10 THINGS THAT HAPPENED WHEN I STOPPED DRINKING ALCOHOL

[@MadeleineOlivia]

BIG THUMBS UP to me for spilling wine all over my floor to get that thumbnail!

[@yarostad]

I love how you do it it's so artistic and charming

[@sregan5415]

Where did you get your dress from? It is AMAZING and you look awesome XD

[@marcoc.s.2372]

if it was good wine it was a crime. if it was english, then it is ok.

[@Qwazier3]

I didn't quit drinking till I turned 50. I drank all week and emptied vodka bottles on the weekends. Sadly lots of damage was done to my health before I figured out the consequences. I've been fighting to get my health and my life back ever since. Having grandkids woke me up. I want to see them grow up and I want great grandkids and great great great great grandkids. You've just bought yourself time and a healthier body. Good on you.

[@emmae9924]

Marco C. S. England doesn't make wine

[@alexanderyoung8961]

waking up sober feels better than waking up after drinking

[@andyjohnson4496]

yes but going to bed drunk is easier then going to bed sober

[@Bogeyman19DidNotScareMyAss]

Andy Johnson dead end mindset

[@meganxo3472]

Alexander Young of course 👏🏻

[@ivanthelion2829]

True everytime i see alcohol do you wanna wake up tomoorow good or feel like shit😬💀prayers for everyone battling this daily🙏🙏🙏

[@tiff826]

I never had a hangover unless it was New year's

[@virginiaocana9571]

I gave up alcohol two months ago after years of binge drinking. nobody understands it and actually many people stopped taliking to me. I take it as a detox not only from alcohol but also from toxic people. thank you for sharing, I ve never felt better :-)

[@conorm2524]

It's amazing how 99.9% of your friends will not accept you quitting drinking and will actively encourage you to drink again. It really does feel like the crabs-in-a-bucket analogy.

[@a.flowers8737]

Be strong brave warrior! I've been free for 7 years now and guess what, I have a new social circle that is positive, supportive, and successful. Shocker to me, all those "friends" avoid me like the plague which is a good thing as all I was to them was an ATM that bought drinks. Sad really. Happy now - right over the moon. New life with new friends - completely upbeat and positive. Be well and don't look back....you deserve everything you're willing to work for!

[@katysmith1641]

hi everyone ,if anyone else wants to uncover how to quit drinking alcohol tips try HootSober.xyz Ive heard some extraordinary things about it and my colleague got amazing results with it.

[@lendrury2771]

Virginia Ocana celebrate go slam down some Johnny Walker black

[@RTSBone]

What makes you think you’re not toxic?

[@rbagel55]

I am 52. I quit drinking 17 years ago when I was 35, and I don't miss the crap 1 bit.. I was like you Madeleine. I was a binge drirnker. The hangovers were getting worse, my performance at my job was suffering, I was feeling like shit all the time, stomach problems. Then I got a DWI, then another. I couldn't afford liability insurance for my car. So I had to stop driving for a year or so. That is when I decided to put it down andnot go back to it.. Glad I did. Drinking sucks, enough said. Greetings from San Antonio TX USA

[@theGoldengirls383]

rbagel55 proud of you 👍🏿

[@TheHorsebox2]

You're so right. Alcohol is pure crap.

[@HausOfAdonis]

rbagel55 I have the same problem. I’m 34 though. I know I should stop drinking.

[@meganxo3472]

Well done

[@meganxo3472]

Alcohol is the devil I’ve seen the godam light

[@jerryscary3098]

I quit drinking 7 months ago and I feel like I'm free. like I'm out of jail. hard to explain but it feels great!

[@digitalneko7975]

Proud of you! I'm still struggling. I'll be free soon :)

[@jerryscary3098]

Digital Neko thank you. my tips for helping me get to almost 10 months and counting. 1. learn about parasites, and how it's not really you needing the drug. 2. treat your body as a sacred thing....since your health is essentially EVERYTHING. 3. stay away from situations where you feel pressured to drink. 4. remember alcohol is a carcinogen. 5. most important.....find a hobby that you LOVE and become obsessed with.....just like you were obsessed with the booze. all that time you spent drinking will have to be used on something. good luck. just don't make it a bigger deal than it is. it should be a new lifestyle....not just a temporary thing.

[@digitalneko7975]

Thank you Jerry! Why I didn't know alcohol is carcinogen? Just looked it up. Cancer related, just no point in drinking. I have many hobbies, photography, I play the guitar and I love it, my blog site, I workout 5 days a week. I'm vegan. I care about our planet and just trying to make an excuse, maybe that is why I drink so much. Animal sufferings. Mean, rude peoples. My workplace is so full of anger, etc. I now started to meditate. From tomorrow 6/20/17, no more alcohol. I have never made to a even a month. You are way ahead of me. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reaching out to me, to help me. I really appreciate it! I am thankful Jerry.

[@jerryscary3098]

Digital Neko Sounds like you have way too many things to offer the world to not be sober, and productive. vegan here too. I eat a few eggs from time to time.....

[@digitalneko7975]

Awesome you Jerry!! ::))

[@IronicTonic8]

I quit about 4 months ago and I feel great, lost 10 lbs. No plans to ever drink again, I don't miss it. Stay strong.

[@lancelovecraft5913]

I had been drinking since I was 13. By the time I was 17 you could consider me a teenage alcoholic. I could do more shots, down more beers, and hold more liquor than your average university frat dude. Needless to say I was the life of the party. When I turned 21 suddenly quit drinking. Maybe its because I had lost all my friends or maybe I had self pity, but alcohol had lost its thrill to me. I enrolled myself back in school and became vegan after taking my first uni biology class. I am now about to graduate with a double major in maths and physics. I intend on going to graduate school in the fall

[@daughteroftheking2200]

Lance Lovecraft ,,, SOOOOO Proud of you!

[@digitalneko7975]

Quitting alcohol is one thing but going vegan, yay!!! Be proud! Congrats to you!

[@Parapon3ra]

Sounds boring af tbh.

[@daughteroftheking2200]

Parapon3ra ,, what sounds boring?

