Today, I’m sharing a special episode that I’ve been hesitant to release for a while.
I’m opening up about a personal struggle I faced and a big secret I’ve been hiding. It’s a journey of self-discovery and overcoming an unhealthy habit.
Join me as I talk about my experience and introduce you to a wonderful guest who’s here to share her expertise in breaking the cycle of alcohol and unhealthy coping mechanisms.
My Struggle with Daily Drinking
As the world changed due to the pandemic, so did my coping mechanisms.
I found solace in a daily habit of drinking alcohol. It began innocently, with a small glass of moscato to take the edge off.
However, it quickly escalated, and soon I was hiding miniature bottles of alcohol around the house. The fear of judgment led me to conceal my habit from my husband.
I convinced myself it was for his benefit, but deep down, I knew I was doing too much.
After months of daily drinking, I had an awakening. I realized my habit was unhealthy, and it was time to make a change.
Introducing Colleen Kachmann: A Sober-ish Recovery Coach
Colleen Cashman, a 50-year-old mother who raised seven kids, including a blended family, joins me.
As a sober-ish recovery coach, she helps women break free from the reliance on alcohol to cope with stress. Colleen emphasizes that our culture oversimplifies drinking habits, categorizing them into “normal” and “alcoholic.”
Her mission is to empower women to regain control without surrendering to traditional recovery programs.
Understanding the Influence of Society
Colleen sheds light on the societal role in normalizing alcohol consumption.
Over the years, cultural norms around drinking have evolved, contributing to the blurring of lines between responsible and excessive drinking.
The pandemic brought new challenges, with alcohol companies using social media to normalize drinking at home, making it a common coping mechanism.
Recognizing Signs of Unhealthy Coping
We discuss the signs that indicate someone might be stuck in a cycle of stress and unhealthy coping mechanisms.
Colleen emphasizes that if you’re questioning your habits, it’s a sign that you need to pay attention.
Stress often leads people to seek solace in various substances, and alcohol, being socially acceptable, becomes a readily available option.
The Impact of Alcohol on Mental Health
Colleen delves into the impact of alcohol on mental health.
Beyond the physical consequences, regular alcohol consumption can alter brain chemistry, leading to a cycle of withdrawal symptoms.
She highlights the importance of recognizing the interconnectedness of stress, drinking, and distorted perception of problems.
The Role of Society in Perpetuating the Cycle
We explore how society plays a crucial role in perpetuating the cycle of excessive drinking.
Mixed messages and societal norms contribute to the internal conflict individuals face when they suspect their drinking habits may be problematic.
Colleen shares her experience of hiding her drinking, showcasing the disconnect it creates within oneself.
Breaking the Cycle: Pursuing Happiness
Colleen offers a refreshing perspective on breaking the cycle.
She discourages the traditional approach of identifying as an alcoholic and opting for lifelong sobriety. Instead, she advocates for pursuing happiness as a way to reconnect with oneself.
Colleen believes that aligning with one’s values and higher purpose leads to naturally reducing alcohol consumption.
The Free Masterclass: Change Your Thinking About Drinking
Colleen introduces a free masterclass where she unpacks the real problem and provides practical tools to break free from unhealthy habits.
The masterclass focuses on changing thinking patterns, regulating the nervous system, and fostering a growth mindset.
It aims to inspire hope and excitement for embarking on a journey of positive change.
Breaking free from unhealthy habits is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Colleen’s expertise sheds light on the importance of changing thinking patterns and pursuing happiness to overcome challenges like excessive drinking.
I hope this episode encourages and inspires you to take positive steps towards a healthier, happier life.
LISTEN: APPLE PODCASTS | SPOTIFY | STITCHER
Links Mentioned in This Episode
- Colleen’s Website:https://recoverwithcolleen.com/
- Facebook Page
- Free Change Your Thinking About Drinking Masterclass: https://recoverwithcolleen.com/accelerated-recovery-masterclass/6
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