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samii_delorme · Feb 5, 2009, 09:40 AM

my step dad is a recovering alcoholic and i was wondering for his sake if there is any way to keep his mind off the booze and in to something else

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Stratmando · Feb 5, 2009, 10:17 AM

You want to get him into something he enjoys.
Consider his physical capabilities and limitations, if any. Is he more intellectual?
Any Interest?
The only better thing than a Hobby, is a Hobby you get paid for.

Synnen · Feb 5, 2009, 10:24 AM

Is he in a 12-step program?

If not, he should be. They give pretty good suggestions as to things to do to NOT think about drinking.

What are things he enjoys? It's better to work off a hobby that you LOVE to do, rather than doing something for the sake of doing it.

linnealand · Feb 5, 2009, 06:54 PM

Painting, sculpture, cooking, barbecue, writing, building things around the house, woodwork, music, yoga, meditation, dancing, kick boxing, martial arts, fishing... the possibilities are endless. Many of these options, like art, working with his hands, writing, exercise, etc. can be especially therapeutic, which I'm sure would do a lot for him right now.

One thing that might help to keep him occupied in the evenings and teach him skill sets that he can be proud of himself for would be to take evening classes, like painting or cooking lessons. See what's available in your area.

If he doesn't seem to be proactive in finding an activity, it might be best if you do some searching around and come to him with a selection of choices to choose from.

This is an enormous, scary and amazing time in his life. Bless you for helping him through it.

Jake2008 · Feb 6, 2009, 09:17 AM

While getting him into a 12 step program, if he isn't already, is a great idea, you might also want to consider suggesting he see an Addiction Counsellor for either backup, or instead of a 12 step program, depending upon which he's more comfortable doing.

The transition is not an easy task either way without some assistance

A friend of mine is going through learning to live without a rx drug she developed an addiction for. Her whole life revolved around the drug, getting the drug, using the drug, finding the money to buy the drug, financial problems, work problems, marriage problems, you name it. There is so much more to learn and do after the physical addiction has been stopped.

Building a life without an addiction will require more than hobbies, although I applaud you for being so considerate and supportive of your step-dad. Spend as much time with him as you can, let him know that he can count on you when the going gets rough, and don't be afraid to sit him down and talk to him about how he's doing, and offer suggestions such as you're thinking about now.

You're a great kid, and he's lucky to have you.

RustyFairmount · Feb 8, 2009, 03:45 PM

Does recycling empty beer cans count as a hobby?

OK. Bad humor, I know.

From personal experience, I suggest an evening "big book" or "12 and 12" program. After each meeting, there is an organized social event, like dinner at a local restaurant, or movie, etc.

The evening starts with a good message, and fellowship. Followed by some alcohol-free fun.

Breaking the habit is as important as breaking the addicition.

KBC · Feb 14, 2009, 08:33 PM

For me,recovery STARTED in the program,only a beginning.The program can only go as far as the person suffering is willing to go,after that,they have to learn new things to occupy the time they used to drinking.

My first 'escape' was to find a hobby which made me content with who I was,mine was housing meetings here at my home,I liked working with teenagers who were suffering from family problems/drug use/peer pressures... etc,troubled(politically correct wording) teens.

In time,I found other outlets,I am an avid cabinetmaker,over time I invested a new tool to my shop until I have 'enough'(whatever that might be).. :)

More will develop in time,but it takes time to change from the chaos of drinking,to the new person who doesn't feel the need to 'reward themselves' for a goal done well.

Hope this opens a few ideas for him(and you).

Ken