[@Parapon3ra]

This guy's life.

[@SherrillCuCu]

Has anyone experienced panic attacks the day or night after drinking too much?

[@carrieoff]

Sherrill CuCu yes, and the older you get the worse they become!

[@SherrillCuCu]

Why does this happen? And only to some people? Never had that problem when I was younger. Just had a good old fashioned hangover lol. And most people my age don't get panic attacks after a night of heavy drinking.

[@carrieoff]

Sherrill CuCu I think it's just something we are predisposed to. I see it as a blessing now, I'm 44 and keeps me in check. My husband on the other hand is still a heavy binger and suffers hangovers (no anxiety) and feels like shite! I would say it's def a girl thing, all my female friends seem to suffer (some worse than others) with it. It's our bodies way of saying enough is enough!

[@SherrillCuCu]

I'm sure it really is a blessing. Thanks for your comments and sharing. :)

[@vFivecube]

I get really bad anxiety the day after drinking, I dont get panic attacks but i feel completly depleted of dopamine and serotonin lol, like i litrally spend all day in bed not wanting to talk to or see anyone, i dont know how pople do things the day after drinking, but then again only just 2 years ago i could drink 3 nights in a row and get up for work the next morning and be fine so dont know if it comes with age or what :o haha

[@shathaway13]

Good for you! Thanks for your honesty and making this video. I am 66 and recently stopped drinking, my only regret is not having stopped years ago!

[@SeskaLee]

Thank you for sharing!! I became a weekly binge drinker in my late 30s. I quit 100% over 3 years ago. Best thing I've done for my physical and mental health.

[@MadeleineOlivia]

That is amazing Seska! So pleased for you :)

[@bradleyd8760]

Seska Lee I have been drinking for 17 years. I finally told my mom. I need help today is my first day with no drinking

[@alexmiller4418]

Good on you Bradley. How has the fight been going since posting this? you've got this!

[@gothicteddybear2864]

I quit drinking a month ago and FINALLY THERE IS A LIGHT! I am so proud of you:)

[@Akashicsong]

I quit too and I only miss it when I'm feeling stressed out ands that is a reminder that I have healthier tools to manage my emotions. Joy and gratitude are def better highs ✌🏾

[@rengeir7234]

I am dealing with depression...I had to drink a lot due to a stress. Now i dont drink for like 12 days and when the stress come I take nonalcoholic beer. That placebo instantly give me the calm I need and I feel better. I used to be heavy drinker,almost every day so for me is the non alcoholic beer good choice to start somehow :)

[@sandym3239]

Feeling physically better. More confidence. More productivity & creativity. A more organized & cleaner home. More money in my bank account. Looking better. Waking up feeling more alive & ready for a new day. Better health. Eating less junk food. Lower blood pressure. Lower blood sugar. Needed weight loss. Less isolating behavior. Much less anxiety. Better moods. Less depression. Less regret. Less shame. Happier friends & family. A sense of natural euphoria is back. A sense of calm in my life. A sense of strength and power. Better concentration. Better sleep. My skin glows again. Looking forward to a brighter future. Remembering things. An overwhelming sense of pride that I beat this thing! I know I'm a strong woman & the realization of that is stronger than ever. Nothing but positive things have come from not drinking & a whole lot of negative things are gone! Wouldn't go back for anything! Best thing I ever did!

[@ConnieNeedhamWildlife]

I've just given up alcohol, been wanting too for aaaasges but the social pressure makes it so hard. Discovered doing things for myself and staying firm in my beliefs is pretty awesome though 😊 keep up the videos, I love them ❤

[@MadeleineOlivia]

I think I need to make a separate video in the future about the social pressures as honestly that is one of the biggest reasons I didn't give it up sooner sadly. You're so right, 2016 was a year of me doing things for myself and staying firm in my beliefs and it was the best year ever!

[@MadeleineOlivia]

Why is taking care of yourself selfish? Making YOU a priority enables you to help others in ways you never could if you didn't take care of yourself. How could I help others if I was still binge drinking, had an eating disorder and was in a job I hated? I couldn't!

[@XHALE303]

So taking care of yourself & share your experience to help others is craving for attention, but whining on Tube that u still fuck up your life & body cause u lack the discipline is....what?....plane stupid?

[@TonyNuke]

@dustysnoop everybody have to know that she feels like a grown up now ! and social pressure ? this chicks where young and wanted to party, but typically women can never take responsibility 4 any of your dumb decisions. so they blame social pressure or find excuses 4 themselves ( nobody else besides of them cares about ) about how they was shy and BS they so grown up that instead of saying ok was drinking hard, was stupid, they have to find a excuse and someone or something to blame, always drama and attention seeking lol everybody look at me iam a grown women now, it was not my fault that i spend all my money 4 booze, watch me talking in front of the cam , i hope i can make a living of this as so many other women

[@CiaraKennedy]

I think she posted this video cos she thought it might help some people to share her experience. Maybe you should take something from it.

[@valbeliard]

I come from an alcoholic parent and i definitely binge drink when i do drink, even if i go weeks without drinking, when I do it is a lot. So I do have an unhealthy relationship with alcohol, after 2 drinks rarely I can stop. So i found your video very inspiring and I have experienced all those good things when i have gone months without drinking but then I relapse. I hope i can find the strength to quit all together like you did. Thank you for this video and your honesty. Xoxo

[@lunaghbest2436]

hey there. i was like you but now it is worse. thankfully not physically addicted though. you should read This Naked Mind. it will make things a lot easier to control. stop the alcohol in its tracks now rather than later and it will be easier for you.

[@valbeliard]

Mark Best thank you, i shall do so. Anything that works and help its worth a try. Xx

[@valbeliard]

lepetitgarçonsinsocks that is very good to hear that you have it under control, it takes lots of strength and will power, i wish you continue on this positive road and healthy life. Xx

[@valbeliard]

Nande Nodada thank you! Xoxo

[@lunaghbest2436]

i have a link for the book if you'd like it Valeria? :) pdf

[@mimahellsberg789]

I have been sober for 9 months (not pregnant) and I'm so happy I made the decision. I failed so many times before but this time I MADE IT. Thanks for sharing your experience and story!

