Im a 29m who had their first acute Pancreatitis attack after a heavy week of drinking alcohol. It was a mild attack and I was told to just not drink alcohol ever again and id live a perfectly healthy life. For reference I live in Ireland which has a big drinking culture. This news was like the end of the world for me. I was in hospital for a week.
2 months on and ive never felt better. It turns out you dont need alcohol to enjoy yourself. Im sleeping better, eating better, maintaining relationships better and overall just a more positive person.
The killer is there is apart of me who just craves a pint of Guinness or a beer. I went for a check up this week and they told me to proceed with caution and they didnt rule out not drinking again but that i can potentially drink moderately on special occasions. Even though they recommend to still not drink. Im going to stay off it for a year and then I can decide myself what to do.
Just looking for advice if anyone had a similar experience?
Overall I just want to say that it gets easier as the weeks go on and maybe this was a blessing in disguise. Even though their is still a devil on my shoulder wanting to drink again.
Edit - I just want to thank everyone for their lovely and insightful comments. Its a wonderful community this subreddit is. I am going to set a goal of being sober for 1 year and maybe I'll see then if I want to enjoy a drink every now and then. Ive been out with my friends in pubs and just been drinking coffee or blackcurrant. I've come to the realisation that I dont need alcohol to enjoy myself and friends have even mentioned how they are proud of me and that you wouldn't notice i wasnt drinking. I think I just wanted some reassurance from you guys. Appreciate the support and advice !