Acclaimed actor Sir John Hurt was once a world-famous hellraiser when his life descended into hedonism and alcohol following the tragic death of his fiancé.
The actor, who once boasted about drinking up to seven bottles of wine a night, was famous for partying with Hollywood villains Oliver Reed and Peter O'Toole.
And while he was still a celebrated actor, landing some of the biggest roles in the industry, he later said those "wild" days were a reaction to tragedy.
Hurt has had four marriages and several colorful relationships, but the longest was with French model Marie-Lise Volpeliere-Pierrot, who died in a horseback riding accident in 1983.
The following year he had an acclaimed role in 1984, but he partied a lot back then, even boasting about drinking up to seven bottles of wine a day.
Hurt has had four marriages and several colorful relationships, but the longest was with French model Marie-Lise Volpeliere-Pierrot, whom he met in 1967.
The two wanted to get married, but tragedy struck when, while out horseback riding together in Oxford, their horse broke and threw them onto the street.
She fell on her head, went into a coma, and died that day in 1983. They had been together for 17 years.
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He later said of the days after, "Drinking doesn't make you feel better. It only worsens the mood you are in.
His drunken drinking earned him a reputation as a party animal, but he described him as "a tormented person looking for something he couldn't find".
And while he often boasted that he lived his life in public and "never hid behind closed doors," he never spoke about the actual tragedy.
A year after the incident, Hurt married an old friend, American actress Donna Peacock (pictured), at a local registry office in September 1984.
Hurt was first married in 1962 to actress Annette Robertson, who was portrayed in a play starring David Hemmings, but it only lasted two years.
A year after the incident, in September 1984, Hurt married an old friend, American actress Donna Peacock, at a local registry office.
In fact, it was his second marriage after his 1962 marriage to actress Annette Robertson, which lasted just two years before the couple divorced.
Hurt and Donna Peacock moved to Kenya but divorced in January 1990, just days before he married his third wife, American production assistant Joan Dalton.
They met on the set of Scandal and had two children, Alexander "Sasha" John Vincent Hurt and Nick Hurt, but they divorced in 1996.
The marriage was followed by a seven-year relationship with Dublin-born presenter and author Sarah Owens.
And despite his carousing and drinking in the decades before, he was still one of the biggest names in Hollywood, responsible for some of the most acclaimed performances.
He released a film based on George Orwell's book in 1984, a year after the death of his fiancée, which received critical acclaim.
But living his life so publicly and those days of drinking has helped him to have such an illustrious career, he believes.
"If I overdid it a few times, it showed. But it wasn't a lifestyle. Otherwise I wouldn't have the resume I have, right? he said earlier.
But he changed his life later in life and married his current wife ten years ago.
He married his third wife, American production assistant Joan Dalton, after they met on the set of his film Scandal. They had two children together
John Hurt in Scandal, a film released in 1989. He divorced Donna Peacock in January 1990, the same month he married Joan Dalton.
Since then, his public reputation has changed dramatically, from bad boy in 1970s Hollywood to national treasure appearing in Harry Potter.
But the industry has also changed a lot. In 2012, years after he'd quit drinking altogether, he said, "Actors don't drink that much anymore. There were eight of us the other night and only one drank wine.”
Discussing why he quit drinking, John continued, "I wasn't helping myself, and the mood has changed."
Speaking to the Radio Times in 2015, he added: "We're obsessed with the dangers of alcohol - you get totally exaggerated newspaper articles.
“There is also political correctness. I wonder who caused this? Where does it come from and who says what is politically correct or not?'
Farewell to a Hollywood legend: Sir John Hurt, who starred in 'The Elephant Man' and 'Harry Potter', dies aged 77 after a battle with cancer as tributes arrive for 'the most chivalrous of gentlemen'.
Sir John Hurt, who received Oscar nominations for The Elephant Man and won the hearts of millions for his roles in Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings, has died.
The star, one of Britain's most popular actors, has died aged 77 at his home in Norfolk after a long battle with pancreatic cancer, it was revealed today.
His widow, Anwen Hurt, said today it will be "a strange world" without the actor, whose death has saddened the show business industry, with director Mel Brooks and JK Rowling among the honorees.