[@annadavis1211]

How are you doing now Mima?

[@redcat362]

I stopped just 3 months ago. It was ruining my life. When I look back I can see over and over where I screwed up because I was drunk.

[@willcollins1137]

Amen to that brother. It's like playing russian roulette, will you say something real stupid or get into a fight. Or hit the jackpot and get arrested for drunk driving.

[@brittanyk6651]

right!! same

[@isabelvandenameele497]

A few moths ago I decided to cut down on alcohol and I have been so much better since. The regrets and self hate were really tearing me apart and I'm so much better now. It took me making one of the biggest mistakes of my life while drunk but I'm finally at a good place. Lovely, honest video, thank you. It's not a fun thing to realise or to talk about.

[@amysvideologs]

I found that having a night out and getting drunk very very occasionally like a couple of times a year, and then occasionally having 1 glass of wine or 1 measure of scotch once a month or so doesnt cause me any problems. but i used to drink like a 'normal' british young person and it made me feel so shit, caused me anxiety and depression, wasted all my money, made me overweight and unhealthy. now that i rarely drink and very very rarely get drunk, my life is 100x better

[@jodithomas3243]

I started day 2 today 😏...this is more difficult than I've ever imagined. I find these videos encouraging. I am TRULY thankful

[@sosorandom80]

Jodi thomas how are you doing? Are you sticking to it? Today is my first day.

[@cgoodbgoodtv1153]

I'm On day 2 also

[@cristiannuques1718]

The first week was the hardest. Im going on week 4 now and i feel great. You can do it! 😃

[@donniehallaman7685]

Jodi thomas and all others who are in your first 30 days or so. Good for you guys keep it up i feel that all of us are worth more capable of more then we give ourselves credit for. Y I have almost 7 months and its not easy by any means. Your bravery and valor is on full display congratulations.

[@chrishanke9523]

Jodi thomas UPDATE?? As I said above in these comments I am on day 10!! I am not finding it too hard this time for the previously mentioned reasons. I hope you are doing well and are still off the alcohol.👍🏻👍🏻😍😍

[@KeenanTheBarbaric]

I also don't miss hangovers! Sober for two months and 11 days, first time sober for over 10 years and I am 30. It's crazy how much more I get out of the world and learn already. Keep up the great work. It certainly is a huge step that shows a promising future for anyone who struggles.

[@markhill8590]

After a close call with my heart after a drinking binge 3 days ago i decide to stop drinking and focus more on my health, alcohol defiently isn't worth it

[@glory5110]

you can do it!

[@BeckyC123]

Very interesting story to hear - great job on keeping it up! I tried drinking when I was 18 before starting uni & had something very awful happen to me once after drinking too much - I haven't been able to touch anything alcoholic since. Drinking culture at university in the UK is crazy in that you get called 'boring' or 'weird' for not drinking.. very hypocritical of them if they can't make friends or have fun without drinking! Everyone has (often personal) reasons for not drinking so hopefully in the future being a non-drinker will be considered more socially acceptable, whatever the reasons.

[@MadeleineOlivia]

I was sadly one of those people who thought it was weird when people didn't drink! I am so ashamed of myself for having thought that. I am glad I have opened my mind up to realise just how wise those people actually were to choose not to drink at a young age amongst a culture where everyone is binge drinking all of the time!

[@sillywilly6431]

I used to be a happy drinker. Then I started blacking out turned into a shark and started getting a little aggressive. This is day 4 no drinking for me.

[@meganxo3472]

Cutt Thoatish same here

[@toddorr4559]

Haven't you seen Jaws?!? Sharks are not a " little aggressive!" Sheeeese Louise!!!

[@mashgamblez6292]

Day 3 for me

[@zuri_bahari7545]

Me at 3rd day

[@LordArioh]

I used to be.. day 4. haha, there's still traces of alcohol in your blood if you had a nice party. at least hold on for a month, that is when you considered a quitter. my friends are drinking every weekend, so 5 days in between are just work and wait.

[@watermelonineasterhay]

I'm exactly like you, can't drink in moderation, got really into it at uni and carried on for years and was very dependent on it. I'm going to give it up very soon. I have the problem where it grabs hold of you and end up making myself sick and getting into unpleasant situations if I've stayed out late. Living hangover to hangover is no way to live. I was sober for a month last year and enjoyed it a lot. Well done :)

[@mutteredimprecation]

deaconredwhiteandblu I used to be the same, I quit nearly two years ago and the difference is incredible. Not having the feeling of constant embarrassment and worry is such a relief.

[@lunaghbest2436]

hey try reading This Naked Mind. it might be just the tool you need to be free of it.

[@rme1883]

Sally Hance can i ask how..? Did you have to avoid being out with your normal friends for a while? How did you just stop? X

[@cordovabriana]

Omg this is exactly me while drinking!! I’m 13 days sober and I need videos like this to remind me why I’m making this change... thank you!!

[@MeMe-dw1sm]

did you continue?

[@masulitotito]

i love these stories! i've been taking steps to completely stop drinking and i can feel how it's getting easier. i used to be a heavy drinker with terrifying hangovers. thanks for inspiration!

[@margiesvanmori]

Thank you for this video! I am giving up alcohol this year for all of 2022! I am moving into my van this year to travel and I want to be fully present to embrace all the experiences travel brings. You should be proud of yourself! I am so inspired by you! Love and blessings this year!

[@lucitamagana2795]

I’m a binge drinker, I don’t do well at all with alcohol. I become a person that I don’t want to be. I hurt the ones I love the most. Everything you said in this video I experience when alcohol is involved. I feel I’m loosing myself now. I’m 48 years old and I made the decision to quit.

[@baldersn4474]

Im 51 me too !

