There is an AA in Pattaya it's on Soi Skaw Beach and alcoholism in Pattaya is a problem with the ex pat community and getting bigger every year, from what my mate says this branch of the AA is busy and hopefully they can get them off this drug, alcoholism is just like a drug to some people to the stage of they can't live without it and sadly it kills them in the end. So if the troll's don't like my comment over alcoholism I don't give a shit my uncle died from it a bottle of whiskey every night and 10 pints of beer.
Yeah my friend who lives in Pattaya is in NA as well. I go through my stages but if I have a big night out drinking then take the next day off the piss. But really trying less to have those days but its difficult as I enjoy going out to see live music but live now in Vietnam just visit Pattaya occassionaly when I'm back in Thailand. Yes, seen many ex pats drink themselves to the grave especially in Thaiand or Pattaya. Really I just enjoy the vibe the fun but try to stay off the booze as much as I can. Really now if I have a night out stick to maybe three or four beers a few drinks but try to keep it in control. Before I had crazy nights out very heavy drinking but I have stopped as well after a drunken incident or just because I decided had enough. Now want to focus on my writing excersise stay healthy try and enjoy my travels not dealing with recovering from hangovers. This year cut way back on my drinking but slip a bit depending who I'm with as well. Its hard here when it comes to the language barrier and the environment to fit in as well. The Thai expat community and in general expat communities are full of heavy drinkers. It can be hard to kick as well.
They get bored out there and the sex stops being good after a couple months. Drinking is one of the nastiest habits. Is kratom legal in Thailand? A far better choice and not hard on the body.
Pat, excellent post. I'm a psych nurse with 40 years of experience. The majority of my experience is detox and dealing with the fallout of substance abuse. You really did an excellent portrayal of the pathology of this issue. Keep up the great work.
alcohol is a toxin and carcinogenic. But boy did I ever have some fun adventures drinking with my friends. I exersise every morning but I wouldn't trade my adventures for anything.
I just want to add something that wasn’t mentioned in the segment regarding AA. The reason why “old timers” keep going to AA meetings even after many years of recovery is so that they can provide service and help newcomers. How else are the newcomers know that it’s possible to get sober, stay sober and live a happy, productive life? Without the “old timers” in AA meetings being sponsors and helping newcomers people work through the 12 steps, it would be like the blind leading the blind. Providing service and helping other alcoholics get sober is one of the tenets of AA and it is what makes the difference between AA and other programmes. People who have been in AA for a long time and keep attending meetings aren’t “sicker” than the others, on the contrary. They could probably stay sober on their own but they don’t want to. They go to meetings to give back what has been given to them.
Hi Pat, Excellent video on a very touchy subject. I'm one year sober (1st May) after a lifetime of abuse. It got worse once in Thailand, & I knew it. Quitting was the best thing I've ever done. My friends and family are so happy & supportive. For me, repairing relationships made it worth it. One day at a time...... Thank you Pat. Kind regards Tony
Well done Tony on 1yr sobriety, you should be very proud of yourself as it takes courage to get help, no wonder everyone is proud of you. wishing you all the best
Addiction is a deep rooted problem, just quitting is just the beginning. Keeping sober and free from it is a lifetime of recovery . It has to be replaced with something else, hopefully it is a healthier choice 🙏
So true as a non drinker my whole life, people get really intense when you tell them you don’t drink. In my late 20’s I was at a party with my girlfriend in my country and a woman I knew and worked with my girlfriend spiked my orange juice with vodka at a party, she didn’t know why I didn’t drink I realised halfway through the drink because I get hot and my cheeks go red after I have a small amount of alcohol. I didn’t start drinking when I was young because I had epilepsy and my cousin who drank and had epilepsy would have loads of seizures when she drank so I decided wouldn’t use it. I was so pissed off that we left the party and I never had anything to do with her again and neither did my girlfriend. If I had been a sober alcoholic it would have been disastrous, luckily I didn’t have a seizure, but I certainly could have.
The majority of people who drink alcohol are alcoholics and don't even know it. It is the only drug that the government considers legal and encourages usage because they get tax revenue from it. It is one of two drugs whose withdrawal from can kill you. The other being Xanax. My husband and I are both non drinkers, non smokers, non drug users. We have raised our children in a drug free home. My husband's sister and her husband are both regular heavy drinkers and all their children are as well. It's all in the parenting. It's a cycle of abuse.
I enjoy a good whiskey. I also bartended for 12 years. And when you see the same people drinking 4 to 5 times a week at your bar, it get very depressing. So that image sure helped me from ever getting to that point.