Woman. Hurt added, "John was the most sublime actor and the most gallant gentleman, with the biggest heart and the greatest generosity. He touched all of our lives with joy and magic and it will be a strange world without him.”
Sir John was known for roles such as Quentin Crisp in The Naked Civil Servant, the title role in The Elephant Man and wand dealer Mr. Ollivander in the Harry Potter films.
Sir John Hurt, twice nominated for an Oscar for The Elephant Man, has died at the age of 77 after a battle with cancer.
The Derbyshire-born star has been an enigmatic and beloved screen presence for over six decades. He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Anwen Rees-Myers (pictured together at Wimbledon last year).
He was knighted in July 2015 (pictured left) and said he wished his parents were still alive to see the honor presented to him.
Mel Brooks hailed him as a "truly amazing talent", while Harry Potter author JK Rowling called him "immensely talented and deeply loved".
Hurt recovered from pancreatic cancer in October 2015 and was signed to appear in a West End production of The Entertainer, only to withdraw on the advice of his doctors after being hospitalized with intestinal troubles.
Although Hurt revealed he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the summer of 2015, he has been direct about his mortality.
Speaking to the Radio Times, he said: "I can't say I'm worried about mortality, but it's impossible to get to my age and not think about it a little bit.
"We're all just passing the time and occupying our chair very briefly," he said.
In the fall of 2015, Hurt announced he was in remission and vowed to keep exercising.
Despite all the good, Sir John continued to experience bouts of poor health. Suffering from intestinal problems, he had to withdraw from a West End production of The Entertainer last July.
Hurt, whose death was confirmed by his agent Charles McDonald on Saturday, is survived by his wife Anwen Rees-Myers and children Alexander and Nick from his third marriage to Jo Dalton.
He died on Wednesday January 25 but was working on several films to be released later this year.
In one, That Good Night, he plays a once-famous writer who is terminally ill and may be channeling his own experiences.
He will also star in a film called Darkest Hour about the early days of WWII. Hurt was set to play Neville Chamberlain alongside Gary Oldman as Winston Churchill, although filming is still ongoing on the film.
His acting ambitions were almost dashed by his director as a boy, but he plucked up courage and successfully auditioned for the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London.
Born in Derbyshire in 1940, the English actor became a critical and commercial success with films such as 'Midnight Express', 'Alien' and 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy'.
The son of a vicar and an engineer, Hurts spent what he called a solitary childhood at an Anglo-Catholic preparatory school before enrolling at Lincoln boarding school.
His acting ambitions were dashed almost forever when his director insisted he had no chance in his profession.
He left school to go to art school, but dropped out, became impoverished and lived in a gloomy basement apartment.
He eventually plucked up enough courage to apply for a scholarship and successfully auditioned for the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, although he later recalled being so hungry he could barely say his lines.
Hurt played a variety of characters for over 60 years, from a mad Roman emperor to a pimp on his way to stardom; a circus freak to a heroin addict prisoner.
Best known for his portrayals of the notoriously misunderstood, he approached his craft instinctively, believing that method acting was for the unimaginative.
Hurt once said to British film critic Geoff Andrew: "The only way I can describe it is putting everything I can into the cranberry of my mind and hoping it ferments and makes a decent wine.
"Unfortunately, I can't describe how this process works."
Hurt was born in Chesterfield in 1940. The son of a vicar, Hurt played a variety of characters and was best known for his portrayals of the famous misunderstood man
HURT'S LAST ROLE AS AN OLD MAN SUFFERING FROM A DEATHLY ILLNESS
The Good Night, starring John Hurt, is out this year
John Hurt will give the world a glimpse of his own experiences battling a terminal illness in one of his final roles, to be released after his death.
In The Good Night, Hurt plays a once-famous screenwriter in his 70s who is desperate to mend his relationship with his son and make sure he doesn't become a burden to his wife before he dies.
The character knows his condition is terminal, and Hurt will bring some of his own experiences to the role after being diagnosed with cancer in June 2015.
He later told the Radio Times, "I can't say I'm concerned about mortality, but it's impossible to get to my old age without giving it a little thought."
He overcame the disease but was left with health problems, although he continued to work and publish a number of projects even after his death.
Hurt was filming for the film Darkest Hour, in which he would play Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain in the early days of World War II.
