Charlotte DWI Law Blog - Drunk Driving, NC DWI

August 8, 2020

08 Aug 2020

Post-Rehab Life: Helpful Steps

Completing a rehab program is a massive step in the right direction of a sober life. However, many people will wonder what they should do now in their post-rehab life. Taking some of these first steps can help you ensure you get your new life started properly…

Post-Rehab Life: What To Do

Make new friends

One good way to start your post-rehab life is by making new friends. It’s possible that many of your old friends were only your friends because of you both had a similar addiction. Or, it could be that they aren’t a positive influence. Instead of supporting you, they may try and tempt you to relapse and go back to the “old you.”

As you’d expect, these are the last type of people what you want in your life. Instead, it’s good to start looking for some new, sober friends. Being around those who know exactly what you’ve gone through is great for helping you stick to your sobriety while also knowing you have people who will support you along the way.

Keep attending meetings

It’s also important that you keep up with any additional treatment you’re receiving as part of your post-rehab life. As you adjust to your new life, you may find it isn’t all that easy to adapt. This is where the continuing treatment will come in handy.

What’s important is that you don’t skip out on these meetings. As you spend more and more time sober, you may think that you don’t need this sort of support anymore. However, until you can really be sure you’re back on your feet, it’s best to keep using it. Don’t be afraid to come back to it either if you find yourself really struggling down the line!

Focus on mental health

Addiction isn’t just a physical matter. In fact, a large part of it is also a mental matter. Returning to an old routine can be stressful, and this stress can cause cravings to develop. Therefore, it’s key to focus on your mental health in your post-rehab life.

Try to take some time each day to relax and unwind. Having these moments can really help reduce your stress and anxiety levels. You can also try exercising. Science has shown that exercise helps to improve our moods and make us feel more optimistic, which is very important for someone coming off of an addiction.

in Addiction, alcoholism /by Kelsey Keeton/#permalink

August 5, 2020

05 Aug 2020

Alcoholic Types: Common Subtypes

Nearly 96% of those who are struggling with an alcohol addiction believe they don’t need to seek out treatment. A large reason for this is because they don’t think they’re a “stereotypical alcoholic.” However, there’s actually many different alcoholic types. Knowing some of the most common ones can help better put your usage into perspective…

Alcoholic Types: Understand The Signs

Young adult

Out of the different alcoholic types, the young adult subtype is the largest. 32% of those struggling with alcohol abuse fall under this subtype. The age range for this subtype included those just under the drinking age up to those in their early 20’s.

Most of those in this group tend to be college students who find themselves in a culture which encouraged heavy drinking. In fact, 90% of the alcohol drank by this group is done via binge drinking. Due to this kind of culture and social pressure, those in this group tend to not get the help they need because they believe their drinking is “normal” form someone their age.

Young antisocial

The second largest of the alcoholic types is the young antisocial subtype. Much like the young adult group, this subtype also includes those in their early- to mid-20’s who started drinking at a young age. However, unlike that group, they don’t drink because others are doing so. Rather, many of them will drink to try and socialize easier.

Usually, those in this group have something such as anxiety or depression, which makes it hard for them to socialize. As a result, they’ll drink to feel relaxed and try and “fit in” better. Others may use alcohol as a way for them to self-medicate. Either way, it tends to lead to heavy drinking and an addiction.

Functional

The hardest of the alcoholic types to recognize are the functional ones. On the surface, they appear to have everything together. They may have a good job, a family, and are well-educated. As a result, it’s easy for others to look the other way if they think that the person in question may be drinking just a bit too much.

It’s because of those factors that it’s hard for those in this group to get help. In fact, they themselves may even believe that there isn’t anything wrong with their drinking. This is why it usually requires those around them to realize that their drinking isn’t healthy, and encourage them to seek some treatment.

in alcoholism, Drinking Dangers /by Kelsey Keeton/#permalink

August 1, 2020

01 Aug 2020

Staying Sober at a Wedding: The Challenges

Weddings can be filled with opportunities for alcohol, but it is very possible for you to go to a wedding sober. Sure, there are open bars, cocktail hours, toasts, but it is possible. You just have to go in with a plan and stick with it, and you will be able to make it through the night.

Staying Sober at a Wedding: Create a Game Plan

Grab a Non-Alcoholic Drink

When you don’t have a drink in your hand, you will most likely be offered one. If you are trying to be sober at a wedding, try and be proactive by already having a non-alcoholic drink in your hand. This will take away some of the anxiety you may have about being offered a drink by a friend, server or another guest. If you are nervous about standing out, just order a drink that could pass as a cocktail. Ginger ale, orange juice, and sparkling water could all pass as an alcoholic drink.