[@shaniquecairon1273]

Hi beautiful! 2 reasons I had to stop drinking alcohol 1. I'm on anti depressants and 2. It's not good for my blood type. I found that after the days I'd cheat I felt down and in the dumps. So while it might have been "stress relieving " at that moment it actually caused me more stress down the line. Now I deal with my issues in a healthy way and socialize more mindfully with my friends and family. Thumbs up to your sober life ;)

[@digitalnomadgirl]

Such a brilliant video! Really interesting to see how many people are cutting back now or talking more about drinking online. I never drunk but people find it really hard to understand that's it not for extreme religious reasons or anything - I just think I'm better off without it! Still love to go out and tear up the dance floor but also enjoy all the money/calories/cringe moments that I save! Thumbs up for you making a brave change!! (also - outfit and skin on FLEEK!)

[@pixiemoonchild518]

Thank you so much for posting this video. I've been coming out of a rut with heavily drinking. I have recently decided to cut down my intake of alcohol. What happened was a friend of mine died and for some reason, I decided to start drinking heavily and for a while it was really interrupting my life. I'm in a much better place now and it's because I realized several of the things that you talked about in your video. Grieving is a weird thing, but I'm glad I stopped destroying myself over it and decided to turn a new leaf. I'm really putting myself out there so hopefully this message may help someone or have someone simply relate to it. Thank you.

[@EricDec]

I've been drinking for fun from 16 till 30. I couldn't imagine a night with my friends or cousins without being wasted. When I started to get drunk several times a week I decided to take a break for one month. I actually "survived" 3 months without any alcohol and I felt great. In two years I've been drinking less than 4 beers a month and I got drunk only once. I've never felt so great. I go to bed earlier, watch what I eat and take care of myself.

[@stephaniemendez1300]

I don't drink anymore, but listening to this just made me realize how much better my life is. You put it into perspective for me and it just validates how much more beautiful life can be. love your video!!

[@samsonbreed6049]

Congratulations hun.. I too was very similar to you, but a bit more crazier I bet.. and it got to a point that alcohol was gonna end up killing me, if I didn't stop.. "SO I QUIT" been sober 2 months today...and I'm feeling incredibly great.

[@sebastianmebin4136]

Wow. Very few people can give up on alcohol like that. You are a strong woman.

[@highwayfromhell7351]

I had like the same experience with alcohol. I would binge drink like a straight bottle about every day. I also had an eating disorder so I would take adder all to not eat and work out, but throughout the day the anxiety would get so bad I would just drink and drink and drink. I got to the point where that embarrassing feeling when you wake up was so bad that i would leave before everyone woke up and not talk to those people for weeks just so i didn't have to hear the stories. I eventually stopped drinking and i had all those benefits.. however I was still doing drugs so i had similar problems. They screw with your body and emotions so much that you binge eat when they where off. A year ago I finally got completely sober and I was able to cure my eating disorder since I had stable emotions. Its good to suck up the withdrawal for long term happiness :)

[@Pituzer]

So good that you recovered from all of that! I wish you the best.

[@docholliday.4590]

How bad were your withdrawls?

[@MK-gw1iz]

Thats amazing! Well done☺️

[@StephanReed1]

The point about regret - that is my primary motivator. Hangovers suck, the extra calories suck, the loss of productivity sucks, but there is NOTHING worse than that anxiety. It is crippling. Thanks for being an open book here. I identify with your experiences more than every other I’ve seen! Including the eating disorder issues. I hope these past three years have been excellent for you!

[@KiaHazel]

Great video Madeleine! As always and you nailed that thumbnail ;) lol. For the longest time I always wondered "why are we here at my friends place where we made plans to basically get drunk". Like"lets hang out on friday" literally had no other meaning to people other than lets go have drinks, probably get drunk and laugh at how "funny" we all were the next day. It blew my mind and still does that many people think that the person who doesn't drink is boring. And I am 27 years old. People still think like this. Its crazy. But I have tried to get myself out those circles and I no longer feel like I "should" drink. Tbh..I don't often go to friday "hangouts" anymore. Doesn't really serve me too much anymore and am much happier pursuing my dreams ;)

[@jeanniebrittian7335]

Wise awakening Madeleine! It will preserve your beauty for years to come. As a aged U.S. hippy from the 70s, I've done most all substances of that era, and most of my partying buddies have passed or are sick from the damages of that lifestyle. In hindsight I wish I had woke up while I was still young like you. Peace

[@dawna4185]

when you think about, there is mostly nothing good about alcohol....sad it is so prevalent and glorified

[@Adrian-yi8fl]

@Eddie Venkman ... wrong. Alcohol is the problem. Alcohol is addictive. Guess what happens when people take an addictive substance? They get addicted. It's pretty simple. Anyone who drinks alcohol is on the path of addiction. Some are further down that path than others but they're still on the same path. There's no reason to drink alcohol for anyone, therefore there is no such thing as responsible drinking. Alcohol provides no actual benefits. And it is literally poison. Try drinking 100% 200 proof alcohol. You'll be dead because it's poison. It would be like trying to responsibly drink strychnine. This fantasy of being able to responsibly drink an addictive poison is the product of generations of addicts making excuses for their addiction. These excuses have become so ingrained in our culture that we don't even see it for the brainwashing that it is.

[@eintausendeinhundertelf2319]

@Eddie Venkman I think you're somehow right but somehow not. See, the comment was about the glorification of alcohol. I am from Germany and here it is legal to drink at the age of 16... do you think people are well thought and very responsible at this age? Here it is in general really glorified, politics are drinking huge amounts of beer at the Oktoberfest, parents are often drinking daily... there's always a positive and socially accepted picture associated with alcohol. But you should firstly educate the people about the dangers so that in the end it is their choice and they can even estimate their responsibility :)

[@jameswestervelt6808]

My girlfriend passed away by drowning while under the influence. She tried to quit but couldn't. I wish she could have stopped.

[@JazzyCrumbles]

When I first started going to frat parties, I tried drinking. Turns out I'm an emotional drunk, so if I'm in a bad mood, it just makes it worse. I have to be in a fantastic mood for alcohol to be fun, so that put a damper on it all. Not only that, but as a freelancer, I would lose weekend jobs by sleeping through them or being too hungover to work the next day... 😤

[@MadeleineOlivia]

I was never really an emotional drunk, just a crazy one! I did the same with a job I had at uni, I would occasionally miss early starts because I was so drunk I slept through my alarm! I cringe now I think about it!

