Question:
Is there an OSSG or other online support groups for post ops that are addicts

I am worried that since surgery, I may be becoming an alcoholic. (there, I said it). I have been drinking almost daily for the past few months and I am worried that I can't stop on my own. It is only about 3 drinks a day but I get a good buzz going. Is there an online support group for postops that find themselves in the same situation as me? I know that I had surgery in order to improve my health and excessive drinking is certainly not helping me. Please no bashing me, I feel guilty enough. I need support right now, not negativity and that is why I am trying to reach out with this first step. Thanks    — skennedy (posted on August 16, 2002)

August 16, 2002
It is possible that you are NOT an alcoholic - it could be that you are trading one obsession for another (food for alcohol), perhaps you have issues and have found that since you can no longer eat to escape, you now drink to escape. Either way, excessive eating or excessive drinking- both can give you a good "buzz" and raise your endorphins to make you feel "good".. For whatever reasons- I think you should start with a good psych & theraphy session. The psych can then refer you to AA, or treat the obsession. Regardless of WLS, AA is probably the best place to go for help.
   — Karen R.

August 16, 2002
I don't know of a specific group that addresses those issues, but the Graduate group addresses many post-op issues, and this one of them I've seen addressed. Although not everyone suffers from this particular problem, (some go into obsessive shopping, money spending, dating), you will find others who are there, or have been there & are successfully pulling out. Grads is for people one or more years out to POST. Anyone can lurk and I highly recommend it. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Graduate-OSSG
   — vitalady

August 16, 2002
I do not have a answer to your question, but I want to commend you for asking for help, and thinking there could be a possible problem. Like everything in life that has to be solved, the 1st step is to acknowledge it. I hope all will go well for you and God Bless You.
   — Jeri P.

August 17, 2002
I agree with the other lady that said something about trading addictions. It is quite common for people to trade addictions from one to another. This is the reason why drug addicts are told to refrain from alcohol. It seems to me that is probably the case for you. I would seriously suggest you seek counseling or join AA or OA. Good Luck and God Bless you.
   — Morna B.

August 17, 2002
I have to put my two cents in here. Being a former member of AA, I would not suggest going that route yet. I would seek out some counseling. Another thing I would/or do when I realize I'm doing something excessively & don't want to anymore, is take a look at where I feel out of control. Am I feeling shame about some conversation or incident? Am I remembering something hurtful? Has something in your life occured or come up that you are subconsiously, or for that matter consiously, that you are running from. Are you afraid of something or someone, or yourself? The list can go on, but essentially, what the heck is really going on?? What is up with your support network? Have you been going to any PostOp support groups in your area? Sometimes its helpful to write. Sometimes its helpful to talk. Sometimes its helpful to scream. All the best to you, know that you really are loved. For you.
   — LionGirl2k