My Personal Experience With Naltrexone and the Sinclair Method
Jun 10, 2024For nearly 10 years, I was trapped in a destructive relationship with alcohol. On one hand, drinking brought moments of fun and enjoyment. But the dark side of my drinking led to countless negative consequences, overwhelming shame, and deep regret. Every day was a battle. I would struggle to moderate my drinking, or I would start another "Day 1," promising myself, "THIS is it! I'm not drinking anymore," only to return to drinking a few days later.
The Relentless Struggle with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
Before I discovered TSM in 2017, my life was a rollercoaster of failed attempts to quit drinking. I tried everything: cold turkey, support groups, therapy—you name it. But no matter how hard I tried, I always ended up relapsing. The cravings for alcohol were relentless – I constantly thought about drinking, found that I was always "white-knuckling" it and fighting an urge that never seemed to fade. Even when I managed to stay sober for a while, I was always counting down the days until I’d inevitably drink again.
A Chance Discovery: The Sinclair Method
In 2017, during one of my many desperate searches for a solution, I stumbled upon The Sinclair Method. TSM is a treatment protocol that's been around for over 30 years but remains relatively unknown. Unlike traditional methods that demand total abstinence, TSM allows you to continue drinking while undergoing treatment. This was a revelation for me—it meant I could address my AUD without giving up alcohol immediately, which felt more realistic and less daunting.
How TSM Works: The Science Behind the Magic
The key to TSM is a medication called Naltrexone. You take it one hour before you drink, and it works by blocking the endorphins that your brain releases when you consume alcohol. These endorphins are what create that euphoric effects that reinforce the habit of drinking. By blocking this effect, drinking just feels a bit less rewarding, and over time, Naltrexone helps to "rewire" your brain. The alcohol cravings gradually diminish, most people experience more control when they drink, and the compulsive need to drink fades away.
Transforming My Relationship with Alcohol
Initially, TSM allowed me to drink moderately. This was my goal for the treatment: I didn't want to quit drinking forever, I just wanted to be a "normal drinker." And I became that with TSM! For the first time in years, I could enjoy a glass or two of wine with friends and actually stop there. This was huge for me—before TSM, one or two drinks were just the beginning of an all-night binge.
But to my surprise, as I continued the treatment, something amazing happened: my desire for alcohol kept decreasing. After about a year on the protocol, I found myself drinking less and less, until I stopped altogether, and sort of by accident. Like I said, I never intended to quit drinking...I loved that TSM gave me back my control! But I like to tell people I just kept "forgetting" to drink...and after four months of being effortlessly alcohol-free, I ended up stopping altogether in 2018.
Even thought I don't drink anymore, I love the fact that I *can* drink anytime I want to...I would just follow the TSM protocol. The crazy thing is, I just haven't wanted to!
The New Normal: Life After Alcohol
Being sober now feels entirely different from my previous attempts. There’s no more "white-knuckling," no envy of others who are drinking, no constant mental battle. My brain feels like it did before I ever started drinking—back in my teenage years when alcohol seemed unappealing. It's as if the addiction has been completely reversed.
The Power of Choice and Control
One of the most empowering aspects of TSM is that it gives you control over your relationship with alcohol. Whether you want to drink moderately or go completely alcohol-free, TSM supports your choice. It's not about willpower or resisting temptation; it's about rewiring your brain so that alcohol no longer has the same hold over you.
Spreading the Word: The Untapped Potential of TSM
Despite its incredible potential, TSM isn't widely known. This needs to change. There are decades of research supporting its effectiveness, and countless success stories, including mine. I share these stories on my YouTube channel, hoping to raise awareness and help others discover this life-changing treatment.
If you’re curious about TSM or want to learn more, click here. You can also contact us with any questions by clicking here.
Take care, and remember, there's always hope. š
Cheers,
Katie
Medical Disclaimer: This content is not for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a healthcare professional for any medical concerns. Do not ignore or delay seeking medical advice based on what you read here.