[@JazzyCrumbles]

Madeleine Olivia ugh, all the opportunities lost is what gets me the most.... 😭

[@badcandy24]

I am a freelancer too. I have lost so many clients due to my problem. For the same exact reasons you mentioned. It's time to stop.

[@MeMyDogAndBooks]

This is very inspiring - thank you for sharing your journey. Like you last year, following similar experiences as well as for health reasons, I started to cut right back on my alcohol consumption and this year (2018) so far I've literally had 2-3 drinks in total and seriously I'm considering just giving up completely for all the reasons you mention and because I don't really miss it. So thanks, because your video has given me the final nudge to do this. I still get questioned as to why I am NOT drinking (it's just so innate in our culture - I'm from Scotland) so that's something I just need to deal with and will pass as people learn I'm no longer drinking. But I feel so much healthier, focussed and productive when I don't, so thanks for inspiring me just to stop! :)

[@IDontKnow-pf6en]

im an alcoholic, trying to stay clean from drink, and it's cool to hear others on the other side. ive had othet addictions that were more severe, but theres something about the ubiquitousness of alcohol that makes it tougher. i was getting the shakes and had to drink everyday. i finally got to a point where i was like i dont wanna live this way anymore. like i just woke up, hungover as usual one morning, and just realized i had a huge, long-term problem. ive relapsed a lot, but everytime it reminds me why i wanted to get off the sauce in the first place. who knows if ill be clean tomorrow or even in a few minutes...if theres anything ive learned from addictions in the past, it's that they never go away. but that battle of wills is what makes me who i am, so whatever.

[@MadeleineOlivia]

You can do it! Keep up the hard work and striving for your goal everyday! I believe in you!

[@aprilapril2]

I hope you are not drinking today x.

[@VeggieMagnifique]

Love this Madeleine! As a Brit living in France I feel like the drinking culture in the UK is really out of hand. It's brilliant that you're spreading the message that you *can* socialise without getting off your face! Keep up the good work xxx

[@TanookiWario]

My first experience with alcohol was when I was nine years old. I was at a cookout with my family and other families. There were several other kids besides myself aged 7-12. There was a keg of beer. All of them took sips and gulps of the stuff saying how good it tasted. I was asked to try some. Now at my age then, I assumed beer was like a soft drink. When I took my sip I spit it out because that was the nastiest thing I ever tried. Also, to me, it was the worst smell of all time. Because of that experience I did not drink alcohol. I was ridiculed for that choice. I went though high school and college without drinking and they said I was weird, wimpy, and spoiled parties because I didn't dink. I took the insults and kept going. Now to wrap this up is my top ten list of why I never started drinking. 1)The smell: all alcohol smelled horrible to me. 2)The taste: It was worse than the smell which was rotten oats or fruit. 3)The cost: I know beer isn't really expensive but wine and liquor is. 4)Generations of alcoholism: My dad, his dad, & his granddad all were alcoholics. If alcoholism is genetic, I did not want to take chance of becoming one too. 5)I am uncomfortable around people who drink heavily. 6)Watching people buying booze. Go to a grocery store one any Friday and they buy cases of beer and boxes of wine and I wonder are their lives so bad that they have to booze up every weekend? 7)No hangovers. I see people this way and they feel horrible. 8)I don't enjoy vomiting. 9)People that are drunk and act chummy with you though don't like you sober. 10)Mean drunks. Some drunk people want to fight with me for one real reason. I hope you enjoyed this.

[@pathfinder1273]

Madeleine, I really liked you for your culinary sharing, but I love you for this one. I quit drinking 43 years ago. I had just turned 18 (yes, 1 year before being legally allowed to drink), and had been drinking a lot since grade 7. My parents had huge parties where alcohol flowed freely, and I was always to sneak generous amounts. I often took bottles to school, and in grade 9 got in a lot of trouble for getting myself and many classmates drunk on a few 26ers I stole from home. By the age of 15 drinking was a regular habit. My forte was that I never passed out, so when everyone else had, I could go around and finish whatever was left in the house. My life has been truly blessed by being free of that despicable substance. I have fun on my own terms, and always remember the fun times afterward. If one were to make a list of the pros and cons of alcohol (the job is half done for you because there are no pros), and the financial effects thereof, it would be unbelievable that such a substance is tolerated in society. One last word: it is amazing how few people know that alcohol is a toxic substance that does irreparable harm to your body (notably the brain and liver), and that it is a causative carcinogen that can contribute to five different forms of cancer. Keep up the good work!

[@pennywalker2143]

you're amazing, giving up alcohol is hard. or at least that is my experience of it. I've been on the journey of giving up alcohol for about 3 years, there have been a few blips in the road that have only resulted in my anxiety going through the roof and being in physical pain. I have been a binge drinker since I was about 14, it was always a normal and big part of my social life and my family are big on drinking too. I suffer from depression and anxiety so I've had to quit drinking because it causes me to relapse, a couple of drinks is that powerful. I also now (I didn't used to) get week long hangovers and terrible heartburn at the time of drinking. it's been hard for me to accept I can't drink, but I think that's down to our drinking culture.

[@7watertiger]

Thanks for the encouragement! I have tried quitting several times only to go back eventually. I am so done wasting my life with alcohol. Watching a video when I feel a craving has been helping!

[@markg.4246]

We drink again, because we’re not dealing with the root problem. The root problem being “self”. As long as my focus was “trying not to drink”, I was screwed! I had to start living differently. The “twelve steps” are what enabled me to live differently. Almost 25yrs later I am still sober, and my life is better than ever! Best wishes to you.

[@7watertiger]

Mark G. Thanks Mark, I am 3 months sober now!

