I was very much a binge drinker, with the Sunday afternoon braai with the Mrs, and the kids buzzing about. This usually ended around 7ish, when its a mad rush to feed+bath kids and the 8pm target never worked for us. Usually made it by 9, at which point i would pass out on the couch shortly thereafter. Mrs turned 40 in Jan, and for reflux reasons gave up the cigarette + the wine. I guess she was living in denial until the big 40 came knocking. I'm a year younger and chose to support her and have been pretty much Dry at home in cape town since. i did fall off the wagon once on a 3day business trip in April, but other than that I've remained dry. I did learn on that trip that the mid evening phone calls to the wife when shes sober and i wasn't so much - landed me in hot water, so didnt do that again after day 1. (I couldnt help that the work sessions were getting shorter each day, and the team building started earlier, or at least i chose to participate.)
Anyhoo - for me the positives - have lost some weight, feel healthier, and am a lot more "present" with the kids etc. Have had my eyes opened a few times when my 7 yr old has commented how she thought mom and dad were weird after they had wine or beer. Nothing like a reality check for me through the eyes of her.
So I've basically chosen to refrain from anything since - when i did drink i would go balls to the wall. Not so good with moderation and the sauce.
Going to the pub after work on a Friday isn't as much fun as it used to be, however im good with soda water / coke vs a pint. And i'm good to drive home after as well. And when i get home i dont make a beeline passed the family for my bed.
How do i keep my head OK? Have gotten back into my running, and have realised my recovery after long runs is way better than when i was 10-15yrs younger and getting blotto'd. Do i regret doing all of that? Not at all, but feel pretty good in my current state of being and its going to continue for me. Not sure how long, however i feel pretty good waking up refreshed 99% of the time without feeling like i need a nap
Tried the zero alcohol beers etc, and i simply drink them too fast, so not much point for me. So at braai's i typically stick to lime and soda or just soda. And if it gets too rowdy for me, i choose to leave.