One year without alcohol did NOT change my life

One year without alcohol did NOT change my life.
A year ago I went out for a nice romantic dinner with my wife. Over dinner we shared a nice bottle of red wine. That night I went to bed, but I couldn’t sleep. I lay there looking up at the ceiling. My thoughts were racing. A huge storm of thoughts passed through my mind, mostly negative. And I then I noticed my breathing. I was struggling to catch my breath. I could feel my heart pounding through my chest and my heartbeat was abnormally high. The room started spinning and I had no idea what was going on. I staggered to the bathroom and by this point I was afraid. I didn’t realise it, but I was experiencing my first ever panic attack.
The anxiety passed, but I didn’t sleep much that night. In that moment, I made the decision to stop drinking alcohol.
I’d only had half a bottle of wine, so I didn’t wake up with a hangover, but I knew in that moment, that alcohol was one of the main contributing factors to the anxiety I had experienced.
So there’s no story of me hitting rock bottom after four days of debauchery and then checking in to rehab. It’s far more tame than that. Half a bottle of wine one evening over a romantic dinner was enough to convince me that alcohol was something I needed to live without.
This video tells the story of my first year without alcohol - the highs, the lows, what I have learnt and how my life has changed for the better.
The idea for quitting alcohol had been planted in my mind a year before I decided to quit. I had come across a series of inspirational individuals who had transformed their lives after they quit drinking. I had the privilege of making a handful of testimonial videos for the organisation One Year No Beer who help people change their relationship with alcohol. Being exposed to these people, and helping then tell their stories had a big impact on me.
Whilst I had never been a problem drinker, hearing first hand about how significant these peoples’ lives had become since they stopped drinking was something that was hugely inspiring.
Check out One Year No Beer here: www.oneyearnobeer.com
Thanks for watching the video One year without alcohol did NOT change my life.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

I now have a sequel to this video! 'I quit drinking alcohol for two years. Here's what happened': kzbin.info/www/bejne/j6rYp6ylo6hnfs0

[@itscool770]

It’s crazy how in all the years of regular drinking (16-39) I never linked alcohol to my anxiety. 33 days sober and never going back. Thank you. Wish I had done this sooner.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

I wish you good health and happiness. Thank you very much for your comment!

[@lilfishbigsea007]

Are you still sober?

[@itscool770]

@@lilfishbigsea007 70 days sober today actually! I also decided to quit caffeine 5 days ago which is surprisingly harder than anything else I’ve quit. If you are thinking about quitting alcohol it is really worth it. I don’t even think about it anymore. It just doesn’t consume my mind anymore and I feel so free.

[@Ghetto-toaster22]

@@itscool770hey are you still sober? I am now 12 months sober and i drank from age 16-37 and i am 38 now so were almost the same ago. I tried quitting a couple times but never made it passed 3-4 months. I kept trying and the last time stuck, now at 12 months sober. I now never have any urges for even 1 drink and dont ever plan on drinking ever again. Sober life is much much better! How often did you drink?

[@greatlakes4753]

I took alcohol to the very edge. In October 2021 I spent 3 weeks in the hospital and was told I had less than 6 months to live. 16+ months sober and my GI doctor and nephrologist are at a loss for words. I just found other productive things to do and made some diet and lifestyle changes. It can be done. Good luck to everyone.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you for sharing your story. And very best of luck to you 👍

[@theamazingadventuresofjohn]

I'm so happy for you, congratulations on accomplishing your goal! Please, tell me how you were able to do it. I want to quit drinking, I drink sometimes a pint every other day, sometimes a pint or two a week, sadly sometimes it might even be more than that... I'm talking about vodka, ranging anywhere between 70 proof and 100 proof. I haven't reached the point of withdrawals, luckily. But the urge that comes to drink is so powerful, it almost feels like I lose control over myself. I want to be done, I want to quit, as stupid as that sounds. I feel trapped, I'm fucking terrified. Please, any advice at all would be appreciated.

[@greatlakes4753]

​@@theamazingadventuresofjohn I think I needed that three weeks in the hospital to see things through a different lens. I had a lot of work/family/financial problems bugging me that I believe were driving the excess drinking. They still exist but I was just able to let them go and not overtake me. Alcohol was doing nothing to help solve them anyway. The hospitalization was my admittance of defeat in a way. When I walked out of there I just took it day by day. I let the day unfold before me instead of trying to force it. I started eating healthier and eliminating alcohol along with that led to steady weight loss which feels pretty good. People say not to undergo any major changes in the first year or two of sobriety so I haven't done that yet but I do have plans in the works. I still see my drinking buddies but just a lot less often. I tried quitting before and got all hung up in the drama of "this is my last beer" and trying to envision a future without it which just put more pressure on me. I just walked away from it and let it stand alone as an earlier time in my life. It's part of who I used to be. My advice is to not make it into a bigger deal than it is. Look behind the alcohol for clues as to why you overindulge in it and try to understand them first. I was always looking for advice from other people but found success when I listened to what my body and mind were telling me and let it go.

[@theamazingadventuresofjohn]

@@greatlakes4753 you know that is the best most solid piece of advice I have ever been given, thank you so much for taking the time to share some wisdom. A couple weeks ago after a long day of drinking I passed out, later during the night I woke up in a cold sweat struggling to catch my breath while my heart was beating out of my chest. I tried to regulate my breathing wondering to myself if I was about to have a heart attack, I showed all the key signs that I was about to have one. Out of nowhere I ended up having a mild seizure, I felt it coming and I'm glad I was already laying down when it hit. My mind went blank, my eyes shut tight and I lost all sense of reality for a few seconds. That was the first time that had ever happened, scared the living shit out of me. I looked over at my baby girls and my wife, asked myself what the fuck I was doing with my life. Decided right then I was done, and to be honest I think I needed that. That was the final straw, haven't had a single drop in a week or two and don't plan on drinking anytime soon.