[@s4ndmanthorsminion637]

Good for you, it has been 7 years for me since I stopped drinking that poison, yes I did the research and the physical and phycological effects that it does to the human body are devastating if I could go back in time and slap my younger self not to start drinking i would. But as i have learned, [I cannot change the past, I live in the now and look forward to the future. ]

[@haysooon]

I’m currently 20 and feel like I’ve not got much in terms of prospects at the moment due to my habit. Everything you described at the beginning of this video I relate to right now. I began drinking very regularly because of the job I was in a couple of years ago and it became (has become) such a regular occurrence to the point where I essentially can’t stop and spend 4/7 days of the week hungover. It rinses my money and has definitely had an impact on who I am mentally compared to a few years ago. Recently I made the decision to just stop straight up or at least cut down majorly and watching this/reading other people’s comments has filled me with confidence. I’ve made efforts in the past and have nothing negative to say about how I feel when sober, it’s just the recurring cycle of being tempted back into it after a few days that I need to rid myself of. Hopefully this is the turning point, cheers :)

[@imtinyem]

This is off topic, but your top is beautiful!

[@MadeleineOlivia]

Thank you!

[@snomad2248]

she'd look even better with no top whatsoever!

[@alexrozenbom3430]

i agree

[@screlchh]

pauld9 - you must be so rude, pervert 😒

[@garrykennedy5484]

True, but I've been drinking and now wonder how good it would be if she took the top off. That's a disgusting thing to say if I were sober, but I'm not. But I know if I were and hear another guy say that then I would think badly of him. Crap.... OK I need to quit. It is fun though. That's what makes it so hard. I need help I think. I don't drink every day. Just every 2 or 3 days, but when I do I stay home and try not to offend anyone. i became an alcoholic because of the friends I kept. I got rid of those friends because I didn't like how they got when they drank. Now that I drink alone, I find myself doing the same crap sometimes. I'm unhealthy because of it, but have no one in my life to be better for yet don't want to invite anyone into my life as it is. This hurts to admit, but it's the truth nonetheless. Dang it. I need better friends, but I'm an addict. I have a hard time not drinking because I have no one, yet I want someone I think. It's not easy, so if you're reading this comment and have not had alcohol be a problem, then stop right now. It's like getting overweight, (which I've become a bit.) It's harder to get back in shape the longer you wait to do it. You know what??? once this bottle is gone I think before I go buy another one I will commit to watching at least 30 minutes of these videos and see if I can't let them convince to to not buy that next bottle. AAA can't help me because they require I submit to a higher purpose than myself. I am spiritual, but not religious so that would only annoy me. What else is there out there?

[@TheFusedplug]

Great video I'm actually now quit 9 weeks so far and never looking back I'm 44 now and as a result of quitting I feel better now than when I was 24 (that's a fact) I was a binge drinking idiot for many years and had a stop/start thing going on with drink because I've always been conscious that it was buggering my life up. I stayed focused by searching Vloggers posts "how I felt after quitting booze" or "why I quit booze" and that's how I found your video it's nice to see others take the same initiative, drinking alcohol I think used to be so part of life for my generation and others before that people used to feel alienated from society if they even mentioned about quitting booze but now it's quite a respectful thing to do. Let's hope it becomes an epidemic this quitting stuff :) Keep at it and well done the only way to reach your full potential in this world and stay looking good = STAY SOBER

[@brandonhall9959]

Sober since march 7th 2018, and feeling awesome!

[@alessandrac1940]

Same here! Exact date.

[@jakeamberson6675]

Well done. I recently gave up alcohol. I'm still feeling very alone, strangely out of sorts, a little excited but also terrified. It has been such a huge part of my life and I guess it's the unknown that worries me. I turned vegan this year and was going through therapy, learning so much about myself, I think things just coalesced and I reached a point where I couldn't justify drinking anymore. I really enjoyed your story and wish you continued health and success.

[@that1kidjr]

55 days sober and counting after 10 years straight binge drinking. Couldn't feel better! The bank account is looking real nice =)

[@verucasalt4535]

Don't forget, better sleep!!! I've gotten so much good sleep since quitting alcohol. I needed this video. Thank you so much.

[@ivetakovacova4969]

4 years for me ✌🏻

[@karengiarla4162]

Congratulations! I had 6 yrs and 9 months of sobriety and I relapsed for the past 3 yrs. I now have 47 days sober. Just never get bored ,stressed, complacent and don't ever think you're cured if you are an alcoholic. I hope you have a few support groups. Like A.A.

[@seang5271]

I quit in September 2014. This video really resonated with me.

[@alimakingmyway3006]

This really inspired me. I've only been alcohol free for a few weeks but i'm already starting to experience these positive outcomes. Congratulations to you btw!

[@kimberlybrodeur6866]

Alcohol makes me look flat and bloated. Not very good.

[@TheArianedg]

One of the most useful video i ever saw on youtube. Thank you Madeleine for sharing your story with us. I am experiencing black out due to alcohol and have been working hard in the past to control my intake. It has not been a perfect path but i am slowly going toward my goal. You video gave me extra boost of motivation and confidence! Thank you

[@john97487]

10 positive reasons to give up alcohol.. Great video x

[@carriefraser2555]

Hi Madeleine, I am in the process of giving up alcohol - mainly for health and wellbeing reasons. I have had similar experiences to you, as I'm sure lots of folk have...confidence, social butterfly, black out (not actually knowing how I got home) amongst others. Now I am in my 40's I find that I no longer need to turn to alcohol to feel less stressed or to have a good time. I would much rather read a good book and know that I will have a good nights sleep (free from pounding headache, feeling too hot and having a mouth like a desert). One issue I am finding I come up against is the lack of support and understanding from others who feel a need to 'force' me to have a drink (for want of a better word). This sends me into a panic as I often feel like I am backed into a corner and have to succumb to having a few drinks just to satisfy the want of others...it's a tough one but for all the reasons you mentioned in your video, the right decision!