The all-star cast also included Gary Oldman as Churchill, Kirstin Scott Thomas as Churchill's wife Clementine, and Lily James as Elizabeth Nell.
The big-budget British film is believed to be still filming, so it remains to be seen if Hurt will show up or if they'll have to find someone to replace him.
In the 2000 classic Gladiator, Oliver Reed died unexpectedly of a heart attack during filming, so the filmmakers used footage that had already been shot and included a CGI version of the star in some scenes.
All of the other projects Hurt was working on have already been filmed and are due for release next year, including My Name Is Lenny, a biopic about one of Britain's most notorious boxers, Lenny McLean.
Hurt plays Leslie Salmon, having replaced the now-retired Michael Gambon as Leslie Salmon in the film, which is due out in February and which will star real-life wrestler Michael Bisping.
Hurt will also star alongside Jonathan Rhys Meyers in Damascus Cover, a film about a secret mission in Syria due for release sometime this year.
Gary Oldman as Churchill in the upcoming movie Darkest Hour where Jurt has been cast to play Neville Chamberlain
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Hurt first rose to fame in 1966's A Man for All Seasons and later earned a BAFTA for Best Supporting Actor and an Academy Award nomination for playing a drug addict on Midnight Express.
Just two years later, in 1980, he won another BAFTA - this time as the lead actor in David Lynch's The Elephant Man.
He also received his second Oscar nomination for the performance, hailed by many as Hurt's best, but beaten by Robert Di Nero for his role in Raging Bull.
The actor also enjoyed immense commercial success when he portrayed Kane in the 1979 blockbuster Alien. The iconic scene in which an alien erupts from his chest earned the actor a place in film history.
He later reprized the role in the Mel Brooks spoof Spaceballs, and fans have been compiling clips of Hurt's famous final scenes as the actor has earned a reputation for playing characters who meet tragic endings.
The star later found a new generation of fans when he took on the role of Garrick Ollivander in the Harry Potter series.
Hurt was also known for his work as a voice actor and brought his talent to the small screen, starring in Doctor Who, The Naked Civil Servant and I, Claudius.
Hurt recently starred in the Oscar-nominated biopic of President John F. Kennedy's widow, Jackie, which is currently in theaters. The film's director, Pablo Larraín, released a statement saying, "John was invincible. unshakable. Eternal.'
Hurt recently starred in the Oscar-nominated biopic of President John F Kennedy's widow, Jackie, currently in theaters (above).
THE GOLDEN CAREER OF SIR JOHN HURT
Sir John Hurt was a multi-award winning actor in an illustrious career spanning six decades.
Sir John Hurt was a multi-award winning actor in an illustrious career spanning six decades.
He has won a Golden Globe and four BAFTA Awards, and has also been nominated for two Academy Awards.
Oscar nominations were in 1981 for Best Actor in a Lead in The Elephant Man and in 1979 for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in The Midnight Express.
He won a Golden Globe in the same category for Midnight Express, where he played the character Max.
His acting talent in The Elephant Man, playing Londoner John Merrick, led him to a Golden Globe nomination in the United States for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama.
He won BAFTA awards for Best Actor in 1976 and 1981 for The Naked Civil Servant and The Elephant Man.
He also won Best Supporting Actor for Midnight Express in 1979 and Best British Contribution to the Film in 2012.
Hurt was nominated for Best Actor in 2010 for An Englishman in New York and Best Supporting Actor in 1972 for 10 Rillington Place and 1979 for Alien.
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In his early years, Hurt was known for his wild lifestyle and off-screen antics from hell.
He famously threw himself into a drunken rage against a crowd of paparazzi and his picture was frequently splashed across the newspapers.
The actor has been married four times, but his longest-lasting relationship was with French model Marie-Lise Volpeliere-Pierrot, whom he met after his first marriage to Annette Robertson.
The two were together for 16 years but she died in a tragic accident after being thrown from her horse in Oxford. Hurt saw her fall to the ground, after which she slipped into a coma and died later that day.
After that, he continued a hedonistic life that earned him a reputation as Hollywood's die-hard bad boy, though his frenetic lifestyle didn't solve his problems. He later described himself as "a tormented person looking for something he couldn't find".