Bring a Sober Date

If you are able to invite a date, try and bring someone who will be sober with you. As the night goes on, and more people are drinking, staying sober at a wedding can be difficult and draining. This person can help keep you accountable. Also, this person will be fun to hang out with when everyone else has had too much to drink.

Tell the Servers

When a server comes to refill your glass or pour a champagne toast, just tell them that you would rather have a non-alcoholic drink. If you are worried about being tempted, you could even let them privately know that ahead of time. This way they won’t end up offering you one in the first place. If the alcohol is just sitting at the table bothers you, excuse yourself to go to the restroom or for a walk. You may even check out the appetizer table and grab a few bites to snack on. These are just a few things to consider if you are staying sober at a wedding.

Leaving

If you find the temptations to be too strong to ensure you stay sober at a wedding, just leave. It is not worth risking your sobriety by staying at the wedding. Pop by the bride and groom and tell them congratulations if you have not already. Then, you can sneak out. People leave weddings early all of the time, so this won’t look unusual.

There are certainly ways to stay sober at a wedding. No matter if you’re recently sober or have been sober for many years, you can do it. There will be temptations, and it may be challenging, but it is doable. Just make a game plan and use these tips, and you will be able to make it through the night!

in alcoholism, drinking /by Robert Reeves/#permalink

July 29, 2020

29 Jul 2020

Post-Treatment Support: Stay Sober

Treatment centers can be very helpful for when you want to get sober. However, staying sober after you leave isn’t always easy. That’s why you’ll want to seek out some good post-treatment support. Doing so will ensure you can maintain your sobriety well into the future…

Post-Treatment Support: Different Types

Therapy

Therapy is a very useful resource to use as part of your recovery process. Therefore, it’s no surprise that it’s also a great form of post-treatment support. Addiction tends to go beyond just a physical dependence. Many times, there’s some sort of other reason behind why a person may develop an addiction.

A therapist will help you understand what these triggers may for you and how you can overcome them. For instance, maybe you notice you have cravings come on when you get stressed. Your therapist can work you through some better, healthier ways to manage this stress so you can resist that urge. Now, not only can you keep clean, but start to make other positive changes in your life as well.

Check-ups

While your mental health is very important, so is your physical health. Even short-term addictions can lead to possible health issues. That’s why frequent health check-ups are also a very important form of post-treatment support.

Your doctor will be able to make sure that you’re keeping healthy while you recover. That way, should they notice any issues, they can help you take care of them sooner rather than later. Ensuring that you are physically healthy is key for maintaining a good, healthy post-treatment lifestyle.

Social circles

Your post-treatment support doesn’t have to come from just professional resources. In fact, your friends can be an excellent source of help. It isn’t uncommon to feel bored, lonely, or even helpless once you begin a sober life. However, your friends can change things for you.

Being with friends allows you to do something together and enjoy yourself. Plus, it’s great for taking your mind off of any cravings or negative thoughts. You’ll also be able to take that money you save from not buying drugs and alcohol, and instead put it towards new experiences with those close to you.

in Addiction, alcoholism /by Robert Reeves/#permalink

July 25, 2020

25 Jul 2020

DWI Checkpoint: What to Expect

The chances of you coming across a DWI checkpoint at sometime in your life are high. Therefore, it is important to know what to expect if you come across one. These simple steps are the very basics of what you should expect.

DWI Checkpoint: Basic Guidelines

Stop

This may seem obvious, but the first thing you need to do at a DWI checkpoint is stop. However, it does happen where people try and avoid stopping. They may worried or have something to hide. For example, they may have drugs or an open container of alcohol. They also may be concerned about being too impaired to be on the road.

If you fail to stop at a checkpoint or turn around before you get to it, the police could come after you. Turning around will make you look suspicious and could also lead to additional charges. Just make sure to stop at the checkpoint.

Getting to the Checkpoint

Usually a DWI checkpoint will be a quick stop. You will likely only have to just show your driver’s license and registration. They may also ask you a few questions, and ask to see your insurance. Try and have your documents ready so that you aren’t fumbling for them when it’s your turn. If you’re fumbling, it may make you appear to be impaired. As long as everything checks out, you should be able to keep on moving, but do not leave until given permission. However, if the police officer feels he or she needs to investigate further, you may be asked to get out of your car.

Remain Respectful

The process of getting stopped and waiting at a DWI checkpoint can be frustrating. No one likes to have their day disrupted. Even though it may take a bit of your time, be polite, respectful and cooperative. This will make the entire process go quicker and smoother. Everyone wants to be treated with respect. This applies to police officers as well.

