Ep. 24: But, Am I an Alcoholic?

In this episode of The No More Wasted Days Podcast, hosts Sara and Heather explore the concept of alcohol labels, particularly challenging the stigma of being called an alcoholic. They introduce alternative terms such as sober, alcohol-free, in recovery, and Cali sober, emphasizing personal choice in how one identifies their relationship with alcohol. They discuss the significance of recognizing alcohol use disorder (AUD) as a more modern and less stigmatizing term than alcoholic. They also touch on the fluidity of recovery and the openness to change how one identifies with their alcohol use over time.    00:00 Welcome & Introductions: Meet Your Hosts Sara and Heather 04:49 Revisiting the Term 'Alcoholic': A Deep Dive 08:24 Exploring Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and Its Impacts 14:36 Personal Reflections: Identifying with AUD 19:13 Understanding Alcohol Use Through the DSM-5 21:38 Exploring Sobriety Terms: From Alcohol-Free to Recovery 22:07 The Journey of Embracing 'Alcohol-Free' 23:12 Understanding 'In Recovery' and Its Personal Journey 24:12 Navigating the 'Cali Sober' Lifestyle 28:55 Transitioning to a Book Club Discussion 30:10 Empowerment in Sobriety: Choosing Your Identity 34:08 Communicating Your Sobriety Journey to Others ************************************************   Looking for support on your alcohol free journey? Consider joining us in the Day Makers Community.  CLICK HERE for all the details. Want some 1-on-1 support on your alcohol free journey?  Work with Heather as your alcohol free coach.  CLICK HERE to start working with Heather today. ************************************************ Follow the podcast on Social Media: IG: @nomorewasteddays.pod   Follow Sara on Social Media: IG: @no_more_wasted_days TikTok: @no_more_wasted_days Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoMoreWastedDaysOfficial   Follow Heather on Social Media: IG: @accordingtohpg TikTok: @thealcoholfreecoach