Thanks for doing this Pat. 12 years sober. Detox AA counselling and a desire to stop all helped me. This vid contains so much golden material. Good on you
since I moved to thailand I have seen so many ex-pat chronic drinkers.....it's like an epidemic over here. Glad I decided to knock the drinking on the head years ago and now focus on other things that make me happy
Excellent vid Pat. I have experienced alcohol withdrawl twice- each time after drinking all day every day for 3 weeks- Every waking minute. It is surreally horrifying. And deceptive. It usually begins between 12 and 24 hours after your last drink. So you feel ok- in the morning, resolve the binge is over- and midmorning- collapse. LEgs give out-- Haul yourself to the bed- DTs (flashing blue lights in the room, sound of a choir coming from I don't know where.) No connection between brain and legs- must slither to the toilet. Drenched in sweat- unable to sleep- for in my case, 2 full days and nights. Some old thai ladies brought me some soup that I couldn't eat- and two large Singhs-- that slowed my brain and I could sleep. My neice was a nurse in a special ward in a hospital. The staff there provided the patients with 12 beer a day- to avoid withdrawl. That would be cut down to 0 over about 10 days or so. I have read that most of the deaths due to alcohol related problems are in fact, happen during withdrawl. Not liver, kidney problems- but sobriety. (paradox or what!) The odds of a coma increase each time you go through withdrawl (at the level I did.) And as Pat['s guests make clear- don't (as I did) go cold turkey and white knuckle it. Have that breakfast beer - and then stop. Those two beers for breakfast could save your life. So- there ya go.
Hi Pat, I worked in Thailand for a year teaching. Worked 6 months in Isaan which was great, but made a mistake of going down to Nonthaburi which wasn't so good. I would often take the train to Bangkok and get absolutely smashed, often finding a cheap hostel to sleep in and would wake up severely hung over and stinking of booze. On one occasion I got the days wrong with how long I was off work for, and after taking a hungover early morning train journey back to Nonthaburi, I went to do my laundry, only to have the shock that term had began and the school was open. Since returning to the UK I had had a few sober spells. Longest I managed was 115 days. I'm currently on day 52 no booze.
This video was just what I needed. I am 43 and have been a mild to heavy drinker for 20 + years. I wanted to come visit Thailand becuase in many of the party spots drinking all day is the norm from what I have heard. I think its time I do some self reflections and wean myself off my daily drinking before going traveling again and before seirous health effect start happening to me
Thank you, this probably one of the best videos you have done. Very professional in all ways, topic, filming, research, expertise editing..this video should be mandatory for every expat to watch.
Good to raise awareness on this Pat. Ironically the last time I had a hangover was on a walking tour I done with you! You raised a great point about the attitude some people adopt when they quit. It is difficult not to look down on those who still drink a lot, as essentially it is how you have to view your old self. I struggle with this but acknowledging itand staying humble helps me navigate it. I arrive in BKK in 2 weeks, and it will be the first time I won’t be getting smashed on my arrival!
Thanks Pat a great video, I’m a teetotaller but I used to be a drug & alcohol worker in London with 10-18yr olds, my youngest client was 9 and I would pick him up from primary school. Back in Australia I worked in a rehab, alcohol is an insidious drug, because most people don’t class it as that, but I see the issues that arise from it everywhere, but it’s a big problem in Thailand.
Sadly something my brother is going through. Spent most of his adult life in Asia drinking in Thailand and Philippines. Just been diagnosed with Cirrhosis of the liver aged 41. Really upsetting to see
Thank you for focusing on a problem I myself have registered, not only in Thailand but also other Asian countries, perhaps especially in Cambodia. By the way, I want to thank you for a very serious channel with an endless amount of useful information. I enjoy all your programs, with the exception of "Drinking too much in Thailand" it is apt, not me personally, but after many years as a social worker, I know what alcohol does to people physically but also mentally. Thank you very much for addressing an issue.
most, and I say most, not all... addictions, be they alcohol or drugs are caused by underlying unresolved emotional psychological trauma... have lost 2 relatives who literally drank themselves to liver failure through alcoholism, have a history of generational emotional abuse and trauma and have suffered from alcohol addiction... its not always their fault.. its just their coping mechanism for their trauma that has a negative effect on themselves.... I got lucky and found professional psychologist to help me resolve my past issues and now I barely touch alcohol more because it messes with my sleep too much and for me sleep is very much my therapy... brilliant video pat... thanks for bringing this to light, it is a very prevalent occurrence in SE ASIA amongst expats and just saw it on a very recently on a trip out there, especially the part about other people with alcohol issues making an issue out of the one who is not drinking.. Eventually I just stopped going to that bar where alot of my former friends now go to.. I had to distance myself from them because of it.... I did have a few beers once or twice a week but then I would ensure to take a few days off afterwards... it does have negative effects and in a hot climate it can be very dangerous!
I'm a binge drinker. Ex military and always knew exercises, jobs, driving, operations, deployments would need prioritised. A good 3 day binge drink when time allowed gave me the first night buzz the second day and night slowed down and the third day a few and tired of it. In Thailand I was away on maritime security for months at a time then return with that 3 day/night binge urge. Now completely retired I have a few beers when ever I feel like it. I'm well disciplined over the years to understand alcohol is no laughing matter if not respected. I now live in a village as I prefer being in my own control and no pressure from others in a bar. Loving life with no health issues and as the years creep on my body tells me no not today no point. I now water fast more than I have a beer or even a mini binge. Water fast is noo eating and only drinking water. A pure detox with no hyped up detox juices. Nothing for the liver, pancreas and kidneys to process just pure water flushing out. I don't drive now only walk and cycle or row out on the lake. Enjoy the outdoors and that's when I can return home with that old army 3 day binge urge but only a few and get bored, off to bed. Anyway, I'm away for a pint. (Excellent video with a subtle serious message and warning).
