r/stopdrinking • u/Upstairs_Deer6621 • 2d ago
Suggestions on hours long cravings?
I'm about 3 days in to sobriety again and I wanted some help with something specific. I really only crave alcohol from 3:30pm to 7:00pm and if I can make it through that time I'm usually fine. But I mean, it's a real 3 and a half hour war with my mind. Any suggestions on what to do about this or anyone have this same issue?
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u/313sidney Day 109 2d ago
Ah yes... The witching hour! Mine was 3:00 to 6:00. I used to white knuckle that until it was time for dinner and then scurry off to bed. Distraction is your best friend here. Cleaning, cooking, go for a walk, put a podcast on (loads of great sober/recovery podcasts to listen too). Just try to keep busy as much as you can. It does get easier with time and, soon enough the witching hour eventually gets smaller and easier to brush off. Stay strong!
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u/Upstairs_Deer6621 2d ago
I fail so often, I make up my mind, and then all of the sudden I'm in the car headed to the liquor store. It's like I go into a fugue state. It's like the alcohol has taken the wheel. God. I would do anything to rid myself of this. Thanks for the advice.
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u/AllyMyGrandson 2d ago
There is medication to help with the cravings. They’re only supposed to last 15min. I find it easier to keep busy. Very busy. There is so much to do around the house. Also, I binge watch tv and hang out with my dog. I’ve even considered walking her. She’s not much on taking walks, but I’m going to try.
I’m on Day 18 again, and it gets easier each day. One day at a time. You can get through this. We’re all here to support you♥️ IWNDWYT
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u/FlashgameSC Day 366 2d ago
Oh totally! I needed Naltrexone for the cravings personally. It’s fast-acting and can be taken as-needed. Keeping occupied and asking for medical support was the last piece of the puzzle for me
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u/dogswelcomenopeople Day 496 2d ago
Distraction is the key. Naltrexone can help, but doing something else is key. Good luck and stay strong!
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u/Routine-girl20 2d ago
You need to get busy with something go for a walk go chat with a friend or something
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u/SocietySuch7125 2d ago
I’m just here to say: I completely understand. This happens to me too. Thanks for posting - I also want nothing more to rid the intense cravings that now don’t feel like a choice to drink or not. All I want is for these cravings to lesson and the misery of wanting alcohol beyond measure to leave me.
Something I’ve been trying is hypnosis on YouTube while I sleep. They said doing it at least 30x is necessary but it’s sort of last resort for me and I want to keep doing it until I feel a shift in my mind again. Day 4.
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u/Upstairs_Deer6621 2d ago
praying for you
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u/SocietySuch7125 2d ago
Praying for you too!! You’re in my thoughts. I don’t meet many who feel the same way as I do and it helps not feeling so alone.
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u/Benjiman5000 2d ago
For me... I ate!!!! Like, loads!
Pasta, cheese, cookies.
Pasta was best. It worked for me and its not forever if youre weight concious.
I cycled/ran a lot too.
Weights just made me angry tho so I leave em alone.
Breathing, praying, stretching.
The brutality really does pass.
Hope that helps!
❤️
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u/mrcrockerfairyss 2d ago
Leave the house is my best suggestion but that itch is tough . Try and do errands and stay busy