Sir John once boasted of drinking up to seven bottles of wine a night, but he softened with age and Hurt, who once described his career as not bad "for an old drunk", picked up a string of awards towards the end of his career . six decade. - long career.
He received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the BAFTA Awards in 2012 and was knighted by the Queen at Windsor Castle in 2015.
On Saturday it rained tributes for one of Britain's most impressive and successful actors.
Director Mel Brooks tweeted: "It was terribly sad to learn of the passing of John Hurt today. He was a really great talent.
“Nobody could have played The Elephant Man more memorable. He led this film to cinematic immortality. He will be greatly missed," he added.
Rowling wrote: "I am deeply saddened to hear that the immensely talented and deeply loved John Hurt has passed away. My thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Elijah Wood, who played Frodo Baggins in The Lord of the Rings trilogy, said: "It was an honor to watch you work, sir."
Bonnie Wright, who played Ginny Weasley in the Harry Potter films, wrote: "John Hurt. What an acting legend. Rest in peace dear sir. Buying wands won't be the same without you.'
Comedian Stephen Fry called the news of Hurt's death "terrible news" and wrote: "We lost #JohnHurt so magnificently on stage, small and big screen. A great man and a great friend of Norfolk & NCFC', Norwich City Football Club.
Luke Evans, who worked with Hurt on The Immortals, wrote: "We shared a trailer, sat in our thongs and told me story after story from the good old (crazy!) days of filmmaking. I was so new to the business, but he spoke to me like and alike, with a kindness and dignity that only a man of his generation possessed. Rest in peace Mr. Hurt, and thank you for this special memory.”
British actor Alfred Molina said Sir John was "a delightfully talented actor, one of the best of this or any age".
Another British film star, Richard E Grant, wrote on Twitter: "So sad to have lost such an extraordinary talent and a friend. Mr John Hurt. TEAR APART.'
Queen guitarist Dr. Brian May also paid tribute, writing: "What a fabulous actor, great voice and human being. How sad to lose you. Rest in peace John Hurt.'
Welcoming Sir John, who is raising funds for the children's charity, Childline's founder and president, Dame Esther Rantzen, said he had had an "extraordinary career".
Dame Esther said she approached him after a London theater performance, some 30 to 40 years after meeting him as a young actor, and he "immediately agreed" to help the organisation.
She said: "He understood that it was a unique opportunity for children to seek help. There was something in his own past that made him connect with vulnerable kids — I think it happened when he was in school.
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“From then on he never turned it down, speaking for us at events, sharing stories of some of the children we were helping and attending Christmas services for us.
"Because he was a great artist, I remember writing to him and he gave him a lot more power with the way he told it. He will be a great loss to the children of this country."
Actress Clare Higgins, who worked with Sir John on Doctor Who, said he was "the perfect actor" and a "fine gentleman".
Speaking at the BBC Breakfast, she said he was recognized as one of the 'greatest' by all the actors.
“He was just the most brilliant all-around actor. He surrendered to his role.
"John had a real tenderness and gentleness that is quite rare in a male actor."
She revealed that in one of her most recent public appearances she spent three days with Sir John at a Doctor Who conference in Los Angeles last year.
"What was so touching and endearing about John was that he wasn't an actor talking to fans, he was a person talking to someone else. It was very moving and beautiful to watch.”
Chris Evans, who starred in the 2013 film Snowpiercer with Hurt, wrote: "John Hurt was one of the most powerful, generous and authentic actors I have ever worked with. Remarkable human. We will miss you.'
Academy Award-winning American actress Octavia Spencer worked alongside the veteran actor in the post-apocalyptic thriller Snowpiercer and recalled similar memories of his storytelling.
Taking to Instagram, she wrote: "John Hurt was the finest in art. It was an honor and a great pleasure to work with him on Snowpiercer.
"To pass the time on set, Luca Pasqualino, Jamie Bell, Tilda Swinton and I played this crazy card game called S***head. It's English... and yes, it's real.
"Although John and Chris Evans never performed, we all gathered around our table at base camp and listened as John shared stories from his various sets over the years.
British actor Luke Evans, who starred alongside Hurt in 'The Immortals,' paid tribute to the star
Queen guitarist Brian May praised him for his "great voice" and for being a "respectable human being".