This sounds very similar to holidays in New Orleans. My wife and I first went for a week (we were big drinkers back then) and you get completely lost in the bars, talking to other drinkers and tourists and before you know it you've lost days, out drinking for 24 hours - pass out in the hotel until the sun goes down and start up again. We loved it so much we went back a few years later for 2 weeks and that broke our brains. The amount of drinking we did was insane and I have no doubt we were hallucinating when we didn't drink, and were mostly hungover trying to get that 'high' that drinking gives you. My wife and I will be 2 years sober in September and we're thriving. We love sobriety.
I love your open documentaries and highlighting actual resources that are available to those going through this situation. Keep up the good work, you're an incredible resource!
I moved to Pattaya in 2012 and went on the piss for three straight years. It was the best time of my life. Met lots of friends living on the dark side - joined pool, dart and quiz leagues - dumped the girlfriend I had when I moved there and married a woman I met that first year. She's slightly older than me and she's got her gear so squared away it's scary. I've lost the 10 kg I gained during those three years and barely drink at all now. We are happy, and I'm a survivor. If I'd let my base urges take over completely back then, I have no doubt I'd be dead now. As are, many of the expats I met while I lived there. I love Pattaya, but northern Thailand is a much better long term life.
Gave up for 28vears started drinking again thought this is ok..went to thailand and got smashed ended up in hospital for few hours..went back my room detoxed myself for 5 days...not recommended...not had a drink since...thats 5 years ago..each day is a blessing..live in Thailand and never been happier..but always remind myself that i would be one drink away from going back to that miserable life..yes i go bars and restaurants all my friends drink to different degrees..love this video...tells the true story of alcohol abuse..
It will be 9 years for me in September (God willing!) thanks to AA. But no one who doesn't REALLY want to get sober will get sober. Gotta want it! Then put in the footwork to stay sober...do the drill. Good video...thanks!
I love your videos, and I always look forward to new posts. This one is personal. I've been to Thailand 12 times. Pretty much even split: the first 6 times I was constantly loaded, then the last 6 times (since 2015) I've been sober. I have just as good a time. Do I need the help that AA offers? Hell yes! I don't judge anyone who doesn't like it. And in the big tourism cities there are tons of excellent AA meetings. I've been to lots of them in Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya and Chiang Mai. All the support a person could want. And very international!
Thankfully, after being a heavy-duty binge drinker for I guess 30 years, I had enough of the horrendous hangovers that I'm pretty surprised I didn't die from. Pounding heart, major anxiety. And....one day around 4 years ago, I woke up and had completely lost the taste for drinking. No withdrawals, didn't, and don't miss it. During the drinking years, I couldnt/wouldn't keep alcohol in the house...always wondering how others did it. No problem now as my wife enjoys a drink very occasionally..never ever any invisible tug or yearning for a drink by me.
Another great video Pat. Very brave and commendable to share those personal struggles. It can be very tempting for those living mundane or unsatisfactory lives in the West to think that countries like Thailand are the answer to all their prayers, the truth is 'wherever I go, there I am'. Thailand can be a very unforgiving place once the novelty wears off if you do not tame the beasts within.
Tremendously insightful with depth in highlighting an important topic. As with so many other episodes of yours, I just had to watch this one for a second time. The interviews with specialists throughout this video added clarity for an enriched understanding. Well done!
I always detox for months before i go Thailand. I use liver support supplements plus i go to the gym 4 times a week. Eat healthy with little alcohol. So when i finally come over i can relax and enjoy myself without really worrying about it. Couldn't imagine that lifestyle everyday but once or twice a year is enough and enjoyable to me. Something i really look forward to
Great video as always. It’s definitely very easy to fall into the alcohol cycles here in Thailand. After I quit drinking, I found that I was able to focus on and achieve my productive goals as my efforts weren’t constantly derailed by the night out and inevitable hangovers. Alcohol is a very self limiting drug.
A subject that is not talked about enough, thanks Pat! I worked in a government program to house some of the homeless here in Canada. Most clients had problems with drinking. It was very good to see some of them get the help they needed and turn their life completely around. I never did drink much my whole life. I will have about 3-4 drinks per year. It sure saved me thousands of baht in the 3 months there. I sure hope to meet up with you possibly in Oct. I find your video's the best out of all others on RUclips.
Great vid. Big problem here. I’ve always been lucky to have an aversion to the taste and smell of alcohol so don’t drink at all. Never felt I couldn’t have fun because i was sober. It’s all I’ve ever known.
Pat this is an awesome vid, well thought out and well presented. You've covered many aspects of the disease with your own experiences included it really fleshes out the narrative. The rehab workers and counselors were great, Vinny is a very sober and mindful dude.
This is why I hang out with the digital nomad community rather than the expat community. There's something pretty dark about the way the expat community lives in most of these cheaper tropical countries. Alcoholics, sexpats, drug abusers, etc. I dont know precisely why but these issues do not affect the younger generation that works online in these countries anywhere near as much. Not that all expats are bad, but frankly I have seen enough divorced, gym fit, shiny bald headed, $50 rolex wearing, devious looking white men in Bangkok alone to last me a lifetime.