[@patrickwalker-nolan7617]

@@theamazingadventuresofjohn I hope things are going well for you still John that is such a great sudden realisation story. I have one of my own: about 12 weeks ago whilst staying with my daughter she noticed that my ankles were swollen and pointed it out to me. I explained that it was probably a symptom of heart failure. My daughter, a professional woman of 32, wept like a baby with real tears rolling down her face and said that she didn’t want me to die. I tried to tell her that there was nothing I could do to prevent dying, which on reflection I found to be untrue. Since that moment I stopped drinking and sought medical advice. I’m being treated for heart failure and as part of the diagnosis I had an MRI which revealed I had a growth on my adrenal gland, I didn’t know I had one (an adrenal gland that is). Now I’m also in the process of being treated for this, which may require surgery. My thinking is less foggy and my appetite has improved, I can read and understand the Sunday papers better than I have in years. I’m sleeping better, but I’m still a bad tempered old cuss, who has been saved from further damage from drink. Sorry I’m rambling. Just to say the stories here are inspirational and make me keep on keeping on. Best of luck to all with ditching drink.

[@lemaitrethemonk]

Anxiety is the main reason why I put down the sauce. Growing up, I would equate anxiety with a weak mind. Now that I have experienced anxiety. I realized that compassion is something that I need to practice/show to others and especially, myself. It was difficult to put down the sauce, due to using booze as a crutch to "deal" with life. Once I removed the crutch. I had to embrace my thoughts/issues head on. Exercise, meditation and speaking to my pastor(s) have helped me out, TREMENDIOUSLY! Seek help in yourself and others. May God Bless you and keep you safe. YOU ARE WORTH THE WAIT AND DESERVE A PEACEFUL JOURNEY THROUGH LIFE!

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Well done you. I wish you all the very best!

[@NotfromDateline]

Exactly!

[@damian-795]

The joy of NOT drinking is quite incredible. I wish I had done it when I was younger though. Also what did it partly for me was the 2017 Cambridge study which showed alcohol has no benefits to the human body in any form

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

I totally agree with this!

[@laurenpaterson3475]

It full of yeast and crap

[@ap5194]

Brilliant video. I myself quit in 2018. Alcohol is the new smoking, its being seen for what it is. Addiction

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you very much. Totally agree.

[@Malaphisis]

true

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

@@Malaphisis 👍

[@colinrussell2017]

Indeed. A destructive product with far more negative traits than users would like to believe

[@johnfloy]

I'm about to hit one year sober myself on 9/20/22 and I tell you, I do not regret that decision one bit. I can relate to all the positive points you noted in your video for sure. Congrats sir! Keep it up, thanks for sharing.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you so much! And many congratulations to you too. I know how hard it can be for some people so that is no mean feat. I hope you can keep it going too. 👍

[@dannyb7166]

God bless I hope you are still going strong. I began my sobriety 9/27/22

[@jayjenzo2786]

Coming upto one year sober in January, I still struggle with being alone and not mixing soo well with society. I think the problem is the place I live as everybody drinks at the pub and I just don't find any happiness there at all. If anything I feel anxious there amongst people that are drinking heavily and laughing out loud over jokes I don't find funny. I will drink zero lagers and try to mix for an hour or two but it sucks the life out of me. Problem aswell is my Fiance drinks and alot so I struggle with that also. I feel great body wise but mentally I still find it all a challenge and that is getting hard now. Does anything change further after a year? Or am I to accept this is me sober and now I need to just work further on myself because I feel now like I live a very boring life. Many thanks

[@misspiggy3606]

You need to replace the time you would have been drinking with something else, exercise is a good one. Don.t necessarily just head to the gym, there are so many options, martial arts, yoga. Also look at discovering a new interest, perhaps something you have flirted with the idea of trying. Try to find classes where you will be mixing with others. Look for some variety and aim to give yourself a new experience each week, doesn’t have to be something big, walk a different route, visit somewhere you have never been before.

[@margiesvanmori]

I love this. Tomorrow is my 25th birthday and I have decided not to drink for the entire year of 2022. I want to build out my van home, work in film and tv and live life to the fullest. Life is too beautiful to be distracted from it with alcohol.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Happy birthday! Many thanks for your kind comment. Wishing you all the very best for your plans for the coming year!

[@margiesvanmori]

@@Swiftfilmsuk thank you 😊

[@deslow7411]

Well have you drank?

[@margiesvanmori]

@@deslow7411 i have not☺️ almost 250 days in and I ran my first marathon along the coast of California. Van build is 60% of the way done and I got my first lead in a feature film. God is very good💜

[@deslow7411]

@@margiesvanmori That's amazing :) Im 3 weeks in and hoping to leave it for good. Marathon was my dream also, but my knees wenr pretty bad ever since hitting 30 years old :'D I did run half when I was 25. Maybe if I get more energy and motivation after leaving alcohol I'll start that good running habit again.

[@navahluwalia9491]

I have at last stopped drinking , not with will power, but seeing alcohol for what it really is. It’s only been 2 months , but already like you, I am in such a better place , mentally, physically and spiritually, my family of course are in my life again. It’s the fact that alcohol is not banned or controlled as a destructive drug that needs to be addressed or seen by the world as such, that needs addressing but it’s so ingrained in our lives and society. I have lost so called friends since quitting, but hey ho, I have gained so much more. Your video is inspiring, thank you.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you very much! I wish you all the very best.