There are many other things to consider at a DWI checkpoint that are outside the scope of this blog. However, these few steps will let you know the basics of what to expect if you ever encounter one of these stops.

in DUI & DWI, Felony DUI /by Robert Reeves/#permalink

July 22, 2020

22 Jul 2020

College Campuses: Underage Drinking

The legal drinking age is 21 yet you will see rampant drinking all over college campuses. Underage drinking is a huge problem at colleges all across America. The average undergraduate student is between 18 and 22 years old, leaving many college students younger than the legal drinking age.

College Campuses: Consequences of Underage Drinking

Academic Concerns

College students across all college campuses can fall behind in their classes as a result of drinking. They may miss class due to feeling hungover. Also, they could oversleep from a late night out partying. College students who are binge drinking may fall behind in class, do poorly on schoolwork, and get lower grades.

Assaults

Drinking leads to an increased number of violent and sexual assaults on college campuses. One study showed that about 696,000 students between the ages of 18 and 24 are assaulted by another student who has been drinking.Also, about 97,000 students between the ages of 18 and 24 report experiencing alcohol-related sexual assault or date rape.

Binge Drinking

Oftentimes, being away on college campuses is the first time these students have been exposed to full freedom. This may be the first time they get to routinely make decisions without their parents around. Social activities and sporting events are common places for alcohol to be available. This can lead to an increased chance for drinking. Many of these students fall into peer pressure and begin drinking.

Many people view alcohol use as part of the “college experience”. Since these students want to fit in and make new friends, they keep drinking without thinking about the potential consequences. For these reasons, it’s not uncommon for college kids to binge drink.

Legal Trouble

Since most college kids are under the legal drinking age, it is possible for them to get in trouble for underage drinking. Another issue on college campuses is drinking and driving. Sometimes these students will drive drunk after leaving a party or a bar, which can lead to DUI or injury.

In short, drinking is very common on college campuses. Most college students are not even 21 yet. There can be consequences for students who are drinking. These range from academic issues all the way to legal trouble.

in Drinking Dangers, Drinking Safety /by Robert Reeves/#permalink

July 18, 2020

18 Jul 2020

Addiction Indicators: Common Signs

When it comes to drinking and using opioids, one has to be careful about their intake. These substances a very addictive, and sometimes it can be hard to notice when an addiction is starting. However, keeping an eye out for addiction indicators can help you see when your usage gets risky. That way, you can make changes before something more serious forms…

Addiction Indicators: What You Can Spot

Obsessing over usage

One of the common addiction indicators is when you obsess over taking the substance. Now, the important thing to note what “obsessing” means. For instance, there’s nothing wrong with looking forward to a drink on the weekend. Same goes with making sure you take your prescription on time as your doctor told you.

Instead, things become a problem when you want to do nothing but take the substance all the time. In fact, you might start getting worried that you won’t have enough for your cravings. As a result, you may try and stock up, or begin looking for ways to get extra money fast in order to buy more of the substance.

Higher tolerance

A higher tolerance is also another of the addiction indicators you’ll want to watch for. As you drink, you may notice that the amount you usually drink doesn’t have the same impact. Instead, it takes more alcohol to create a similar feeling. The same can also happen with your prescriptions.

This means that your body is getting used to the substance. As a result, it’ll take more until you begin to notice its effects. This is quite dangerous because you could end up taking an unhealthy dose by accident. It’s safer to either take a break from drinking or to contact your doctor about your prescription depending on your tolerance.

Lying about & hiding usage

Most people aren’t too defensive when someone asks them if they drink. The same goes for if they were to ask them if they take any sort of medicine. This may change, though, if they feel like their usage is a problem. Therefore, instead of being honest, they’ll lie about how much they drink or take.

In fact, it could get to the point where they try and hide their usage altogether. Both lying and hiding usage are pretty apparent addiction indicators. If you already worry about what others would say, then it’s clear you know that there may be an issue with your consumption.

in Addiction, Drug Addiction /by Robert Reeves/#permalink

July 15, 2020

15 Jul 2020

Quitting Cold Turkey: Possible Risks

When you decide that you want to get sober, you may try and stop right then and there. However, quitting cold turkey can be a bit risky. Knowing the potential dangers can help you better prepare and reassess your strategy…

Quitting Cold Turkey: Know The Dangers

Physical risks

It doesn’t take long for you to feel the effects of quitting cold turkey. On average, alcohol withdrawal symptoms first begin appearing eight hours after your last drink. They’ll then continue to peak for about 2-3 days, with most of them going away after a week or so.

Usually, you’ll notice the physical effects first. This can include sudden shifts in body temperature, headaches, and nausea. You could also start finding it hard to eat or drink water, develop a rapid heartbeat, and begin shaking uncontrollably. In very rare cases, you may even experience seizures!

Mental risks

Quitting cold turkey means you need to be prepared for mental symptoms as well. For a lot of people, they’ll become very irritable and brash. They won’t think about what they’re saying, or who they’re saying it to. Instead, the withdrawal will make them overly hostile to pretty much everyone.