This is a great video that needed to be made. I lived in Chiang Mai and my friend moved over and he just passed away. He was 43 and stopped breathing in the middle of the night. He knew he needed to stop but couldn’t seem to make himself do it.
In 2010, after 11 years of daily heavy drinking I quit cold turkey for about two weeks. Amazing experience. First 72 hours it was like I'd peeled off saran wrap from my brain. Mental faculties immediately became sharper and my taste buds came alive again after having been deadened by relentless boozing. Cold turkey is fine. The physiological // psychological shake-up is good for the soul.
Wow. Heavy stuff Pat. But a topic that needs to be discussed. Hopefully, this will help someone help themselves and or help someone that they care about! 🙏🙏
Years ago in London I hit the wall. Was Sunday night late. I was very drunk and alone in a nightclub. No friends there. Lonely. Realized I had a drinking problem. Cut down heaps slowly. Sorted myself out slowly. There's a slippery slope with alcohol
@@richardlau6131 Definitely eloquent! Imagine spending an hour with him every now and then, talking about anything. Like a palet cleanser for my brain.
A complex and sensitive issue that is prevalent and sometimes hidden in society as a whole, not just amongst expats. Pat, you handled this subject with the diligence and objectivity as you usually do. Not sure if the shots from the graveyards were meant to send a subliminal message of the ultimate price to be paid by those who fall by the wayside and don’t seek or find the help they need 🙏
I can see why a lot of people move to thailand as expats and stay in holiday mode. Glad you are giving some attention to this and hope that it reaches those that can benefit from it.
Excellent video on a very tough subject. I observed many types of alcoholics over years in the military, in Thailand and elsewhere. I always encouraged expats to broaden their social experiences in Thailand, learn abit of Thai, pick up a hobby like art, bonsai, exercise, visiting cultural sites etc. It was just so easy for many to just keep doing the same thing in a bar every day. While not some kind of expert, I always sensed that many folks with problems were a bit socially isolated and the bar put them in a familiar environment.
Great video as always Pat. I was wondering if you could do a review of Bangkok golf courses? Even if you’re not a golfer, your tremendous research and going deep into any subject would be wonderful.
I've recently reexamined my entire relationship with alcohol, even as a person who only had '2 or 3' a night. When you're young(er) the effects don't seem very dramatic, but as you age what used to seem like 'not that much' is in fact too much, particularly if you're now 50 years old, sleeping poorly, feeling your liver swollen and hurting, and only taking a couple nights off a week because you simply felt too tired/garbage to see another drink as something that would made you feel good. WTF am i dong? I'm slowing killing myself., that's what I've been doing.
Thanks Pat really enjoyed that. Super interesting listening to the pros discuss the issue, the clinic really seems to have a genuine understanding of the situation and although not cheap I'm sure its only the equivalent to a couple of months on the piss taking into consideration the shitty decisions they may make at the time also. Nice one!
My father died from alcoholism. Nothing the family or I could do as in the end the drug was stronger than anything we could pitch against it and God knows we tried everything. Now I live in Issan and am horrified at the unbridled use of alcohol to lubricate just about every social situation. I’m a moderate drinker and am looked upon as deranged when I say don’t give me another beer. Thanks for the post Pat.
Very easy trap to fall into. I have/had friends in Malta. The pattern is easy. Every two weeks you have a fresh set of faces arriving, all packing euros, all want to have fun Typically a pint is about €2.... So you go out with about €10 in your pocket. Go to bars. Get chatting to folk. They get you "in the round" even if you can't buy a round. Lots of bars. Lots of people. Lots of "fun". As you say months go by....and you don't even notice it! Those that notice the changes are those that regularly visit, as appearances change over time. Significant weight losses. Scruffy appearance. Takes a few years if they live that long for a fall transformation. But it's so easy to fall into the trap.
My father was an alcoholic. I have an addictive personality. Quit drinking for most of my life and started back up maybe 8 years ago. Two drinks a day everyday. Most alcoholics would laugh at that, but it was more than I needed. 4 weeks ago. I decided enough was enough as I was moving to Thailand and did not want to be roaming around the country and alcohol fog. I don't always make good decisions when I am drinking and I knew that would be key to my happiness in Thailand. Also, I want to learn the language and I knew that I needed my complete attention to that. So yeah 4 weeks ago I said no more and that was it that was done. I haven't had a drinks since and I feel better everyday. I have a relative who's a heavy alcoholic and I've tried to get them to change their behavior but I know that sometimes you just have to make that choice yourself. Good video!
25 years of not drinking. Preceded by 10 years of quitting and relapsing. It wasn't easy. I am not an authority on the subject other than my life is SO much more meaningful and enjoyable living without alcohol. I know that sounds glib and superficial to my brothers and sisters that are out there drinking. If you drink and you're happy: Awesome! If you drink and are unhappy, right now is always the perfect time to stop.