[@larry1824]

There is no such thing as willpower. Trust me

[@hansdegebruiker1968]

I almost drank me to death last year. I came out of a very toxic relationship last year juni the 15th. Due to this relationship I lost my pension money and my life in Holland. I live now in Hungary. I started to drink extremely and every day more and more until I drank 2 bottles of wine and 1 bottle of wodka a day. I had more and more thoughts of wanting to die and being a total worthless human being living in a strange country. Until the 6th of January 2023. There I experienced a severe pain in my chest to my left arm. That day I came home and sat on my couch and started to talk to myself. After a long emotional conversation with myself I never drank anymore and also quit smoking. The next day I started sports daily and since then I already lost 8kg. I started at 114 and want to go to 95kg. Not only my body heals now but also my mind. I'm still alone but not lonely anymore. I still am broke and poor, but not in my mind. I live now for myself and my sport and will walk the earth alone till I die, free of any addiction.

[@bobbyjames4300]

You did it , that’s one hell of an accomplishment.. you took control and you won.congratulations brother , you are my inspiration..

[@sephiroth1234]

Goed bezig man 👍👍

[@Tommy-Goon]

Great video bro, really enjoyed it. Social pressure and 'being boring' is definitely a major hurdle I'm struggling with. This video has definitely inspired me to think about that and try again.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you very much! Yes, the social pressure is a big problem and it’s something I have encountered a few times. I guess you just have to be strong and know exactly what you’re going to say when this comes up. Much easier said that done. I wish you the very best of luck. Thanks again!

[@EndlessTravels]

Feel ya on this My move was just finding a new "Social" circle. I started to realise if we was not drinking, we where not very fun together or it just got stale as hell The new friends I have no, and the ones that stuck it out supportive wise we have all done amazing things since

[@mdaniels6311]

I'm the same buddy, but I'm planning to focus on making music and djing so I can still be at the party.

[@tyler5246]

I’m a college student who doesn’t drink. I still go to clubs, get a soda and have a good time. Every one else is too drunk to notice!

[@sparkymularkey6970]

​@@tyler5246 Same here, dude! There are honestly so many other non-alcoholic drinks that exist now (including the classics like soda and such), that it's easier and easier to still have a drink in your hand.

[@Pocklock950]

Well done mate! A really great achievement! I completely understand how you feel and why you’ve done it. I attended a family gathering this weekend and seeing some of the adverse affects of alcohol and how it made me feel really hit your points home. Thinks it’s time I jump on the wagon and try this! Great video!

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you very much! I really appreciate that. I can definitely recommend the experience, although as I mention in the video, it hadn’t been quite as life-changing for me as it has been for others. I wish you the very best of luck. Thanks again 🙂

[@arturrabelo1]

Hey Sam, I’ve just hit the 8 months sobriety mark and I will probably not drink ever again. Once you become more aware of yourself around people drinking, you realise how much people change and how thin becomes that line between the fun and the inconvenience. Get on board and give it a go. After the 3rd month it gets easier :)

[@shoutatthesky]

I have just had a year off alcohol. There were definite improvements in my gut health and sleep quality, but what no one seems to talk about much is the danger of removing a significant aid to traumatised people. I took away my main medicine and it left me turning to much unhealthier coping mechanisms. If you suffer from trauma or unresolved issues make sure you have the space and support to fill the gap left by removing alcohol. Alcohol is a terrible drug but it does provide a measure of relief to those with turmoil in their brain.

[@Boobalopbop]

Are you a doctor? You are literally the only person to suggest it’s healthy to treat personal suffering or trauma with alcohol. Even people who are aware that they’re doing that know that’s not healthy, in fact it’s dangerous.

[@parkerlee3912]

@@BoobalopbopI think you misunderstood the above comment, taking the words literally. “Medicine” was used as metaphor for alcohol, not as literal medicine. Most of us drink too much because we’re trying to escape our pain, or hide from ourselves, or whatever, for temporary relief - we use it as “medicine,” in other words. The takeaway here is, if you don’t confront your past trauma and get support through therapy or other means, it will be very hard to stop drinking and not replace it with yet another vice or unhealthy coping mechanism.

[@ninjastriker6761]

@@Boobalopbop Didn't suggest it healthy, but has benefits.You don't need to be a doctor to feel what's right for you. Actually you know it better than any doctor.

[@Junkitup]

Great input , swapping the bitch for the witch leaves the demons dancing.

[@mikeshafer]

Actually I find that quitting alcohol, as someone suffering trauma, has been the first step to recovery since this focuses me to sit with those horrible thoughts and find better treatments (MDMA, EDMR, etc). Alcohol numbed those feelings for decades for me.

[@mrsnulch]

Wow this is a genuinely well-made video! Love the shots too.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you very much! 🙏

[@romanaandewan]

Just found your channel Superb. Recommended by David Wheater. Fantastic episode. Brilliantly put together. I am nearly 5 years sober. Changed my life. Never would have started our channel or learned to edit or film stuff. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

I really appreciate your kind comments. Thanks a lot! Yes, alcohol is just one of those things that I’m happy to live without now. My decision hasn’t been quite as life-changing as it has been for others I know but I don’t really miss it. Nice of David to recommend my channel! I’ll be sure to check out your channel too. Always good to watch other KZbinrs based in Edinburgh. All the very best to you and thanks again!