[@Olusiowa]

Ok. So when you drink alcohol just to get drunk and don't know when to stop, then you have a problem. For me there is a HUGE difference between drinking just to have fun, and drinking like 1 glass of wine to the dinner at the weekend. I don't think that there is something wrong in drinking one or two tasty drinks during the whole evening while hanging out with friends. You won't be drunk and you won't have hangover. :)

[@DiaglaTM]

Britain has a weird drinking culture. We binge drink a lot.

[@hydyho6305]

The timing for me finding this could not have been better. I have been realizing more and more that I need to eliminate alcohol from my life. All of the benefits that you've shared here are so appreciated. Thank you. Oh and.....new sub. 😊

[@stephdegoede8316]

I dunno if it is the sobriraty or not, but you look gorgeous!

[@Nat-gh2tt]

It's been extremely difficult to stop drinking for me. I've quit and picked it back up I don't know how many times over the course of 15 years. But it was after my SECOND dui, losing my driver's license, and my job, that I realized it was time to make a change. Its been almost a year of sobriety and I feel so much better about myself. I'm glad you were able to make a change at your age. You don't want to be in your 30s or 40s stuggling with this. I go to AA and I watch videos like yours to remind myself what it means to stay sober.

[@rachelc586]

I have been watching your videos and we are very similar. I have been sober 7 years

[@SK-lo1cj]

I am 19 years old and from central europe (where you are allowed to drink some drinks from the age of 16 and others from 18 on) Now I'm 19 years old and have NEVER drunk alcohol. Even though I am sometimes kind of jealous, when others go out, I have been glad every day afterwards, when others called me talking about their horror-hangovers.

[@maraelina8065]

woah, where is that top from? it's gorgeous. you are glowing in this video.

[@integrativehealthcoachkare6198]

Great message!! I’m sober over a month. I’m not so depressed and anxious anymore. My weekends are so much better now that I know I’ll wake up feeling healthy!

[@weronikaarmstrong4853]

Good decision! No more poisoning ypur beautiful body

[@jadevandall2563]

It's inspiring how honest you are! I believe so many people lie to themselves that they have a grip on things when truly they are experiencing serious issues.. Thank you!

[@karabear4640]

you look beautiful and healthy in this video 😍❤!

[@MadeleineOlivia]

Thank you Kara!

[@caityvonne_]

I love how honest you are in this. I've never been a big drinker myself but it's nice to hear your experience x

[@heidijimenez2069]

Did you notice a change in friend circles? or did you still keep your "going out/drinking" friends (so to speak)? I noticed not wanting to go out as much to bars because it's not as fun being sober there. Like i'd go for an hour or 2 then want to leave. Is this something you experienced?

[@jillianryan1890]

Heidi Gonzalez I experience this no fun being in a pub drinking soda and lime for more and 1 hour

[@alanamcl6550]

I love this video. Sometimes I can loose my gratitude for what I have since I have not been drinking and this morning you have reminded me of everything! As a recovering alcoholic, sober over 3 years, my life has changed so much. I have been able to open up my own dance school(something I always wanted to do but due to alcoholism I couldn't do) I have peace of mind and feel comfortable in my own skin more than I've ever been. My friends and family don't need to worry about me, I remember everything I do and don't grow a nasty tongue like I use too when drinking. I am free. One day at a time. Thank you again for this video , lots of love from Alana in Glasgow xx

[@shaystar9347]

You really help me...I'm stopping today

[@AF-ke9by]

I never did the excessive drinking thing when I was younger, but did a few years ago, during my late 30's, while I was involved with one particular man; it was a short-lived experience for me. After about a year of drinking several times per week, I simply stopped one day. I would feel gross and lethargic, or used it as a social 'relaxer', and realized I was mimicking others, instead of being myself. Not fun! Good for you for recognizing how drinking was impacting your life. That top is simply gorgeous on you, Madeleine!

[@annettetaylor8992]

I've never drank but a couple sips of wine and hate it I'm 23 and never gotten drunk, or actually drink a full glass of anything. It never appealed to me.

[@MadeleineOlivia]

I wish I had the strength you have!

[@annettetaylor8992]

Madeleine Olivia I think the only reason is because I had a strongly alcoholic family member so I refuse to drink sometimes I'll even "drink" put it back into the bottle in public so people don't make fun, but usually I just pass.

[@blushfaerie]

Annette Taylor Im actually repulsed by the smell and taste of alcohol, I had a taste once and was like ew wtf is that! lmao also I drank a little spritzer that had some alcohol but tasted good and I woke up feeling like absolute shit, never again. I don't feel the need to drink

[@markg.4246]

Madeleine Olivia It has nothing to do with “strength”. Her DNA is different from the alcoholic drinker.

[@j.t.strong4913]

I used to be a total alcoholic and have a similar story to you. But I prayed and asked Jesus Christ to come into my life and change me. And He did. I was totally set free from alcohol in 2010 and lost all desire for alcohol through the power of Jesus Christ. If you are struggling with alcohol I want you to know that Jesus is the answer to set you free. He loves you, died for you, rose again, and is coming back. Give your life to Jesus and you will never regret it. He has a great plan for your life. John 8:34-36- Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

[@glennamartin193]

I'm so glad you had the ability to put it down. Must say here that is not always possible...even for the very young. Alcoholics Anonymous is everywhere in the world. There are now more programs. Seek help if perhaps you are not someone like Madeline. There's no shame! It's only a shame people wait so long. I'm so happy Madeline has beautifully outlined some of the wonderful promised life without drugs and alcohol.

[@RaulMartinez-fi1sj]

Glenna Martin Yes. That's because alcohol is extremely addictive. Let's not lose sight of that.

[@M0stlyStormie]

I tried AA but i didn’t like it because it was all older people (50-65) mostly men. & while it was helpful to see what could happen later in life if I don’t stop, I felt like an outsider. I am going to look for support groups of people more my age; I am glad KZbin is there for now

[@donniehallaman7685]

M0stly Stormy well find a diffrent meeting i agree with you on that i know there are a lot of successful young people in aa and a wide variety of meetings to choose from you can find your place i have im a member get a where and when. Good luck to you hope u find piece

[@M0stlyStormie]

Been going strong for 11 days now. I guess I judged AA too soon! Very supportive group now

[@donniehallaman7685]

M0stly Stormy good im so glad to hear it congrats on 11 days thats huge " keep coming back" proud of you. I deff understand the struggle is real for sure.