I'm what I call a social drinker .... I will have 1 or 2 beers because I enjoy the taste or sometimes I'll just have a soft drink and coming from Australia drinking alcohol is deemed as if you don't drink to excess..there's something wrong with you .... i have a few friends who drink alcohol everyday and a lot too ...Love you vids Pat 😊
That was well made. I have only tasted alcohol a few times in my life, but I've smoked "broccoli" virtually every day of my life since I was fifteen. That's just over fifty solid years. Have you made any videos about that drug? I'd watch that.
Very good post. When I was younger and out with friends I always enjoyed my share of drinking. But as I got older I (lucky for me) lost my desire to drink. I’ve lost family and friends to alcoholism. One friend lost everything he had due to booze and had been through AA, several rehab stints and even jail due to multiple alcohol driving arrests. He intimately died of liver failure, such a waste. His alcohol habit was his protected zone, he wouldn’t let anyone stop him no matter how much I tried to help.
Alcoholics are ego maniacs with low self esteem sums it up perfectly in my 10 years of recovery in AA. Addicts/alcoholics (like myself) tend to have big egos and low self esteem, the struggle is trying to stay in the middle
I did not fall into alcoholism here. I was already an alcoholic when i arrived, haha. But i am sober now (and still in pattaya). But yes, i am pretty much socially isolated now. All my social connections were in bars and involved drinking.
I worked in Asia for 25 years and drinking was a part of life.Socialising,dutch courage,exitment etc. When i move to Thailand I was addicted to girls and booze every night. Then I got married and started to drink at home. The strange thing is that most people i talk to drinks more than me. my neighbour goes out every night and has 7 pints.I met a guy who drinks everyday at 1pm sleeps then same again.Even Thais say they have 4 beers a day. my cousin drinks half a bottle of scotch a day. I drink 2 bottles a day then a few shots of Ya dong
Great video/observations. Wow... the comments you read are at least as sad as the dependency on alcohol. Being judgmental does not (in any way) make one healthy - no matter how "sober" one may be. And - thanks for sharing your history. Several friends of mine have passed away from alcoholism, very sadly. I had a lovely first visit/week in Bankok last November, and am looking forward to spending more time, and seeing the country-side whenever I can make it back. Best from NYC! -ant
What drew me to your channel and those of others from Thailand, was that I saw other men that I respected out enjoying life. It wasn't till a few months later that I realised alcohol wasn't involved. Unfortunately my own relationship with alcohol has a lot to do with the western way of life, work & family resulting in stress so at the end of the day grabbing a drink is the easy solution. Looking forward to spending more time in Thailand where I can actually live a better life.
There is an AA in Pattaya it's on Soi Skaw Beach and alcoholism in Pattaya is a problem with the ex pat community and getting bigger every year, from what my mate says this branch of the AA is busy and hopefully they can get them off this drug, alcoholism is just like a drug to some people to the stage of they can't live without it and sadly it kills them in the end. So if the troll's don't like my comment over alcoholism I don't give a shit my uncle died from it a bottle of whiskey every night and 10 pints of beer.
Thanks Scott, it's a problem many know is there. But it's part of a lifestyle many go and live in Pattaya.
Yeah my friend who lives in Pattaya is in NA as well. I go through my stages but if I have a big night out drinking then take the next day off the piss. But really trying less to have those days but its difficult as I enjoy going out to see live music but live now in Vietnam just visit Pattaya occassionaly when I'm back in Thailand. Yes, seen many ex pats drink themselves to the grave especially in Thaiand or Pattaya. Really I just enjoy the vibe the fun but try to stay off the booze as much as I can. Really now if I have a night out stick to maybe three or four beers a few drinks but try to keep it in control. Before I had crazy nights out very heavy drinking but I have stopped as well after a drunken incident or just because I decided had enough. Now want to focus on my writing excersise stay healthy try and enjoy my travels not dealing with recovering from hangovers. This year cut way back on my drinking but slip a bit depending who I'm with as well. Its hard here when it comes to the language barrier and the environment to fit in as well. The Thai expat community and in general expat communities are full of heavy drinkers. It can be hard to kick as well.
british pints or american ?
They get bored out there and the sex stops being good after a couple months. Drinking is one of the nastiest habits. Is kratom legal in Thailand? A far better choice and not hard on the body.
@@dannyho6786 British pints
Pat, excellent post. I'm a psych nurse with 40 years of experience. The majority of my experience is detox and dealing with the fallout of substance abuse. You really did an excellent portrayal of the pathology of this issue. Keep up the great work.
Morning exercise is far better than evening drinking 😊
If you want soar with the eagles in the morning,you can’t wallow with the pigs in the evening.
One does not exclude the other. ;)
alcohol is a toxin and carcinogenic. But boy did I ever have some fun adventures drinking with my friends. I exersise every morning but I wouldn't trade my adventures for anything.
Well said 👏👏but don’t drink now 👍🙏🏻
Better in what? Partying and drinking is one of the most fun things to do in this life
Your videos are some of the best on youtube, more professional tv type than most of the stuff here. Kudos.
I just want to add something that wasn’t mentioned in the segment regarding AA.
The reason why “old timers” keep going to AA meetings even after many years of recovery is so that they can provide service and help newcomers. How else are the newcomers know that it’s possible to get sober, stay sober and live a happy, productive life?
