Can you imagine trying to run marathons while drinking a bottle of wine every night? For Amy, this was her reality—a high-functioning mom and teacher masking her struggles with alcohol. Years of failed attempts to quit left her feeling hopeless until she discovered This Naked Mind. Its approach helped her break free from alcohol and face an eating disorder that had gone unchecked for decades. Her journey sheds light on the often-overlooked link between alcohol and eating disorders and the freedom that comes with emotion-based change.

It Began with Small Rebellions

I started experimenting with alcohol in middle school, during the summer before high school. At the time, it felt like harmless fun. Drinking seemed to make me more relaxed and confident, and it helped me fit in socially. Everyone who was popular was doing it, and as someone who craved acceptance, I joined in. Drinking was rebellious and sneaky – especially in my family, where alcohol was strictly frowned upon. My parents didn’t drink, which only added to the thrill of breaking the rules.

Even back then, I noticed something was different about the way I drank. Whenever I drank, I overdid it. But I brushed it off as part of being young and carefree. It wasn’t until years later, when I was parenting and unwinding every evening with a glass of wine (or a few), that I realized how deeply ingrained my drinking habit had become.

How Alcohol Became My Crutch

For years, my evenings followed the same pattern. Around 4 p.m., I’d start craving wine. By the time the kids were settled, I’d pour myself a glass to “relax.” Social events became synonymous with drinking. I couldn’t imagine hosting or attending a gathering without a buzz. The only exception was family parties, where I’d dial it back – but even then, alcohol was always on my mind.

I tried everything to quit. I made rules: only drink on weekends, stick to beer instead of wine, or stop after two glasses. But the rules never worked. I attempted extended breaks, like giving up alcohol for Lent, but I always found myself slipping back into old habits.

The link between alcohol addiction and eating disorders started to become clearer to me as I battled both. I’d been dealing with disordered eating for years, but I never connected the dots. Alcohol was my crutch for emotional pain, but it also fueled my unhealthy relationship with food and my body.

Finding Hope Through This Naked Mind

When my counselor suggested I try This Naked Mind, I was skeptical. I had spent 30 years trying to quit drinking. Nothing had worked. But I was desperate, so I gave the free 30-day Alcohol Experiment a shot. To my surprise, it changed everything.

Start Your Alcohol Experiment

The Alcohol Experiment brought Amy freedom when nothing else could. This free guided 30-day program is all about interrupting patterns, disrupting beliefs, and giving you back power and control. Click the button below and start your experiment now!

For the first time, I didn’t feel deprived. I didn’t feel like I was giving something up. Instead, I gained a new perspective on alcohol and why I drank in the first place. The experience was so transformative that I didn’t want to go back to drinking. I couldn’t believe it! After years of thinking I couldn’t have fun or be happy without alcohol, I realized the opposite was true. Life became more joyful and fulfilling without it.

Quitting alcohol also gave me the clarity and courage to address my eating disorder. The link between alcohol addiction and eating disorders became undeniable. As I let go of alcohol, I found the strength to seek treatment for my disordered eating. Today, I’m free of both addictions, and it all began with Annie Grace’s program.

A Life Free of Alcohol and Eating Disorders

Let me tell you, life without alcohol is a whole new world. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it. I’ve learned to enjoy social events without a drink in my hand. I’ve built healthier coping mechanisms and stronger relationships with my partner and family. Therapy has been an ongoing part of my journey, helping me uncover and address the deeper issues that led me to alcohol and disordered eating in the first place.

One of the most surprising changes has been how much peace and contentment I feel. I used to think alcohol made life more exciting, but the truth is, it held me back from truly living. Now, I have the energy and clarity to pursue the things that bring me real joy, like running and spending time with my kids.

What I Wish I Could Tell My Younger Self

If I could go back and talk to the Amy who was struggling and hopeless, I’d tell her this: “Oh my goodness! Be free. Don’t waste any of your wild and precious life with alcohol. If something requires you to drink to enjoy it, it’s not worth doing.”

The link between alcohol addiction and eating disorders is real, but so is the possibility of finding freedom from both. I’m living proof that it’s never too late to change. I’ve found freedom, peace, and joy on the other side of addiction. And I want everyone who feels stuck to know that this kind of life is possible for them, too.

Quitting alcohol has given me a new lease on life. It’s helped me heal not just from drinking but also from the eating disorder that went hand-in-hand with it. If you’re struggling with the same battles, know that you’re not alone. There is hope, and there is help.

Share Your Story

Did our books, the app, the podcasts, or another program at This Naked Mind help you find freedom from alcohol? We want you to share your story here and inspire others on their journey!