“I was researching the long-term effects of alcohol blackouts and what I found scared me, but not as much as not drinking did. 

I was celebrated for being funny when I was drunk and I thought I’d be called the opposite if I stopped. I knew some people would be gutted if they knew the drunk version of me would no longer come out at parties. 

I feel so sorry for that version of me - I was prioritising other people over myself, always making sure they had a good night at the sacrifice of myself. I was insecure, sad, and had little sense of who I really was for far too long.

I wanted to stop drinking long before I plucked up the courage to do it. I knew one day I was going to give up, I just didn’t know how and when, but as soon as I did, it felt like a massive weight off my shoulders and I just wished I gave up sooner. 

It felt like the start of MY life. I’d finally taken the steering wheel and started moving in the direction I’ve always wanted to go. 

I’m finally looking after my body and my mind and it feels euphoric. I treat myself with the respect I wish I gave years ago. 

“I’m so proud of myself for taking the leap and would encourage anyone to give alcohol-free living a go - it might just be the best thing you’ve ever done.”