Without the “old timers” in AA meetings being sponsors and helping newcomers people work through the 12 steps, it would be like the blind leading the blind.
Providing service and helping other alcoholics get sober is one of the tenets of AA and it is what makes the difference between AA and other programmes.
People who have been in AA for a long time and keep attending meetings aren’t “sicker” than the others, on the contrary. They could probably stay sober on their own but they don’t want to. They go to meetings to give back what has been given to them.
Hi Pat,
Excellent video on a very touchy subject. I'm one year sober (1st May) after a lifetime of abuse. It got worse once in Thailand, & I knew it. Quitting was the best thing I've ever done.
My friends and family are so happy & supportive. For me, repairing relationships made it worth it. One day at a time......
Thank you Pat. Kind regards Tony
Keep coming back.
Well done Tony on 1yr sobriety, you should be very proud of yourself as it takes courage to get help, no wonder everyone is proud of you. wishing you all the best
Addiction is a deep rooted problem, just quitting is just the beginning. Keeping sober and free from it is a lifetime of recovery . It has to be replaced with something else, hopefully it is a healthier choice 🙏
alcohol , the only drug one has to justify not using.
So true as a non drinker my whole life, people get really intense when you tell them you don’t drink. In my late 20’s I was at a party with my girlfriend in my country and a woman I knew and worked with my girlfriend spiked my orange juice with vodka at a party, she didn’t know why I didn’t drink I realised halfway through the drink because I get hot and my cheeks go red after I have a small amount of alcohol. I didn’t start drinking when I was young because I had epilepsy and my cousin who drank and had epilepsy would have loads of seizures when she drank so I decided wouldn’t use it. I was so pissed off that we left the party and I never had anything to do with her again and neither did my girlfriend. If I had been a sober alcoholic it would have been disastrous, luckily I didn’t have a seizure, but I certainly could have.
Bs …. Gamblers weed same rules apply …. Weak minds , it’s hardening up or piss life away
For ten years I did not drink at all. People would pressure me to drink. When I told them I pick fights when I drink they stopped asking.
The majority of people who drink alcohol are alcoholics and don't even know it. It is the only drug that the government considers legal and encourages usage because they get tax revenue from it. It is one of two drugs whose withdrawal from can kill you. The other being Xanax. My husband and I are both non drinkers, non smokers, non drug users. We have raised our children in a drug free home. My husband's sister and her husband are both regular heavy drinkers and all their children are as well. It's all in the parenting. It's a cycle of abuse.
@@workouts_2024. Total and utter rubbish right there.
I enjoy a good whiskey. I also bartended for 12 years. And when you see the same people drinking 4 to 5 times a week at your bar, it get very depressing. So that image sure helped me from ever getting to that point.
Thanks for doing this Pat. 12 years sober. Detox AA counselling and a desire to stop all helped me. This vid contains so much golden material. Good on you
since I moved to thailand I have seen so many ex-pat chronic drinkers.....it's like an epidemic over here. Glad I decided to knock the drinking on the head years ago and now focus on other things that make me happy
Excellent vid Pat.
I have experienced alcohol withdrawl twice- each time after drinking all day every day for 3 weeks- Every waking minute.
It is surreally horrifying. And deceptive. It usually begins between 12 and 24 hours after your last drink. So you feel ok- in the morning, resolve the binge is over- and midmorning- collapse. LEgs give out-- Haul yourself to the bed- DTs (flashing blue lights in the room, sound of a choir coming from I don't know where.) No connection between brain and legs- must slither to the toilet. Drenched in sweat- unable to sleep- for in my case, 2 full days and nights.
Some old thai ladies brought me some soup that I couldn't eat- and two large Singhs-- that slowed my brain and I could sleep.
My neice was a nurse in a special ward in a hospital. The staff there provided the patients with 12 beer a day- to avoid withdrawl. That would be cut down to 0 over about 10 days or so.
I have read that most of the deaths due to alcohol related problems are in fact, happen during withdrawl. Not liver, kidney problems- but sobriety. (paradox or what!)
The odds of a coma increase each time you go through withdrawl (at the level I did.)
And as Pat['s guests make clear- don't (as I did) go cold turkey and white knuckle it. Have that breakfast beer - and then stop. Those two beers for breakfast could save your life.
So- there ya go.
Hi Pat, I worked in Thailand for a year teaching. Worked 6 months in Isaan which was great, but made a mistake of going down to Nonthaburi which wasn't so good. I would often take the train to Bangkok and get absolutely smashed, often finding a cheap hostel to sleep in and would wake up severely hung over and stinking of booze.
On one occasion I got the days wrong with how long I was off work for, and after taking a hungover early morning train journey back to Nonthaburi, I went to do my laundry, only to have the shock that term had began and the school was open.
Since returning to the UK I had had a few sober spells. Longest I managed was 115 days. I'm currently on day 52 no booze.
Good luck god bless prayer is a help it help me 👍
Good luck
This video was just what I needed.
I am 43 and have been a mild to heavy drinker for 20 + years.
