Posted by:
rogertheshrubber
(
)
Date: May 29, 2011 10:18AM
as others have said, getting to a therapist, if this is possible.
Short of that, and based on what you said about food and booze being your only friends, I will also suggest looking up AA or OA. AA has meetings at all hours. I don't buy into the 12-step approach myself, but I know several people who use those meetings as a way to connect with other human beings, be heard and not judged. It might be a good place to start, especially because, like I said, they meet at all hours.
I am not calling you an addict, but I think 12 step can be a place to help a man turn around. I went to a few meetings before, and found it very peaceful. I have often observed that men have trouble making connections with their community in the way that women can. Especially in this age, it is easy to feel isolated. And life can be overwhelming.
Take a day this week and insist on doing something you really enjoy, without having it be focused on comfort food or drinking.
Don't underestimate the importance of gaining a real, significant CONNECTION to your world. So that you know where I am coming from, here is my story, in short:
Two years ago my wife walked out with my darling son when I left the church. Letting go of the church was itself painful because I no longer had easy answers. My lifelong best friend (sibling), cut off all contact with me, as did most of the members of my family. 8 months later, I was fired from an extremely lucrative job.
How did I make it? I searched for connections. I went to a good therapist about once a month, tried out various kinds of church meetings, and indulged in an old hobby - singing in the choir. My need to sing led me to the Unitarian church, who accepted me completely and genuinely and didn't require any beliefs. I now have more peace in my life than I ever have, in spite of pain.
In short:
1. Take a break and take care of yourself for a day. Don't waste it feeling guilt or longing. Spend an entire day focused on the present moment, and let go of the fear of being inadequate or alone. You are enough. As soon as you recognize that, everything will go more smoothly.
2. Make CONNECTIONS - that is the essence of the human life. Without it, we are reduced to animals. So, you don't have any sexual partners lined up right now? Bummer! But really, so what? Neither do I! And I am an (arguably attractive) 30 year-old with two degrees from top universities and a solid job. I don't have a mate right now because it is not the right time. Now is my time to be single. There are things I need to do for myself RIGHT NOW to be happy with ME. So I focus on the present moment, and I try to reach outside myself every time I can. And, unlike when I was a bit younger, I try not to make these connections about landing a mate.
I hope some of this helps.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/29/2011 10:24AM by rogertheshrubber.