[@badabing8884]

I think moderation is the key. I can still enjoy alcohol but really cut down and it’s a treat at weekends with a meal rather than binge and normalise it.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Moderation is a great idea for those who can manage it. For me, abstention is easier. I never have to give any thought to how much I might drink, when I might drink, what I will do if I want to have more, how I might travel places etc. I find having to make these constant decisions draining. But I totally understand where you are coming from!

[@badabing8884]

@@Swiftfilmsuk absolutely. I am of East Asian descent so I can’t metabolise alcohol as easily. So that also helps me not to drink to excess. But for those who can’t control how much they drink abstention is the best policy.

[@OziBlokeTimG]

Disagree

[@Dbb27]

Watch Andrew Huberman on KZbin on alcohol. He gives the science behind alcohol and the effects on your body. I was just giving it a try but after that I am done.

[@larry1824]

If you've been thinking about that you may have a problem.

[@pradhyumnalavania1406]

Your Video Quality is so damn good. You are going to be among the big names for sure. Following your fitness Journey!! Love from India!

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you very much! That’s really appreciated 🙂

[@Vincent_Preston]

Personally, I am an alcoholic bc of the same thing you explained at the beginning. If I drink one even a few drinks, once it's wearing off, my anxiety shoots through the roof, and I can't sleep at all. This led me to heavy binge drinking more and more. Now my hangovers are so bad that all I do is lay in bed all day.. Im gonna give it up again, hopefully it sticks this time.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you for your comment and I wish you the very best of luck.

[@philcudworth8491]

Just done 2 weeks without drinking after 40 years drinking every night. Not sure I'm gonna abstain completely but feel I've reset and got a grip on it hopefully.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Very well done you! I can imagine how hard this must have been after 40 years. Here is to your continued success!

[@karenmcc2197]

Keep going. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@bobbyjames4300]

Keep going brother , I’m in the same boat..

[@KoriRuns]

It funny you mentioned the thing about training. I find that I typically cut out all alcohol when I'm training for a race -- and it's not even a conscious thing. Really interesting video. Congrats on trying to better yourself!

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you very much! Yes, it used to be the same for me. It was always the first thing to go and it wasn’t always done consciously 🙂

[@peterpoc2857]

Great video! Thanks for sharing. Greetings from Mexico! :)

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you so much! Greetings from Scotland :)

[@patrickwalker-nolan7617]

What a great video it’s very encouraging, no it’s inspiring, to listen to and watch. Thanks 🙏 I need all the inspiration I can get.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you so much! Wishing you all the very best.

[@2lineproductions]

Thank you for the info, it was great.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Most welcome. Thank you for your comment!

[@martinfildes2820]

Nice one mate. I’ve just begun my journey of no drinking after a life time of drinking. My method is the rule of one, and it works like a dream.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you very much and I wish you all the very best 👍

[@chesterxman]

Hi there. What is the rule of one?

[@DerekChristie]

Great video. I decided today to quit drinking for the exact same reasons. I don’t drink much anyway but running my wedding photography business and having a son with severe learning disabilities and the toll that takes on my wife means I often get severe anxiety attacks, especially after a drink. The last one just yesterday. I rarely drink at home as it’s more a lunch bottle of wine thing but I’m done. I’m in east Lothian so it was also lovely to see north Berwick and Edinburgh shots. Hope all is well. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you so much! Very interested to hear your story and from what I’ve heard, it’s not uncommon. Wishing you all the very best and many thanks again for your kind comment.

[@scottjackson163]

People do assume when they hear that you don’t drink that you either had or have a problem with alcohol. In fact, such people are usually correct. However, the nature and degree of the “problem” can vary considerably from one person to another. You do not have to have in your background a DUI, an alcohol related job loss, a diagnosis of liver disease, or a trip to rehab to justify a divorce from alcohol.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

I totally agree with this. It's a shame that the default assumption is that you must have a problem with alcohol if you don't drink it. I'm coming up for two years without drinking now and that is always what people think.

[@dimarks444]

I never started drinking and hate people assuming that I had a problem controlling my use of it. I wonder why people drink at all. It tastes horrible. People look and do foolish things. They get in unsafe situations and put others in danger too. I never succumbed to peer pressure and thus, felt the need to drink. That is a flaw I see in people. People See that as a social flaw in me but I refuse to engage in cultural activities that make no sense and are actually harmful.

[@MegaUnwetter]

I was also able to control my alcohol consumption well and only drank a few beers on the weekends, but I decided to stop anyway because I had already noticed increased anxiety and was less resilient in stressful Situations. I didn't know why until I found out more about alcohol and decided to stop completely after a few weeks I actually noticed an improvement in these areas

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

@@MegaUnwetter I'm really interested to hear this. It seems as though this is far more common than people realise. Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@warriormanmaxx8991]

"I Don't Drink" leads some to the conclusion you were once an alcoholic. When a person responds, "I Don't Drink" ought to be enough to be offered anything else to drink, without passing negative judgment on the person !! If you belong to a social group that likes to meet at "Joe's Bar & Grille," then one decides "no more alcohol" ... watch what happens to those "social friends" !!

[@lesleyhumphreysjones5957]

10 weeks with no alcohol and i feel terrible, insomnia is horrible and brain fog is bad, i hope it passes soon.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

I hope you feel better soon. From experience, it's better to live a life without alcohol than with it, so stick with it!

