Reclaim You

"I came here sad and alone, feeling that I was squashed underneath the booze and this caused me to be unable to express my feelings in a way that would be understood and heard. I was fed up of the blackouts, the not knowing what happened the night before. The constant feeling of when and where I would get my next drink all consuming. I knew that AA would not help this time as I needed more that just lecturing. I needed someone to understand me, to teach me, and see the real me and drag her out screaming (in the end only crying). I needed to understand what I really felt and what made me happy, but also what made me sad. Dirk has maintained that the only person that knows me is me and that all my feelings, whatever they are are real and should be expressed and not held back as unimportant compared to others feelings. I should be compassionate and understanding of myself. We talked about a support network and how I should reach out to these people that have offered their help (previously I have not wished to burden them with my problems). Also making a “toolbox” – ways to avoid drinking in different situations – even Star Jumps in the Pub. There are other tools to deal with this should I need them. I have written everything down and it helps remind me when I read them of how strong I can be. I have talked, walked and written. Everything seems so much clearer now and I so looking forward to the future. I am excited for the future where relationships with be honest and fulfilling. I look forward to being me again, the gentle, caring, loving and important person that I miss. But most of all I now know the meaning of being alive." - Jenny, U.K