Harry - 402 days

“Self destruction has always been a trauma response for me. In childhood this took the form of physical maiming, whereas in adulthood it manifested in alcohol abuse.

When I was 20, my best friend was murdered and my alcohol misuse reached new heights, completely consuming my life. It ruined relationships, left me in dangerous situations and pushed me to points where I began to think I’d be better off dead.

Today I am 402 days sober.

Today I see the beauty in living. I feel all of those feelings I spent years trying to numb. Today I am happy and fulfilled, with unbreakable bonds with family and friends.

It took time, but I have learned that cutting out isn’t missing out. I go to the parties. I go to the concerts. I go to the raves. I have more confidence sober on the dance floor than I ever did 12 drinks deep.

In the past 402 days, I’ve focused on self-preservation rather than self-destruction.

I savour the early mornings. I’ve embraced exercise. Watching the sun rise and hearing the birds sing is no longer anxiety inducing knowing I’d overdone the bender.

The time I’ve reclaimed from hangovers I now invest into my relationships, as well as volunteer to causes close to my heart.

The list of direct and indirect benefits that sobriety has brought into my life is endless. Conversely, the list of benefits that alcohol brought to my life is non-existent.

If you aren’t sure what your relationship with alcohol is or whether you are able to exercise complete control over your alcohol consumption, take a step back and evaluate.

You will never regret choosing not to have a drink for your own well-being.

There’s every chance you’ll regret having that extra drink in the morning.”