David Morrissey called him a "generous, funny and intelligent man" and paid tribute to him on Twitter
"I was in awe of him because even though we were playing dirty rebels in a post-apocalyptic movie, he always felt real. I can not explain.
"Maybe it was the way he held his cigarette or his English accent. Or maybe the kindness he showed us all allowed his gentility to show through even beneath layers of dirty makeup and torn clothes. He was such an interesting man! i miss you
The Walking Dead actor David Morrissey tweeted: "I loved John Hurt. I have often worked with him. A generous, funny and intelligent man. Brilliant actor. Great storyteller. I will miss him.
Actor John Barrowman wrote: "Sir John Hurt showed us that your career can be diverse depending on the characters you play. So many wonderful performances.”
Richard E Grant wrote: "So sad to have lost such an extraordinary talent and friend. Mr John Hurt. TEAR APART.'
Filmmaker Kevin Smith tweeted: "Rest in Peace to the brilliant actor £ John Hurt. Most people know him from ALIEN, but I loved him as Sir Richard Rich in A Man for All Seasons.
Stephen Colbert, a comedian, writer, and producer, singled out the actor's performance as Richard Rich in The Seasons, calling him "a touching model of human frailty and a model for many characters."
Actress Jamie Lee Curtis wrote: "John Hurt. Midnight Express. Nothing better. Always.'
Keifer Sutherland called Hurt "a fawn friend" and sent his "deepest condolences" to John Hurt's family, friends and fans.
Hurt played Joseph Merrick in The Elephant Man and earned his second Oscar nomination for his performance, which many considered Hurt's best.
FROM ALIEN AND THE ELEPHANT MAN TO HARRY POTTER: THE GENDER ROLE BY JOHN HURT
Hurt's turn as John Merrick in The Elephant Man earned him a nomination for Hollywood's biggest award, an Oscar.
After starting his film career in the 1960s in a one-off role in BBC's favorite film, Z Cars, John Hurt soon found his way to stardom, winning acclaim for his role in 1966's A Man For All Season, in which he played Rich .
Alongside the likes of Orsen Welles and Robert Shaw in the Thomas Moore history play, Hurt made waves in Hollywood.
The British star soon landed a slew of iconic roles, including his iconic turn in Ridley Scott's 1979 horror classic Alien, in which Hurt died on screen when an alien "breastburster" erupted from his sternum - a moment that went down in film history .
When it was John Merrick's turn in The Elephant Man the following year, he was nominated for Hollywood's biggest award, an Oscar for Best Actor.
Since then, the Derbyshire-born actor has remained an enigmatic and beloved screen presence.
The actor's other notable roles include starring in the 1984 film adaptation of George Orwell opposite Richard Burton.
The British star was soon to be cast in a number of iconic roles, including his iconic portrayal in Ridley Scott's 1979 horror classic Alien.
In recent years, the actor has made hits like the hit series Harry Potter, in which he played wandmaker Ollivander from 2001 to 2011.
He also starred alongside Gary Oldman in the 2011 Oscar-nominated Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, and even had a role in 2013's Doctor Who, a new BBC series, as the spooky 'War Doctor'.
He was still working himself to death after being involved in the World War II drama Darkest Hour, in which he played the embattled Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain alongside Gary Oldman as Winston Churchill and Ben Mendelsohn as King George VI.
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Sharon Stone said, "God bless John Hurt, a legendary actor and a good man."
Comic actor David Schneider wrote: "Sorry for John Hurt. I was in a movie with him and he was so mesmerizing that I forgot about acting and just watched him. A genius and a lovely man.”
Hurt's personal life was sometimes overshadowed by disasters. He was married a total of four times.
He married actress Annette Robertson at the age of 22, and the two divorced in the 1960s.
In 1968 he began a relationship with Marie Lise Volpeliere-Porrot, whom he called "the love of his life". After 15 years together, she died in a riding accident.
A year after his death, Hurt married American actress Donna Peacock. The marriage lasted only four years, although the two remained good friends.
He married his third wife, Jo Dalton, in 1990 and they had two children. But again the marriage ended in divorce in 1995.
Ten years later, he married Anwen Rees-Myers, who has stayed by his side for the past decade.