[@grochef]

I watched this video thinking that you would have some reason to continue drinking because it didn't "change your life". I am delighted to have watched the video to hear your wonderful story. I too, would wake up with a booming heartbeat, sweats and panic. But, then, I would drink again and have the same experience. I have chosen that I have had enough. Thank you for being candid.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Many thanks! Yes, I am approaching three years alcohol free now and I’ve never really been tempted back. It’s always interesting to hear from people who have had a similar experience. Thank you for sharing your story. I wish you all the very best!

[@NCrdwlf]

I’m sleeping so much better , mood elevated . Mind clearer .

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Very interested to hear this. Well done you!

[@randomrebuilds]

Nicely done. From age 35-41 I would have one beer a night whilst winding down for the evening, then cut that down to weekends only. Now I have put away beer and enjoy a quality whiskey over ice on the weekends with a plan of no more than 2 in the evenings after dinner.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Many thanks and all the very best to you 👍

[@SteveW1985]

I also quit alcohol. I'm on month 5 and it was a challenge to begin but I rarely think about it now. I love the no hangovers and better sleep. I was stuck before when drinking but I feel like the shackles are off, even knowing the simplicity of being able to jump in my car and drive anytime I have too may sound like nothing but its a restriction that has gone. I spent so much money on wine it was crazy too. Anyway best of health to you and your family. Thanks for the vlog

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Many thanks for your comment and congratulations on reaching 5 months. I know how difficult it can be. Like you, I love the fact there are no restrictions for driving anywhere at any time! It makes life much more straightforward now. Keep up the good work! Thanks again 🙂

[@joanavicente5493]

Great video. Thanks.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you very much!

[@rickfredrick7969]

Thanks for the video

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you for taking the time to watch it!

[@David-cq6zx]

Great vid. Watching from West Lothian.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you very much!

[@rumidude]

Just a couple counter points. #1 Often alcohol is not the cause of anxiety and other issues, but is actually a symptom of anxiety. By quitting alcohol consumption, one is taking control of one's life, which is likely the reason anxiety lessens. Anything one does to become intentional in one's life reduces anxiety. #2 If a person wakes up with a hangover more than once or twice a year, that person has an alcohol problem regardless of whether that person considers they "don't drink a lot." If a person has alcohol stupor the next morning, they have an alcohol problem. Every individual is different. I am happy for your improvement of life and hope it continues.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you for your considered comment. I really appreciate the time you have taken to watch the video and respond.

[@BookClubDisaster]

I’ve had similar things happen to me at times after I drink. Either I can’t sleep or I’ll wake up at 3 in the morning and feel awful and panicky. One of the reasons I haven’t drank in 2023

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Very interesting to hear this and thank you for sharing your experiences. All the very best to you 👍

[@Pokertyme2009]

I quit on 07/23 just last week. Don't tell anyone yet, so far only you and my wife know. Like you every time I get the urge I just have to remind myself of why I quit. At 75 my primary reason was the health benefits. Off we go !

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Your secret is safe with me! Thank you taking the time to comment and I wish you all the very best 👍

[@tjfSIM]

The videography and editing in this video is stunning! I was a bit confused about the message though - from 3:20 you pretty much set out the myriad of ways in which quitting alcohol did indeed change your life. It improved your sleep, gave you mental clarity and focus, you don't have hangovers or panic attacks etc. It therefore seems somewhat contradictory to then say it hasn't changed your life! I wonder if you what you meant is that you don't miss it? Nevertheless I really enjoyed the video and I do recognise and share your motivation for quitting. The anxiety, paranoia and terrible hangovers that follow drinking were the main drivers for me going alcohol free for 2 years. I'm about to embark on that journey again so found your video helpful and inspiring :)

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate you taking the time to comment. Last week @sergigevp made a comment on this video and summed it up nicely when they said, "Giving up alcohol won't change one's life magically. It will make it easier indeed and then it's up to the person how to live further." I guess this is a nice summary of what I am grasping at with the title. Thanks again and best of luck!

[@tjfSIM]

@@Swiftfilmsuk Aah, yes that does make total sense. By quitting, you were giving yourself the best possible chance to succeed and thrive, but it's still up to you to take the opportunities and actually make the changes. Perfect.

[@gokhantoksoy2826]

perfect ... thank you !!!

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

🙏

[@one100billneoone4]

November 27, 2020 was the last time I had an alcoholic drink. Was never a heavy drinker either. My turning point was that there is no health benefits to drinking. Plus, spending my hard earned money to consume poison…no thanks. It’s been wonderful and 100% agree on having mental clarity and quality sleep.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Your story is very similar to mine and we stopped around the same time for very the same reasons. I have since heard of a few people doing exactly the same thing. Makes total sense! Thanks again 👍

[@tightlondon]

The one good thing that alcohol did for me and honestly that was putting a little weight on , being 6.2 and weighing only 9 stone and it always knocked my confidence , I'm 41 and only been drinking for 4 years and plan on stopping soon I'm now at 13 stone and loving it

[@manga1682]

i too havent drank a lot of alcohol to finally quit it altogether when i lost the charm for it now in my late forties. So I need to deal with a very fuzzy WHY whenever it gets very tempting to grab a drink, but somehow i am going on with it for last 7 months. Moreover the discipline i wished to inculcate in my daily life has not been any easier simply because i have quit alcohol. The biggest positive though s the confidence that i can change myself for the better.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Well done you! It’s interesting how you can get on a roll with abstaining. Once you get to a certain milestone you just want to keep going so as not to break the streak. That’s where I am currently. Approaching the two year mark and I’m really keen to get there. Once I’m there I’ll see if I can get to three years. We’ll see. But very well done you! I hope you can keep it going.

