Chapter 1: Key Terms in the Sober World

In the realm of sobriety, terminology plays a crucial role in how individuals identify and express their relationship with alcohol. Words like "sober-curious" or "teetotaler" may seem unfamiliar, yet they hold significant meaning for those navigating their sobriety journey. Society increasingly values the importance of precise language, as it helps individuals articulate their experiences and identities. It’s essential for people to feel acknowledged and appreciated, and the right words can encapsulate those feelings.

To facilitate understanding, this section outlines a variety of terms commonly used within the sober community.

Words to Know:

• AF: Stands for alcohol-free, often stylized as #soberAF, which has a playful twist.
• NA: Non-alcoholic, typically in reference to beers or wines without alcohol.
• Alcoholic: A widely used term for someone struggling with Alcohol Use Disorder.
• Alcohol Consciousness: A concept introduced by Ken Makimsy Middleton, indicating awareness of alcohol's potential dangers and the decision to avoid it.
• Alcohol Addiction: A chronic condition characterized by compulsive drinking, loss of control, and negative emotions when not consuming alcohol.
• Alcohol Misuse: Refers to drinking behaviors that could harm oneself or others.
• Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD): A chronic brain disorder where individuals exhibit compulsive drinking and loss of control, categorized as mild, moderate, or severe.
• Alcohol Myopia: A condition where alcohol consumption narrows decision-making abilities.
• Binge Drinking: Defined as consuming enough alcohol to reach a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 g/dL or higher—4 or more drinks for women and 5 or more for men within approximately two hours.
• Heavy Alcohol Use: For women, 3 or more drinks daily or over 7 drinks weekly; for men, 4 or more drinks daily or over 14 drinks weekly.
• High-Intensity Drinking: Engaging in drinking behaviors that exceed these thresholds two or more times a week.
• Hyperkatifeia: A term describing the heightened negative emotional state linked to drug withdrawal, which may drive individuals to consume alcohol for relief.
• Mocktail: A non-alcoholic drink, often a "virgin" version of popular cocktails.
• Pink Cloud Syndrome: A state of euphoria following the withdrawal phase, often experienced in waves.
• Play the Movie Forward: A strategy to envision the consequences of drinking alcohol.
• Quit-lit: A sub-genre focused on self-help and recovery related to alcohol-free living.
• Teetotaler: A term often used in Europe, similar to "straight edge" in America, referring to someone who abstains from alcohol.
• Sober Curious: The practice of questioning the reasons behind one’s drinking habits, rather than following societal norms.
• Sober Minded Living: Living free from intoxicating substances.
• Surf the Urge: A reminder to choose strategies that interrupt drinking patterns.

If you're contemplating a break from alcohol but are uncertain how to proceed, consider enrolling in my free 3-Day Journaling Course.

Patty McMahon, M.Ed, is an educator, mother, wife, and dog lover who writes about sobriety and wellness in the modern age. To learn more, visit her About Me page. Subscribe to her newsletter for wellness insights delivered directly to your inbox. Explore her linktr.ee or become a Medium member using this link.

Chapter 2: Valuable Resources

In the video titled "I've No More F***s To Give!", the speaker shares insights about letting go of societal pressures and embracing authenticity. This resonates with the concept of sober living, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and detachment from external judgments.

The second video, "If I Swear I E Stream...", explores candid discussions about language and expression in the context of sobriety. It highlights the significance of communication in fostering understanding and support within the sober community.