FAQs
Is AA the only way to stay sober? ›
Is AA The Only Way To Stay Sober? No, you can take many pathways to long-term sobriety. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) remains one of the most common support groups for long-term sobriety. AA inspired additional 12-Step programs, like Narcotics Anonymous (NA), for those struggling with other types of substance abuse.
Why is motivation important in recovery? ›Motivation is a key component of not only the potential outcome of rehabilitation from substance abuse but also in sustaining a sober lifestyle. Studies show that individuals with more intrinsic motivation for overcoming addiction are most likely to succeed in recovery.
Is AA evidence based? ›Additionally, though there is clear evidence of AA's effectiveness, supporting research on AA's mechanisms of behavior change will improve our understanding of how AA, and other mutual-help programs confer their benefits.
Why does AA work so well? ›AA works because it's based on social interaction, Humphreys said, noting that members give one another emotional support as well as practical tips to refrain from drinking. “If you want to change your behavior, find some other people who are trying to make the same change,” he said.
What is the hardest part of sobriety? ›Sobriety is something that needs to be continuously worked on throughout a lifetime. Once people go through treatment and recovery, they believe they are better and ready to jump back into life. Sadly, this is when relapse occurs and can be the toughest part of your new sober lifestyle.
What is the golden rule in AA? ›The Golden Rule of Habit Change
By requiring members to take stock of their lives and past mistakes, AA helps its members to create a list of triggers (the cue), and also to discover what reward they get from drinking.
Sleep “This is a large part of the recovery equation,” Rivadeneyra says. During sleep, the body produces the majority of its growth factors and hormones that aid in daily muscle repair and recovery. Getting the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep per night allows those growth factors to do their work, he says.
What does recovery look like to you? ›Whether you are finding sobriety from a substance or a process, recovery looks like creative care for the whole self. From keeping your stress levels manageable to filling time and curing boredom in sobriety, recovery looks like careful time management and emotional regulation.
What is the most important factor in recovery? ›An important factor in the recovery process is the presence and involvement of people who believe in the person's ability to recover; who offer hope, support, and encouragement; and who also suggest strategies and resources for change.
Why AA doesn t work for everyone? ›Other people find AA meetings depressing or monotonous, and the thought of having to go to meetings forever is horrifying. Some people believe, and AA teaches, that addiction is a disease that is not curable. Other people believe and hope that their addiction is not only treatable but curable.
What is the real success rate of AA? ›
A New York Times article stated that AA claims that up to 75% of its members stay abstinent. Alcoholics Anonymous' Big Book touts about a 50% success rate, stating that another 25% remain sober after some relapses.
How long does it take for AA to work? ›Most sponsors encourage the AA newcomer to attend 90 meetings in 90 days. That may seem like a lot and it may seem like a long time to commit to going to meetings. However, most 12-step programs, including those for people addicted to drugs, encourage new members to commit to those 90 meetings in 90 days.
Is it OK to leave AA? ›It is absolutely okay to leave AA. That is your right as a person in recovery, and no one has the right to direct you otherwise.
How long do people stay in AA? ›14 percent of AA members stay sober between 10 and 20 years. 22 percent of AA members stay sober 20 or more years. The average length of AA member sobriety is nearly 10 years.
What are five types of therapy that can be used to treat alcoholism? ›- Talk Therapy. Psychotherapy is the classic approach of having a conversation. ...
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) ...
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) ...
- Motivational Interviewing. ...
- 12-Step Facilitation. ...
- Yoga And Meditation. ...
- Art And Music Therapy. ...
- Online Therapy.
The first year is many things – overwhelming, glorious, remarkable, emotional, and yes, hard. It's not something that can be avoided, but it's something you can be prepared for. Let me clear, sobriety is never going to be easy all of the time, but the beginning is usually the hardest.
How long after you quit drinking does your body return to normal? ›On average, the alcohol detox process takes 3-10 days.
For long-term heavy drinkers, withdrawal symptoms may continue for up to a month or more.
It may take a full month of not drinking alcohol to feel better. Although positive changes may appear earlier, 3 months of not drinking can not only improve your mood, energy, sleep, weight, skin health, immune health, and heart health. It can even reduce your risk of cancer.
