When James first asked me if I could be a case study, highlighting what I have recently achieved with the help of Just Straight Talk and WDH, I thought the idea was fantastic. If by writing this I can help others to see the progress I have made, with the possibility that reading this could help someone else reach out for support. I was all for it!
Now, me of a few months ago might not have been so agreeable as I was not in the best position physically and mentally. I have mild learning difficulties and issues with my leg following an accident 20+ years ago; I was isolated and frustrated, was having problems with my neighbour, and was hitting the bottle too much. I didn’t even enjoy drinking, and it was becoming troublesome.
I was linked up to James by Integrated Plus. James worked on a project where he used his lived experience as a former problematic drinker to help others who also struggle in this area. This was my main area of concern, although my anti-social neighbour was bothering me too! I was drinking every single day. On average, 4-6 litres of Southern Comfort a week, as well as a few pints of bitter and a couple of brandy doubles mixed in. I really wanted to cut down and even consider stopping for good.
I appreciate that James took the time to meet me; he put me at ease during the first meeting and even recommended a couple of good self-help books. I was anxious and we met at Asda in Halesowen. We chatted about my circumstances and set a few goals. The most important idea we spoke about was buying and starting a ‘drink diary’. This diary has become extremely important. I record everything in it, including drinking habits, doctor and medical appointments, my mood, and the times that the neighbour is annoying me.
The diary has been the platform for me to organise my life, improve my well-being and reach my goals. It has been good to meet with James to show my achievements as I feel this is holding me accountable. Since I started it, I have had numerous meetings with James (JST), have spoken to Fircroft College about possible training courses, have been speaking with the council regularly about my neighbour and a potential move in the future, I have had blood pressure tests, kidney tests, and completed my benefits forms. I have also been speaking with my doctor regularly about my mental health and have changed my medication and feel in such a better place for it.
I have tried to be more sociable and health-focused over the last couple of months. My drinking is down to approximately two times a week, and the amounts are much less than they used to be. With my newfound energy, I joined a church choir, attended a Platform JST music group, started swimming, and took up karate again. James has really helped me believe in myself. I might not be able to do any of the advanced karate moves like I used to, but by being there and being my best self, I am content and in a good frame of mind.
I don’t want to be someone who is defined by my disabilities and difficulties.