You may also feel very depressed and anxious during this time. It can become hard to remember things too, which can make you feel even more frustrated. Combined with the physical symptoms, you want to make sure you’re ready to quit drinking so suddenly.

What you can do

Should you decide that quitting cold turkey is what you want to do, take steps to get ready for those risks. Try to ensure you’ll be able to rest as you sober up and have all the necessary supplies, so you won’t have to go out. Make sure your friends and family are also able to help you. Of course, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention should you feel you need it.

However, you might want to consider going to a treatment facility instead. These places are will ensure you get sober in a healthy and safe way. Plus, you’ll also learn ways to keep sober when you leave. That way, you not only can get clean, but you’ll be better prepared to stay that way in the days to come.

in alcoholism, Drinking Safety /by Robert Reeves/#permalink

July 11, 2020

11 Jul 2020

Dining Out While Sober: What To Do

As you begin to get sober, there’s going to be some changes that you’ll need to make in your day-to-day life. One of the toughest ones can be dining out while sober. However, there are some ways you can enjoy a meal out while avoiding a drink…

Dining Out While Sober: Pull It Off

Prepare yourself

Before you try dining out while sober, it’s helpful to prepare yourself. A big part of getting sober is avoiding being around alcohol. As you go back out, you’ll have to be ready to see other people drinking. Some places may also offer you a drink to go with your meal too.

Therefore, try and have a basic script to follow if someone does offer you a drink. That way, you can easily decline without being rude or panicking. Instead of alcohol, opt for something non-alcoholic, like a water or soda, to help keep your mind occupied.

Lean on your support network

Dining out while sober can be pretty simple when you’re by yourself. All you’ll want to do is avoid places which serve alcohol. However, there may not be times when you can to this. For instance, maybe you want some variety, or have to go somewhere for a birthday or get-together. In these cases, it helps to bring some support with you.

Those friends and family who have been supporting you can still help you out now. Here, they may choose not to drink to show their support for you. They can also help keep you grounded and shift your focus away from drinking. Having people right there to reassure you is always nice when you begin to feel stressed.

Watch your food choice

If you’re dining out while sober, you have to be a bit more careful about your food selection. In general, most hot dishes which use alcohol shouldn’t be a problem. This is because the actual cooking process burns away the alcohol itself.

However, cold dishes may still contain some alcohol. Even if it’s a minor amount, you still don’t want to consume any be accident. Therefore, always make sure to ask if you’re unsure about whether or not a dish has any alcohol in it.

in alcoholism /by Robert Reeves/#permalink

July 8, 2020

08 Jul 2020

Going Out While Pregnant: What Can You Drink?

If you’re going out while pregnant, you may not want to just sip water all night. Luckily, there are plenty of non-alcoholic alternatives that you can partake in. Whether you’re not ready to tell your friends you’re pregnant, or just want to feel like you’re able to still indulge, without the alcohol, there are some great options available.

Going Out While Pregnant: Drink Options at a Bar

Non-alcoholic Beer

You won’t be partaking in beer while going out if you’re pregnant, but there are non-alcoholic options available. Heineken 0.0, Carlsberg 0.0% and Brooklyn Brewery Special Effects are two of the many non-alcoholic beers out there. This way you can get the taste of drinking a beer without having the alcohol.

Mocktails

There are so many fun mocktails you can have if you’re going out while pregnant. Mocktails are the non-alcoholic versions of cocktails. Some options include a mocktail mule, virgin mojitos, and virgin margaritas. You can ask a bartender to make just about any drink “virgin” if you want.

Another great staple is tonic water with lime… no one has to know there is no gin mixed in. Also, a Rum and Coke (minus the rum of course) is another great way to hide that you’re not actually drinking if you’re not ready to tell others you are pregnant.

Kombucha: Proceed with Caution

Some breweries and bars serve non-alcoholic kombucha. It is high in probiotics, B-vitamins, and amino acids. While it is great for your immune system, digestive system and overall health, there is much debate on whether kombucha is safe to drink during pregnancy. This is because most kombucha is unpasteurized and can contain a higher-than-recommended level of caffeine.

If you’re going out while you’re pregnant, it may be best to avoid kombucha even though it can be found in non-alcoholic versions. It is not worth the risk of something did happen.

Your social life doesn’t stop because you’re pregnant!

Although you may end up being the designated driver for the night, you can still enjoy some tasty beverages along with everyone else. With non-alcoholic beers, sodas and mocktails, there are plenty of options out there for you. However, be mindful of what you are drinking, as not all non-alcoholic drinks are automatically safe during pregnancy.

in Drinking Safety, Going Out Safety /by Robert Reeves/#permalink