Why is it called Rule 62 in AA? ›The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous discusses many steps that are involved in the recovery process. Rule 62 in recovery refers to the rule of “don't take yourself too damn seriously.” Someone in recovery doesn't always realize that they can relish their life again without the use of alcohol.
What is the first rule of AA? ›Step 1: We admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable. Step 2: Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
What are the 3 principles of AA? ›
- The suggestions for recovery are the Twelve Steps;
- The suggestions for achieving unity are the Twelve Traditions;
- The suggestions for service are described in Twelve Concepts for World Service, The AA Service Manual and Alcoholics Anonymous Comes of Age.
Understanding these rules can help clients focus on what is important: 1) change your life; 2) be completely honest; 3) ask for help; 4) practice self-care; and 5) don't bend the rules.
What are the 3 pillars of recovery? ›This article claims that disruption brought on by trauma is best treated by what can be called the cycle of love, manifesting as the three pillars of recovery: awareness, acceptance, and integration.
What are the 4 R's of recovery? ›Based on the available evidence, we have identified a mnemonic entitled the 4R's which stands for Rehydrate, Refuel, Repair, and Rest.
How do you know if you're under recovery? ›- Your resting heart rate is elevated.
- You're tired all the time.
- You're always in a bad mood.
- You lack motivation and excitement.
- You keep getting sick.
- Your body's always sore.
- You can't remember the last time you had a good night's sleep.
- You've had multiple bad workouts.
- Wishing you a speedy recovery.
- Feel better soon!
- Sending lots of love and hugs your way.
- You're in my thoughts.
- Take extra good care of yourself.
- I miss having you around.
- You'll be feeling healthy and strong again soon!
- Praying for an easy recovery.
- #1. Create an Exercise Routine. ...
- #2. Play or Listen to Music. ...
- #3. Arts and Crafts. ...
- #4. Outdoor Activities. ...
- #5. Community Activities. ...
- Creating New Pathways in Your Brain.
Most people diagnosed with a mental health condition can experience relief from their symptoms and live a satisfying life by actively participating in an individualized treatment plan. An effective treatment plan may include medication, psychotherapy and peer support groups.
What is the best type of recovery? ›...
Lifestyle
- Sleep more. Sleep gives your muscles time to recover from exercise. ...
- Massage. ...
- Compression garments. ...
- Contrast water therapy. ...
- Cryotherapy.
However, central to all recovery paradigms are hope, self-determination, self-management, empowerment and advocacy.
What is the weakness of AA? ›
Among the issues identified as limiting AA's effectiveness are the movement's preoccupation with drinking and sobriety and lack of concern for other problems.
What can you not do in AA? ›- Recruit members or furnish initial motivation for alcoholics to recover.
- Keep membership records or case histories.
- Follow up or try to control its members.
- Make medical or psychological diagnoses or prognoses.
- Provide hospitalization, drugs, or medical or psychiatric treatment.
Many times, AA meetings are an ideal venue in which recovering alcoholics can bond with one another over their struggles, and work toward overcoming addiction together as friends.
What is the most effective treatment for alcohol dependence? ›- Self-help groups. Many people who have alcohol dependency problems find it useful to attend self-help groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). ...
- 12-step facilitation therapy. ...
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) ...
- Family therapy.
How Many Times a Week Should You Go to AA? The number of times a week a person goes to AA is entirely up to them. The most common and most recommended frequency of AA meetings is once a week, but some people only go when they feel like they need to go, and other people go every day.
What does a sponsor in AA do? ›Sponsors are established members of the fellowship, who have been sober for a substantial period and have applied the principles of the AA programme to their own lives. They mentor other members, give advice and support, and assist them in completing the 12 steps (Chappel, 1994).
Does the AA take you home? ›Will the AA come to my house? If you add At Home to your policy, we'll come to you if your car breaks down at home. When you need us, we'll usually get to you in under an hour, or at a time that suits you.
What is the 12th step? ›What Is Step 12? In Al-Anon, the twelfth step reads "try to carry the message to 'others'" and in Alcoholics Anonymous it says "to alcoholics." But the principle is the same. In order to work all 12 of the steps, you must try to help others.
Is it good to have AA? ›Going to AA Meetings Is Essential to Recovery
It evaluated 35 studies to determine that attendance at AA meetings could be more effective in maintaining sobriety than psychotherapy alone. The analysis also found AA attendance correlated with reduced health care costs.
Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous don't require you to believe in a certain way. “Most people in AA are very welcoming and open to agnostics and atheists.
Can AA be without religion? ›
Alcoholics Anonymous has only one requirement for membership, and that is the desire to stop drinking. There is room in A.A. for people of all shades of belief and non-belief.
Is AA religious or spiritual? ›Although AA is a spirituality-based program, it works through a number pathways. As such, individuals may benefit from AA participation regardless of their spiritual leanings.
Do you have to pay for AA? ›There are no dues or fees for AA membership. An AA group will usually have a collection during the meeting to cover running expenses, such as rent, coffee, etc., and to this all members are free to contribute as much or as little as they wish.
What are four strategies for treating alcoholism? ›- Developing the skills needed to stop or reduce drinking.
- Helping to build a strong social support system.
- Working to set reachable goals.
- Coping with or avoiding the triggers that might cause relapse.
Detoxification is the initial step in treating alcoholism, and it can also be the most difficult. Within the first few days after you quit drinking, you may experience extremely uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Because of this, the alcohol detox stage should only be completed under professional medical care.
What are the two drugs used to treat alcohol dependence? ›Naltrexone (Trexan) and acamprosate (Campral) are recommended as FDA-approved options for treatment of alcohol dependence in conjunction with behavior therapy.
What percentage of people stay sober in AA? ›A New York Times article stated that AA claims that up to 75% of its members stay abstinent. Alcoholics Anonymous' Big Book touts about a 50% success rate, stating that another 25% remain sober after some relapses.
Is there something other than AA? ›Though AA may be the most well-known solution for alcohol abuse, it is far from the only one. There are many alternatives to Alcoholics Anonymous, including The Sinclair Method, moderation, cognitive behavioral therapy, therapy, coaching, and Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT).
What percentage of people relapse in AA? ›According to a survey of members of AA, 75 percent experience a relapse during their first year of recovery. For those who are sober five years, the rate drops to 7 percent.
What is true sobriety? ›Textbook Meaning. The mainstream concept of sobriety is commonly understood to mean completely refraining from a particular behavior or substance. However, what this is actually describing is abstinence. The textbook definition of sobriety is simply not being intoxicated at a point in time.
What are the 4 absolutes in AA? ›
The “Four Absolutes” of Alcoholics Anonymous were considered “yardsticks” in the earliest days of the recovery program —standards for determining appropriate behavior as measured through God's eyes. The Four Absolutes are Honesty, Purity, Unselfishness, and Love.
Does sobriety change your life? ›Addiction treatment and long-term sobriety can make a positive impact on all aspects of your health, relationships and experiences. You're working toward a better future without drugs or alcohol, one where you can live a deeper, more satisfying life.
Is there a non religious AA? ›A.A. is not a religious organization.
Alcoholics Anonymous has only one requirement for membership, and that is the desire to stop drinking. There is room in A.A. for people of all shades of belief and non-belief.
14 percent of AA members stay sober between 10 and 20 years. 22 percent of AA members stay sober 20 or more years. The average length of AA member sobriety is nearly 10 years.
What counts as a relapse? ›A relapse refers to a return of alcohol or other drug use, or gambling, which someone has previously managed to control or quit completely. In a relapse the use of alcohol or other drugs or gambling goes back to previous levels of use, or close to this.
Is it hard to give up alcohol? ›The “come down” from alcohol is a hard transition while the brain reprograms itself, which can make staying sober difficult. “Because things may seem flat without alcohol for a period of months, people struggle to give it up,” Mehta says.
What is a good gift for sobriety? ›A popular sobriety gift is a personalized memento that celebrates your loved one's sobriety. You might try a key chain, sober card, mug or framed picture. Any small token that can be inscribed with your loved one's sobriety date is thoughtful.
What are the 5 pillars of sobriety? ›We are guided by empathy, integrity, kindness, compassion, community, self-reflection, and of course, the five pillars of sobriety: movement, connection, balance, process, and growth.
How does sobriety change your body? ›Once you are sober, you will start to sleep better, and along with that will come more energy, improved mental clarity and brain function, regulated blood sugar, and a brighter mood.