Mourning does not have to interfere with us seeking treatment or being successful in our alcohol addiction recovery. In grieving, we can acknowledge that we are moving away from something that was unhealthy, while still acknowledging the emotions and feelings associated with it. It may seem strange to mourn the loss of alcohol, but grieving can actually be a healthy thing. When a family member passes away, we grieve their loss, even if our relationship with them was dysfunctional. When a relationship ends, there is mourning and a feeling of loss, even if that relationship was unhealthy. But knowing what happens when we drink alcohol every day needs to be separated from our sentiments about alcohol. Clinging to the emotional bonds may also be our way of avoiding seeking treatment. Whatever our individual emotional connections are to alcohol, it can be difficult to remove those connections from the negative side effects of chronic alcoholism. Others look to it for comfort and companionship after they experience disappointments in life: the failures, breakups, losses and loneliness. For others, it was always present growing up, something that is comfortable and familiar. For some, it is that perfect complement to the perfect meal, a way to celebrate good times, a way to help relax and unwind, or a social ritual to be had with friends and loved ones. Emotional Connection to Alcoholĭrinking alcohol means different things to different people. Even if we know it is time to say goodbye, it can still be difficult to let go of something that has become a habit for so many years. Some see alcohol as something that’s been there through good times and bad.
Alcohol is often part of our family, culture, holidays and rituals. But emotionally, it is hard to give up drinking. When our health, relationships, work, legal or living status are impacted by alcohol abuse, we need to move on. When alcohol controls our lives more than we do, it is time to say goodbye.