[@filthyshamrock]

I stopped drinkimg alcohol at the end of 2022. I was convinced I was an alcoholic at the time. After 14 months sober I realize my life hasn't really changed that much. I haven't had a hard time staying away from. I think a drink would be nice, but then again I don't have a problem with it. I did learn that I have BPD and that explained a lot of the dysfunction in my life there's a big push with AA that can morph almost anyone who consumes alcohol to be a problem drinker. I think mental health is far more important and I don't necessarily think being extreme in anything is ever the answer. At least it wasn't for me. I realized I don't understand addiction but had an interesting time exploring my relationship with alcohol.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Best of luck to you my friend. Thank you for your comment.

[@gavbridges]

Thanks for this 👍👏

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you!

[@michelled219]

I’m from Dunoon but grew up in California. Great post😊

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you very much! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🙏

[@stevenredpath6397]

Top man, good video 👍

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you so much! 🙏

[@enope5674]

Same about the other people! When I stopped I would go on dates and women would think all sorts of things, usually to end up in no second date. Which is fine, I found the love of my life and I'll never look back. Almost 5 years sober.

[@kemalguclukol]

What you said is 💯 true 👍 great video.. I to have stopped drinking alcohol altogether and I feel great

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you very much! And congratulations to you. Keep it going!

[@pacmanmum]

Thankyou for this video ,I had few sips of alcohol as a kid then got little bit tipsy at 11 then at 12 got really drunk on cider , then up till about age 33 on and off drinking , then got more into regular drink , had some big sessions and hundreds of nights like on your video when u said about the panic , so since 2018 I’ve only had a break for 48 days after drinking two or three times a week or once a week on average ,,but this year 2023 none , my liver has been liver disease reversed ,and then borderline liver function then ok and just now borderline again ,so I am now fed up with weekly hangover and all the horrible symptoms that go with it , so far it’s been 14 days ,and last week I did feel flat in the brain ,but now I’m feeling good that I’m not drinking,I will not do it again ,sleeps better ,nothing great has happened but not hungover and sleeping better ,and bit more motivated to get things done ,hangover symptoms were,if bad ,vomiting,headache,anxiety,bad stomach,restless,depression,extreme fatigue,arm ache,twitching,heart palpitations,fast heart,no sleep,hot flushes,one eye more blurred,reflux ,can’t drink morning cuppa as nausea.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Well done you! Keep up the good work and I wish you all the very best 👍

[@pacmanmum]

@@Swiftfilmsuk thankyou,:)

[@marklutz8499]

Alcohol and drugs are just a symptom of my disease. I was an addict years before I ever picked up.

[@scarlett-fg2hh]

Bravo! My anxiety is almost gone since I stopped.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you! And very well done to you too 👍

[@hutts72]

Great video - 6mths in to my own Sobriety journey so this video was helpful! But have to ask, why does the title say did 'NOT" change your life? Surely it did? It changed for the better no?

[@sergigevp]

I really like the idea in this video. About giving up alcohol won't change one's life magically. It will make it easier indeed and then it's up to the person how to live further.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you very much! This is exactly the idea I was trying to convey in the video. Others have accused me of using a clickbait title, but you have neatly summarised my intention! Thanks again 👍

[@LifeProducersofNewJerseyLLC]

Drinking is over rated. I just have issues with AA and others telling people that they can never drink again. Also, if you abused something, that does not mean that everyone is going to abuse it as well. But drinking gets stupid and dumb after awhile if you do it too much and those people that stop feel liberated. Its that liberation that we see in videos like these. Keep up the good work.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

I agree! It's a very sensitive subject and you should never tell someone else what they should or shouldn't do. It is interesting to see different opinions on this subject though. I have since hit the two year mark of not drinking and my initial thoughts have changed a bit. I hope to do a follow up video about this soon.Thanks again!

[@brettcordes3602]

AA does not “tell” anybody anything. They don’t advertise or recruit. An alcoholic has a disease, and is completely different from even a heavy drinker. An alcoholic cannot drink at all and expect to stay sober long term.

[@LifeProducersofNewJerseyLLC]

@@brettcordes3602 If you go to AA they will entice you to stand up and say that you are an alcoholic in front of people. Its par for the course. From there its 12 step. Don't get me wrong, its a good thing for most chronic drinkers, but not all need this level. Dump the disease talk. It behavior all the way. Disease talk sets up victimization which leads to binging.

[@larry1824]

If you're in a room full of people who have lost jobs marriages houses money done jail time because of alcohol and drugs think deeply about what you're hearing. You can drink if you choose but you must realise the trouble just down the road. It can happen to you

[@maxmaxed2887]

LOVE not drinking. So much money saved and feel so much better!

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Absolutely! 👍

[@a.nonymouse]

A few years without wasting money on alcohol will certainly change your financial situation, depending on how much you drink.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Absolutely! Another very good reason for avoiding the drink.

[@redbone8844]

3rd day I’m up early feeling good even feeling lighter I called a friend I used to drink 🍺 with and he couldn’t remember anything I told him last night! 😢

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Best of luck to you 👍

[@nihaz2060]

thank you!

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

And thank you too!

[@nihaz2060]

still sober! Thanks again mate, hope life is treating you well

[@dg9015]

My anxiety goes through the roof after drinking alcohol i wake up early hours with distressing thoughts

[@juggalo9097]

Very good video. Everything was well stated. I just don't understand the title of the video because quitting drinking seemed to, in fact, have a positive impact on your life.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you! Others have commented on this too. I guess it hasn’t changed my life in the same way it has for others, such as those that I met through one year no beer.