I wanted to come visit Thailand becuase in many of the party spots drinking all day is the norm from what I have heard.
I think its time I do some self reflections and wean myself off my daily drinking before going traveling again and before seirous health effect start happening to me
This is a very, very, very important video. I honestly hope many long term foreigners in Thailand will follow your advice 🙏🙏🙏🙏
Hope everyone all over the world follow this ADVICE 👏👏👏🙏🏻
Thank you, this probably one of the best videos you have done. Very professional in all ways, topic, filming, research, expertise editing..this video should be mandatory for every expat to watch.
Absolutely brilliant video Pat. Thank you for creating.
Cheers Phil. Hope you're all good mate. Film will be complete soon!
Living in Philippines is the same. Many expats drink all day, everyday. Booze is so cheap compared to Canada. It does end up killing most of them.
Memories of single malt smack came rushing back. Hoping this video found that person that really needed to see it today. Bravo, Pat!
Thanks
Good to raise awareness on this Pat. Ironically the last time I had a hangover was on a walking tour I done with you! You raised a great point about the attitude some people adopt when they quit. It is difficult not to look down on those who still drink a lot, as essentially it is how you have to view your old self. I struggle with this but acknowledging itand staying humble helps me navigate it. I arrive in BKK in 2 weeks, and it will be the first time I won’t be getting smashed on my arrival!
Thanks Pat a great video, I’m a teetotaller but I used to be a drug & alcohol worker in London with 10-18yr olds, my youngest client was 9 and I would pick him up from primary school. Back in Australia I worked in a rehab, alcohol is an insidious drug, because most people don’t class it as that, but I see the issues that arise from it everywhere, but it’s a big problem in Thailand.
A good thing about programmes like this is that it also helps sober people to be careful because you can easily end up like this.
Sadly something my brother is going through. Spent most of his adult life in Asia drinking in Thailand and Philippines. Just been diagnosed with Cirrhosis of the liver aged 41. Really upsetting to see
I am so sorry for yr brother and yr family 💚🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Thank you for focusing on a problem I myself have registered, not only in Thailand but also other Asian countries, perhaps especially in Cambodia.
By the way, I want to thank you for a very serious channel with an endless amount of useful information. I enjoy all your programs, with the exception of "Drinking too much in Thailand" it is apt, not me personally, but after many years as a social worker, I know what alcohol does to people physically but also mentally.
Thank you very much for addressing an issue.
most, and I say most, not all... addictions, be they alcohol or drugs are caused by underlying unresolved emotional psychological trauma... have lost 2 relatives who literally drank themselves to liver failure through alcoholism, have a history of generational emotional abuse and trauma and have suffered from alcohol addiction... its not always their fault.. its just their coping mechanism for their trauma that has a negative effect on themselves.... I got lucky and found professional psychologist to help me resolve my past issues and now I barely touch alcohol more because it messes with my sleep too much and for me sleep is very much my therapy... brilliant video pat... thanks for bringing this to light, it is a very prevalent occurrence in SE ASIA amongst expats and just saw it on a very recently on a trip out there, especially the part about other people with alcohol issues making an issue out of the one who is not drinking.. Eventually I just stopped going to that bar where alot of my former friends now go to.. I had to distance myself from them because of it.... I did have a few beers once or twice a week but then I would ensure to take a few days off afterwards... it does have negative effects and in a hot climate it can be very dangerous!
I'm a binge drinker. Ex military and always knew exercises, jobs, driving, operations, deployments would need prioritised. A good 3 day binge drink when time allowed gave me the first night buzz the second day and night slowed down and the third day a few and tired of it.
In Thailand I was away on maritime security for months at a time then return with that 3 day/night binge urge.
Now completely retired I have a few beers when ever I feel like it. I'm well disciplined over the years to understand alcohol is no laughing matter if not respected. I now live in a village as I prefer being in my own control and no pressure from others in a bar. Loving life with no health issues and as the years creep on my body tells me no not today no point. I now water fast more than I have a beer or even a mini binge. Water fast is noo eating and only drinking water. A pure detox with no hyped up detox juices. Nothing for the liver, pancreas and kidneys to process just pure water flushing out. I don't drive now only walk and cycle or row out on the lake. Enjoy the outdoors and that's when I can return home with that old army 3 day binge urge but only a few and get bored, off to bed.
Anyway, I'm away for a pint.
(Excellent video with a subtle serious message and warning).
Please can you tell me how long you water fast for? I'm interested
Its usually 96hrs l think
a very important subject, Pat. When we were in Thailand, excessive drinking was normalised and implicitly encouraged. Keep up the great work.
This sounds very similar to holidays in New Orleans. My wife and I first went for a week (we were big drinkers back then) and you get completely lost in the bars, talking to other drinkers and tourists and before you know it you've lost days, out drinking for 24 hours - pass out in the hotel until the sun goes down and start up again. We loved it so much we went back a few years later for 2 weeks and that broke our brains. The amount of drinking we did was insane and I have no doubt we were hallucinating when we didn't drink, and were mostly hungover trying to get that 'high' that drinking gives you. My wife and I will be 2 years sober in September and we're thriving. We love sobriety.
