A Doctor’s Story of Alcohol Misuse and Recovery
I graduated from nursing school and then several years later, graduated medical school and residency. When trying to focus and meet a goal, I wouldn’t drink alcohol despite the stress I felt. However, when that period of abstinence was complete, I would relieve the stress, anxiety, and depression I felt with alcohol. Little did I know that the depressant effects of the alcohol were largely contributing to my stress and anxiety.
Once I began practicing medicine, I had a busy call schedule. I remember I met a friend for lunch whom I hadn’t seen in a while and we had a glass of sparkling wine. I had planned to consume only one drink, because I was on call later that evening, but ended up drinking all afternoon.
The Turning Point
When I presented for my call shift, I was intoxicated. My colleague, who I was relieving, met me at the elevator, recognized my impairment and stopped me. This was the point when I started my journey to recovery.
I knew very little about alcoholism, alcohol use disorder or the Nebraska Licensee Assistance Program (NE LAP). I met Michelle, NE LAP Coordinator, and completed a 90-day inpatient recovery program well-known for the substance use treatment of health professionals. After the three months of treatment, I remained involved with the LAP, the Licensee Support Group (LSG) and the recovery community. These programs saved me. I continue to be involved and have faith that I will continue to stay substance-free thanks to the support of these programs.
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