[@amyshomesteadanimals]

I want to quit drinking alcohol so bad that I feel like my life will be over if I become sober. I will have accomplished all I've ever wanted. I want it so bad.😭

[@jimyost2585]

I totally agree. I'm 76 years old now and I started drinking when I was sixteen years old, and since I started drinking I've quit drinking four different times and quitting drinking never did improve my quality of life. If anything it diminished it as alcohol gives relief from pain (emotional pain especially). I think it's more than interesting that Jesus' first miracle was turning water into wine, and a lot of it, over 100 gallons (NOT 100 bottles, 100 gallons, which according to our measurements today equals 500 bottles). And he did it at a wedding which is symbolic as a wedding is a happy event. The Lord knew what he was doing when he did that. He wanted to send the message that wine can bring happiness.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

That is really interesting. And you make a very good point about Jesus! For thousands of years, wine has been known to be used for celebrations and to have a good time. If you can keep a handle on it and it doesn't affect your life in an adverse way, it makes sense to use it to have a good time. Unfortunately for me, it comes with a caveat and I just don't believe it's worth it. Many thanks again!

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

@@11235but 😂

[@DavidWIlliams-cu4wu]

Mohamed Salah can walk on water!!!!

[@warriormanmaxx8991]

@@DavidWIlliams-cu4wu - whoever in Hell "Mohamed Salah" is ... certainly CANNOT walk on or in any water !!

[@obbhoy]

​​@@DavidWIlliams-cu4wue didn't against Madrid last week

[@joesuarez3695]

Quit drinking since my beloved dog Cloey died over 7 months ago. I drank moderately for about 40 years and don't miss it at all. I drink non-alchoholic beer because of the taste. It is refreshing to watch other former moderate drinkers to express their story, as there are plenty of stories of problem or alcoholic drinkers.

[@HandbrakeBiscuit]

Your friend who drinks: "You're boring" You: nonchalantly juggles three flaming torches...

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

😂

[@chrissylater5863]

I agree with all you say, sobriety is tops🌻

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

❤️

[@tekay44]

i was a binger. 44 years sober. it can be done.

[@Ken_oh545]

I once had an alcohol problem, I was in a hotel room with a bottle of beer and no opener.

[@danilasad]

One of the first symptoms I had, was panick attack.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

From what I am learning, this seems to be quite common.

[@Goddessofelegance]

I haven’t drank alcohol in 9 weeks

[@PAE47]

excellent 👌

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you very much!

[@bazejhordyk3971]

I'm 25 , this Year I've decided to fully quit.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Very best of luck to you! 👍

[@pizzamanmep]

Alcohol, the only drug that you need to justify for NOT taking it… That tells you a lot about this alcoholic society

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Spot on! It's crazy when you think about it.

[@ianstewartorr8455]

Acute pancreatitis nearly killed me I’ve been nearly eleven years sober I don’t want that pain again I was talking to a woman who had pancreatitis and she said that pain is worse than child birth greetings from Scotland 🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Many congratulations on your sobriety! Good health to you Sir 👍

[@ianstewartorr8455]

@@Swiftfilmsuk thanks the only way I’ll beat the alcohol problem is to die a sober man and I’m on that sober pathway to achieve that goal.Greetings from Scotland 🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@ivosanta5553]

I have been sober for 3 weeks and except improved regeneration after working out and faster thinking, I dont see any other benefits. I am eventually going to get drunk again regularly, however I will significantly decrease the frequency of drinking because of its toxic side effects.

[@jamesasc7709]

Can anyone help share a story of someone who successfully quit drinking without becoming a runner? I really struggle with exercise, I don't get a kick out of exercise and just get really anxious about it.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Ah, sorry about that. If it helps, I became a runner before I quit drinking. Quitting drinking definitely helps with the running, but it's not a prerequisite. Just sharing my own experience, but the benefits of quitting drinking go far beyond any sporting / cardiovascular improvement. Best of luck to you!

[@bluedolphin5792]

Anxiety, depression, dreading waking up and taking on the day, health problems. What are the pluses ?

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

I can't argue with any of that. I have had good times in the past mind. If you're able to moderate and it doesn't affect you negatively then there are positives to be had.

[@TroyGrey]

I quit drinking over six weeks ago after decades of almost daily drinking. This was because of panic attacks too. Yet, I still experience anxiety and panic attacks. I wonder if there are more people who experience this even after they quit drinking for it makes me feel so alone. Does it take more time for my brain to adapt without alcohol?

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you for sharing your experiences. If I’m honest, I don’t know the answer to your question, but I can tell you from experience, that if you are prone to anxiety, quitting alcohol is only going to help with this. Drinking will never make things better. Keep up the good work and all the very best to you.

[@dirkhuman760]

Alcohol is never the problem! A person that blames a gun for shooting something is simply detached from reality. The problem is wanting attention from others!

[@user-lv8yf2hh9q]

Its called moderation. I drink occasionally and i am fine. Taking a sip of a beer is not a death sentence. If you are doing kegstands every night, that is different. Self control is the key. Dont kick yourself for having a beer. Self hatred is the devil

[@lovetheNorml]

Never understood how people could drink like that. I've tried many times. And still at 49 years old a 6 pack can last weeks sometimes months in the fridge. Cigarettes i quit 3 years ago but replaced it with pot.oh well guess we all have a vise to deal with.