[@OTPpride]

when i stopped drinking for 4 months. 1) Healthier. Put on weight. Less pimples. 2) Weekends were trash and I stopped getting laid 3) Decreased creativity and increased time distracted using my phone etc. 4) Led to me quitting smoking. 5) Stopped losing my weekend days to hangovers. I went back to drinking, but only half or a quarter as often as before I stopped, and found: 1) Health has remained the same. 2) Weekends are awesome again. Getting laid. 3) Wrote 20-25k words the first fortnight back on the grog. Phone time statistics saw a 15% drop the first week, and 10% the next week and continuing drops of about 5-7%. 4) Haven't bought any cigarettes, however, have slipped and had one on a night out a few times. 5) Yeah weekends often get lost to the hangover.

[@RaulMartinez-fi1sj]

Yes...booze sucks. But it can be fun.

[@stacie9320]

It's so true everything you said ! I have social anxiety and I've always turned to alcohol to confront people and I've noticed that my anxiety is twice as bad after drinking especially when I don't remember omg 😱 that pushed me even more to willing to stop drinking thanks for this video !

[@unexowa4914]

Could you tell me where did you buy that top/dress ? it's amazing!!

[@bubbaflatile]

I would love to know where you got it 2?

[@vervagy7837]

same, its beautiful

[@mcanduiken2224]

Always refreshing to see this discussion!!! I used to absolutely LOVE drinking, it was always very fun. Fortunately my interest in alcohol has declined, and I'm on the verge of either hardly ever drinking at all, or possibly never again. People simply aren't able to remember how good it feels to be alcohol free for a significant period of time. Drinking is basically a way to make doing the same thing over and over again exciting. Great video, and great points, especially regarding creativity!!!!

[@riftoakcut]

i need a cocktail watching this.....and its only 7 am

[@emkato21]

riftoakcut literally me

[@MissNevada08]

Thank you, you gorgeous gal. I'm a binge drinker that has been trying to stop completely for 8 months. When I dont drink for weeks, I'm SO much happier. It really does a number on my brain chemistry. So here is to knowing that tonight I will be putting my sober head on my pillow. I hope to achieve long lasting sobriety like you.

[@topvivid91]

Loved this video :) I was wondering if you experienced any negative things when you stopped drinking? I think my relationship with alcohol is similar to how yours was but I'm worried about quitting and having my social life disappear. I'm at university, and so many social events/gatherings are centred around drinking. I have the will power to go to a party and remain sober, but Ive found people generally react badly to it. They want you to drink with them, not in a nasty or bullying way, just in a lets-all-have-fun-doing-this-thing-together way. Like its a weird bonding activity, and if I don't participate I'm boring and less involved. I think I might alienate myself in a way if I stopped drinking totally. Its unfortunate that its such a social thing...damn British drinking culture!!

[@ReltubTheWiz]

Maybe you could try drinking lemonade, or juice and just stand your ground? You might find if you're the only one that's sober, the 'fun' other people seem to be having is not really much fun at all. In a few years time you might want to have children. That's when I stopped, it just made me feel sick, and never went back. I've been teetotal for 32 years. I go for a drink after work with work mates sometimes, after 2 hours they are getting drunk and it just doesn't seem fun to me, so I go home, without making a big thing of it, or even saying anything, but I've had a good time, I've socialised and I've drunk lemondade all night.

[@drahcirnevarc9152]

Elderflower cordial is your friend!

[@yumemonogataly]

If your friends judge you not drinking, they are not real friends.

[@donniehallaman7685]

emmy12345678 i think you will naturally find friends and other peers that dont drink if not seek them out. Drinking/drug friends are usually "fair weathered friends" anyways not ones that truly love and respect you. I have 7 months sober it was my experience.

[@natepike6147]

44 years old with a rich history of steady drinking. Although the blackouts were far and few between I still burned parts of my life to the ground. The depression, anxiety, and shit sleep started to build, especially in the last year or two. Finally I said no more and I meant no more. Took my last single beer 2 days ago and woke up feeling like I'd had 10. No fucking more! It's been only a day and some but I feel so strongly in this and am 100% committed to the restructuring and healing of my life, even if it's rough. Thankfully I have a long standing yoga and meditation practice, and a support network I can lean into. New year, new times! And congrats on your sobriety!

[@omegamale7880]

#11 Your liver grew back.

[@KP-5928]

I am so glad that I found your channel. You are so relatable and open and honest with yourself and others. Truly inspirational. Your health stories are so similar to mine that it's honestly a bit scary. Thank you for putting yourself out there! So refreshing and relieving to know that I am not the only one who feel like you do about alcohol, past eating disorders, etc.

[@Sugabullets]

If you drink you have unresolved childhood issues. I used to drink but literally, nothing changed expect impairment in my motor neutrons and my "excuse" to be crazy because I was "drunk".

[@shokosugi561]

Stellar Fervour Not necessarily..although thats a factor some people are gemetically more predisposed too drinking..Other gentic conditions play a part (ie ADHD) etc..And some people just like drinking but they develop a bad habit..

[@nerdygirljen]

All the same here - really & truly it's life-changing and I would recommend abstaining for anyone, even those who don't have a big habit of drinking, it's so good for your body and mind without it. I always tell people to try it for a few months or a year and see how it changes them, there's no negative effects of quitting, there's a multitude of negative effects of drinking. (edit: if you are an alcoholic, consult your doctor before quitting, as you may need some help with withdrawal - thought I'd add that - my comment is really geared towards those who are able to stop without medical intervention)

[@hanniffydinn6019]

Smart people don't drink

[@spherex6523]

Oh Yes, it is.

[@jip8793]

There is something like moderate eating and drinking. If you can't control yourself properly that means that you simply can't drink. You can find a balance in everything. Of course the reasons you mentioned are all good to stop drinking and it's totally personal thing to do and I'm happy that you have found what is best for you.