So for those unfamiliar with the acronym, fear of missing out. I definitely used alcohol as a crutch for socialisation (autism, and when I drink, I don’t feel so autistic). I have been out to a pub / karoake night and successfully not drunk alcohol, twice so far.
When I think about the future and the idea of ‘never drinking alcohol again’ it makes me feel a little sad. I imagine all the fun nights out I used to have, that I won’t have anymore… I imagine sitting around sighing, twiddling my thumbs while everyone has raucous fun.
I don’t feel like these are unreasonable worries, so hoping for some insights to puncture them. My main weapon to fight back is to imagine how I feel the morning after (nauseous, pounding head, sweating) and how that day is wasted; then to remind myself that drinking kicks me into a manic phase, with inevitable week+ of depression to follow.
I used to know a guy called Brian, friend of the family… he was always the life and soul of every party despite being teetotal. Always admired him, maybe that should be my mantra… “WWBD?”
I totally get you and it’s very common to have these feelings. Over time I guess it will be easier and you will build up fun experiences that don’t involve alcohol. So I guess it will get better over time. Don’t worry too much about it never happening again, just take it one day at a time.
I’m 5 years sober now and I still sometimes miss it. But I have other things I enjoy and give fulfillment. And, I really don’t miss all the negative parts of drinking like doing stuff you regret, not being able to drive home, the two day hangovers (hangovers get worse the older you get) etc etc
So I think you just have to give it more time.
Hope this helps!
“Just take it one day at a time” is excellent advice. Thanks!