Yasmin Recovery Coach

Weekends used to fill me with a sense of dread. While most people looked forward to the break from the workweek, I was haunted by the prospect of endless, unstructured time. My weekends revolved around alcohol, often spent alone in a pub, nursing drink after drink, trying to fill the void of loneliness. It was a cycle that felt impossible to break, but I’m here to share how I found my way out and discovered a new way to embrace weekends without alcohol. 

The Cycle of Isolation 

For a long time, weekends were my enemy. Without the structure of work to keep me busy, I felt lost and anxious. When I had no plans or anyone to drink with the pub became my escape, a place where I could dull the loneliness and pretend, even if just for a few hours, that I wasn’t alone. But the truth was, I was drinking alone, surrounded by strangers, and the temporary comfort it provided only deepened my sense of isolation. 

Recognizing the Problem 

The turning point came when I realized that my weekend drinking was not just a habit but a symptom of deeper issues. I was using alcohol to avoid confronting my loneliness and lack of purpose. Acknowledging this was difficult, but it was the first step toward change. I knew I needed to find healthier ways to cope and to rebuild my weekends into something positive and fulfilling. 

Taking the First Steps 

1. Planning Ahead: One of the first changes I made was to plan my weekends in advance. By creating a schedule, I could fill my time with activities that kept me engaged and away from the pub. Simple goals like visiting a new park, checking out a new gallery, or watching a documentary gave me something to look forward to. 

2. Exploring New Hobbies: I started exploring hobbies I had always been interested in but never pursued. Writing and the taking photographs became passions that not only kept me busy but also brought me joy and satisfaction. These activities provided an outlet and a sense of accomplishment that I had been missing. 

3. Staying Physically Active: Physical activity played a significant role in my recovery. I joined a local gym and started attending fitness classes.  

The endorphins from exercise helped improve my mood and energy levels, making it easier to resist the urge to drink. Outdoor activities like long walks also became a regular part of my weekends, giving me a healthy way to spend my time. 

Building a Support System 

Socialising without alcohol was a daunting prospect, but it was essential for my recovery. I searched for sober meet-ups and support groups where I could connect with others who were on a similar journey. These new connections provided a sense of community and understanding that was crucial in my fight against isolation. Hosting gatherings at home, like game nights or movie marathons are great ways to hang out in a safe, alcohol-free environment. 

Embracing Self-Care 

Practicing self-care became integral to my new weekends. Activities like mindfulness meditation, massages, manicures, and taking long baths helped me relax and recharge. Prioritizing sleep and maintaining a healthy diet also played a significant role in my overall well-being. 

Reflecting on the Journey 

Looking back, it’s incredible to see how much my weekends have transformed. What were once days filled with fear and loneliness are now opportunities for growth, joy, and connection. It wasn’t an easy journey, but breaking free from the cycle of alcohol-fuelled isolation was the best decision I ever made. 

Sometimes the fears still creep in, especially living abroad and having to push myself out of my comfort zone and to make new friends or keep busy. I can get quite restless and itchy to being doing something. And being still with no plans isn’t something I find easy to manage. 

But my outlook now is that my weekends are now a time to embrace life, nurture my passions, and build meaningful relationships. 

If you find yourself in a similar situation, know that change is possible. It starts with recognizing the problem, seeking help, and taking small steps toward a healthier, happier life. Weekends no longer scare me, and they don’t have to scare you either.