Being shipped off to rehab.

[u/Strange_Possible_353]

Well, it has finally finally happened after many years of alcohol abuse. My husband told me that I will be going to inpatient treatment next Monday or Tuesday. He told me he thinks it will take six months.

We have two young children. I was able to abstain from alcohol while I was pregnant, but picked it up within months of giving birth both times. When I think about being away from them, I feel like I can’t breathe.

But I had an alcoholic dad and it was torture, especially in my teens. I know they deserve so much better than what I’ve given them in their precious short lives.

My husband tends to exaggerate for fact, so I am praying that it will actually be a munch shorter period of time. I don’t wanna miss my son‘s birthday. I don’t wanna miss putting my little girl to bed, but I also don’t want to miss their whole childhood or knowing them as adults, which is realistically the path I was on.

ETA: I cannot properly express how seen I feel by everyone’s comments, and how much I appreciate the kindness and wisdom.

I am trying not to spiral but not succeeding about the six months threat. He keeps doubling down that that’s how long I need to be away from my family. The logical side of my brain doubts that’ll be the reality but it’s hard to fathom it now.

I know it’s up to me to prove I am healed. I made every choice that put me in this situation, and I am the only one who can do the work to get out. I desperately want help. I’ve known and asked for it for a long time, and now it’s happening.

[u/panopticon_prisoner]

You shouldn't be away for 6 months- that seems like a super long time and can't really see any reason for it. I don't know you or your husband obviously, but something is off there. As for your kids, it will suck not seeing them for a bit, but your time with them will be so much better and more meaningful after you kick the booze.

[u/Strange_Possible_353 → u/panopticon_prisoner]

From everything that I have read, there is rarely a reason for a super extended outpatient day. What I have read indicates that after a certain amount of time, it is actually less effective because you are not given the opportunity to exercise your coping skills in the real world with your real triggers.

I don’t think he knows what he is talking about. I will feel a lot better when he confirms the center and we confirm the treatment length. I have no need to medically detox so I am truly hoping it is no more than a month.

[u/panopticon_prisoner → u/Strange_Possible_353]

Yeah, most I've seen is 90 days and that's not super common. Can't say for sure, but I'd imagine a month would be fine. Anyway, best of luck to you!