for You

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 19:20:35 +0000

Any form of recovery from alcohol abuse and excessive drinking is a great method if it works for the recipient. However not all forms of treatment are created equal and that’s an important consideration for someone who is in the acute phase of withdrawing from Alcohol.

A Tale Of Two Drinkers

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 15:00:45 +0000

Blatantly pinching a famous opening line, it was the best of times and the worst of times for Brenda and Liz. This sentence brilliantly describes the lives of these two women who shared a problem. These women could not be any more different and probably would ignore each other if they met by accident on [...]

Carol’s Drinking Story – Part 2

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 21:20:40 +0000

As unconventional as it was, having an intervention for Carol even though she was 30 days sober seemed like the right thing to do. It was obvious to her family she wasn't taking rehab seriously, at least not doing it for her. Each previous stint in rehab ended with her reacting poorly to her stressors and succumbing to her addiction, leaving her young family and crashing with her siblings.

How Much Money Do You Drink Away On Your Alcohol Habit?

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 17:02:00 +0000

It helps to have deep pockets if you intend to have a long drinking addiction. One possible cure for excessive drinking is to get out your calculator and do some basic math. When you think about it, paying for your fix of alcohol is not any different than buying dope in an alley except that [...]

Women and the Effects of Excessive Drinking

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 16:44:46 +0000

It's clear that although alcoholism is a universal problem between the genders, women in particular seem to pay a higher price for their alcoholism.

Mourning the Loss of Alcohol in Your Life

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 17:55:53 +0000

I had been alcohol free for 3 ½ months and was attending regular A.A. meetings. I was doing all the right things to further my recovery but was feeling empty. I was literally without happiness in my life and wondered if I would ever smile again. Sure I had physical problems that were slowing my feeling of well being but this was different. I was an emotional wreck…

DENIAL – And The Problem Drinker

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 18:36:59 +0000

No one wants to admit they have a problem, especially when it could be one with alcohol. Heavy drinking, problem drinking call it what you will, when someone is accused of drinking too much it carries a stigma nobody wants to be attached to. So when accused of being an alcoholic or a problem drinker the first thing the accused does is deny they have a problem. Withdrawing, silence, defiance, rationalizing is big, changing the subject and even joking about it are some common reactions associated with denial.

Carol’s Drinking Story – Part 1

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 15:36:38 +0000

Carol was a normal 47 year old woman with a husband, two pre teen kids, a home and job she enjoyed. She was living what by all appearances was a normal life. To everyone but those closest to her she seemed to have an enviable lifestyle. However Carol had a destructive secret that was slowly killing her and destroying everything she had. Carol had developed into a full blown alcoholic.

Who Will You Finally Listen Too To Get Help?

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 16:16:45 +0000

Every alcoholic or problem drinker will have to pay the piper sooner or later. You simply can't continue on a path of intense drinking without someone or something intervening that will have a dramatic and life altering influence on your life. Unfortunately because of the alcoholics self centered behavior they tend to learn the hard way that their life will be changing.

Alcoholic Induced Blackouts – A Defective Consciousness

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:38:18 +0000

Drink Alcohol long enough and hard enough and you start experiencing some ill effects to the drinking that you may have only heard about. Blackouts are like that. They happen without warning from consuming too much alcohol and BANG! Next thing you know you are wondering where you are and what you've been up to since your last waking thought.

Recovering Alcoholic Regrets Lost Time

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:51:43 +0000

Now that I've stopped drinking for a number of years and am recovering well from years of alcohol abuse, I can't help having some regrets. Oh sure, it's standard for those you trust enough to talk to about these things to say you should just move forward, get on with your life and enjoy what you have now. See, that would be wonderful except for the fact I'm human and I still have some memory.

Interventions -Saving A Life That May Not Want To Be Saved

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 16:49:33 +0000

When it comes to alcohol addiction some people can save themselves and seek the treatment necessary to live a great life of recovery. Other people are able to control their drinking on their own and continue to function normally in their daily lives like problem drinking was never a question. These are the lucky ones. There [...]

Andrew’s Story – Was it Just Heavy Drinking or Passive Suicide? (Part II)

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 02:35:23 +0000

Andrew was an active youth and exercised hard until his mid twenties. He comfortably weighed a very fit 180 pounds for much of his adult life until he started his own business. Longer hours and stress filled days consumed him and he barely had time to sleep let alone exercise anymore. So when Andrew started [...]

Andrew’s Story: Was it Just Heavy Drinking or Passive Suicide? (Part I)

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Wed, 05 Sep 2007 02:27:50 +0000

Andrew was drinking without caution now since he lost his job. He really didn’t care who saw the booze delivery car pull into his driveway while his wife was working. All he cared about was having enough scotch to make it through the holiday weekend. There would be commitments and scheduled events that he would [...]

What Will It Take To Make You Stop Drinking?

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 16:44:41 +0000

Why do some people have such a hard time asking for help? When they are in trouble whether it be emotional, physical or even financial they seem to fight to try and hang on as long as possible. These folks that are willing to go down with the ship rather than ask for help are [...]

Excessive Drinking Is Ruining Your Life. What Now?

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 18:47:22 +0000

You’ve had an epiphany of sorts. You have crossed the line in your own mind that separates the social drinker from the drunk. You needed a drink last night and one more turned into 3 more strong and deep. You rationalized that it would take the edge off, help you get through the night and you [...]

Friends and Family Need Strength, Courage and Wisdom

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 00:17:15 +0000

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference. This Serenity prayer is repeated in church basements and meeting rooms all over the world at A.A. meetings and indeed gives an alcoholic the inner strength to carry on [...]

How Many Times Have You Quit Drinking?

Michael Pearlman, M.D. — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 18:24:22 +0000

Most excessive drinkers at one time or another try and stop or curtail their drinking on their own. Good luck with that! Once a drinking problem is suspected or recognized by an alcoholic they may be able to stop drinking for a period of days, weeks or even months. Eventually though, the trigger for your [...]