[@GDMan-fb1jx]

Cheers 🥂 Mate with Sparkling Water, much healthier.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Cheers to you too! Have a wonderful, alcohol-free Christmas 🎄

[@pwk22]

What does a panic attack have to do with drinking a glass of wine, or drinking at all? I'm not understanding the connection.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Anxiety can be exacerbated by alcohol. There is a definite link. Others have commented on and experienced this too.

[@pwk22]

@@Swiftfilmsuk I'm no expert, but I don't see it. I would guess it would be the opposite; a glass of wine would tend to alleviate rather than exacerbate panic symptoms. But what do I know?

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

It’s not an uncommon belief. Those pre-disposed to anxiety or depression are more likely to be affected or triggered by it after consumption.

[@artspark7697]

Drinking suppresses the central nervous system the next day your heat often pounds or races as the CN bounces back.

[@sephiroth1234]

I've experienced alcohol induced anxiety many times. But always during the next day... severe anxiety. There’s a link between alcohol and anxiety.

[@paulmcconkey9304]

I like the video however why click bate with the video description. It did change your life ???

[@surrealisticworld995]

I got gastrits and i realized i needed a change 😢

[@octaviannitra1845]

I am also afraid to be for so long alone with my wife :))

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

😂

[@1dantown]

Quitting alcohol sometimes feels like winning the lottery. Your mileage may vary.

[@RichardKies]

Excellent video. I quit in 2017 one of the best things I’ve ever done. I also used to get panic attacks. Not anymore 🙏🏼

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you very much and congratulations to you for six years of not drinking. Very interested to hear that this resolved your issues with anxiety. Thank you for sharing!

[@sharm7774]

Trying to quit am at rock bottom atm don't know why I always relapse am fed up confuse don't know what to do again

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

I wish you the best of luck. I know it’s really hard. But it’s definitely worth persevering with.

[@herenowlife]

Doesn't feel like alcohol sounds like Mikey finned. Half a bottle. Some people react to the sulphites like that. It's not healthy though . But neither is chlorine or fluoride or sugar or

[@BlackRain_]

More likely the viagra that he took that night ;)

[@BahFelix5k]

Quitting alcohol did change this man's life. This video is mistitled. He said that he could be sure his confidence was genuine, it was easier to get up in the morning, and he is happy to be a better example for his children. I've watched a lot of videos with titles like 'I quit drinking for X amount of time, and this is how it changed my life' and the ones that illustrate a marked improvement in life/lifestyle are from those people with a more complex relationship with alcohol, be it social or addiction, or both. He clearly didn't have either of these issues.

[@Kdavi2612]

The title of the video has me thinking your were going to say you saw NO benefits from quitting alcohol

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Lots of benefits. But I wouldn’t describe them as life-changing compared to some people who have had problems with alcohol and then quit.

[@Tengrim916]

i got this about year now.. lots of struggle.. .. for me

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Well done you for sticking with it. I know it's not easy. But life is definitely better without it! 👍

[@mandavaler]

I was a kid last time i had a panic attack it was so bad i was hallucinating and because it was the early 2,000s and we lived in a rural fuckhole of a "town" my medical needs were passed off as me being dramatic. 😃

[@peanuthead7359]

I was a pretty heavy drinker from 21-26 and still would get drunk at least 1-2X if not more per month 27-28. I really slowed down from 29-30 had a couple nights out etc. Now I have maybe 1 drink every 2-3 months. Alcohol is truly the devil and my life has improved since I changed my habits. Nobody ever thought it was a problem because I was young and I was just on the weekends mostly. I cannot stand hangovers and how shitty I would feel after drinking and just how stupid I would feel about myself. I lost literally every friend I had because I discovered they were just drinking buddies. Life is good now!

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Many congratulations for turning things around. And thank you for sharing your own experiences. I wish you all the very best 👍

[@FuhqEwe]

I’m 34. I’ve lost every real friend I’ve had, and that’s why I drink. NHL cancer, AC pancreatic cancer, COVID, and a stroke that lead to a brain dead coma.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

I’m really sorry to hear about your situation. It sounds truly horrendous. I hope you can find purpose and happiness and genuinely wish you all the very best.

[@vallane2763]

I have not had a drink for 5 years.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Amazing achievement. Congratulations!

[@BEACHDUDE71]

108 days of no alcohol for me

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Well done you!

[@larvancioramos9748]

MODERATE consumption is the KEY. Enjoy a BEER is a delight

[@soccergalsara]

Erm If you drink once every 2-3 weeks socially , and quit , your life definteilt Does change . You loose 2-3 days post drinking . Sharpness mentally and physically, even if it’s just two drinks .

[@SuperTerminator50]

It certainly sounds like it has profoundly changed your life...for the better...

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

Thank you. I think that is probably true. Compared to a lot of people I have met, the change in my life hasn’t been quite as transformational. However, it has had really positive effects on my life. Thanks again!

[@Partoftheratpack]

Odd title when you list the changes for the best in the video

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

I guess I’m comparing my experience to others I have met, whose lives have been totally transformed by quitting alcohol. Yes, giving up alcohol has had many positive effects, but for me I wouldn’t say it has changed my life. I mention this in the video too.

[@joehill7837]

@Swiftfilms It's still an odd title. Have the many positive effects not changed your life since you didn't have them before you gave up alcohol.

[@Swiftfilmsuk]

@@joehill7837 Thank you for the feedback. Yes, there have been many positive changes as a result of stopping drinking, but would I say that this has changed my life? Not when I compare this to others I have met whose lives have been totally transformed by this.