I love your open documentaries and highlighting actual resources that are available to those going through this situation. Keep up the good work, you're an incredible resource!
People doing coke always look at me funny when I say I don't want any.good video Pat 👍
I moved to Pattaya in 2012 and went on the piss for three straight years. It was the best time of my life. Met lots of friends living on the dark side - joined pool, dart and quiz leagues - dumped the girlfriend I had when I moved there and married a woman I met that first year. She's slightly older than me and she's got her gear so squared away it's scary. I've lost the 10 kg I gained during those three years and barely drink at all now. We are happy, and I'm a survivor. If I'd let my base urges take over completely back then, I have no doubt I'd be dead now. As are, many of the expats I met while I lived there. I love Pattaya, but northern Thailand is a much better long term life.
Gave up for 28vears started drinking again thought this is ok..went to thailand and got smashed ended up in hospital for few hours..went back my room detoxed myself for 5 days...not recommended...not had a drink since...thats 5 years ago..each day is a blessing..live in Thailand and never been happier..but always remind myself that i would be one drink away from going back to that miserable life..yes i go bars and restaurants all my friends drink to different degrees..love this video...tells the true story of alcohol abuse..
Not a surprise
Good on you y father was a drunk gave up picked up after 36 years. Lucky he's managed to stop
Relapse happens because alcohol is in our face everyday
Good post. This situation needs to be addressed. Thanks for posting and hopefully it will help people to address their problem.
this was another good video. You true friends will still be there, the ones who were there for the drinks will fade way. stay busy!
Brilliant ep Pat!. You really hit the nail on the head.
It will be 9 years for me in September (God willing!) thanks to AA.
But no one who doesn't REALLY want to get sober will get sober. Gotta want it! Then put in the footwork to stay sober...do the drill.
Good video...thanks!
I love your videos, and I always look forward to new posts. This one is personal. I've been to Thailand 12 times. Pretty much even split: the first 6 times I was constantly loaded, then the last 6 times (since 2015) I've been sober. I have just as good a time. Do I need the help that AA offers? Hell yes! I don't judge anyone who doesn't like it. And in the big tourism cities there are tons of excellent AA meetings. I've been to lots of them in Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya and Chiang Mai. All the support a person could want. And very international!
What a great professional video.
I really hope this video is shared and viewed by millions 💯
Great video Pat.. difficult topic, prescient, especially for us Thailand guys
Thank you Pat , for your time In trying to help others . Time well spent 🙏
Thankfully, after being a heavy-duty binge drinker for I guess 30 years, I had enough of the horrendous hangovers that I'm pretty surprised I didn't die from. Pounding heart, major anxiety. And....one day around 4 years ago, I woke up and had completely lost the taste for drinking. No withdrawals, didn't, and don't miss it. During the drinking years, I couldnt/wouldn't keep alcohol in the house...always wondering how others did it. No problem now as my wife enjoys a drink very occasionally..never ever any invisible tug or yearning for a drink by me.
Another great video Pat. Very brave and commendable to share those personal struggles. It can be very tempting for those living mundane or unsatisfactory lives in the West to think that countries like Thailand are the answer to all their prayers, the truth is 'wherever I go, there I am'. Thailand can be a very unforgiving place once the novelty wears off if you do not tame the beasts within.
Tremendously insightful with depth in highlighting an important topic. As with so many other episodes of yours, I just had to watch this one for a second time. The interviews with specialists throughout this video added clarity for an enriched understanding. Well done!
I always detox for months before i go Thailand. I use liver support supplements plus i go to the gym 4 times a week. Eat healthy with little alcohol. So when i finally come over i can relax and enjoy myself without really worrying about it. Couldn't imagine that lifestyle everyday but once or twice a year is enough and enjoyable to me. Something i really look forward to
Well done Pat. If this can help just one person, who knows what the ripple effect may be.🙏
Great video, Pat. Many people, surprisingly, don't see this side of Thailand.
Bangkok Pat is a Real One ☝️👊❤️
Thank you very much for amazing Video 👏👏👏🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 PS you should be so proud of yourself for getting sober BRILLIANT. 👏👏👏👏👍
Pat, damn brilliant. You are becoming a Guru without knowing it. Love your vlog mate. Krgds. Brian
You’ve made many great posts on your channel this is without doubt the most worthwhile one ! Excellent and meaningful well done Pat .
Interesting vid Pat. Thanks for posting.
Great video as always. It’s definitely very easy to fall into the alcohol cycles here in Thailand. After I quit drinking, I found that I was able to focus on and achieve my productive goals as my efforts weren’t constantly derailed by the night out and inevitable hangovers. Alcohol is a very self limiting drug.
A subject that is not talked about enough, thanks Pat!
I worked in a government program to house some of the homeless here in Canada. Most clients had problems with drinking. It was very good to see some of them get the help they needed and turn their life completely around.
I never did drink much my whole life. I will have about 3-4 drinks per year. It sure saved me thousands of baht in the 3 months there. I sure hope to meet up with you possibly in Oct. I find your video's the best out of all others on RUclips.
You always do a great job on this topic very informative. Thank you.✌🏽
A great insight into what is a massive problem i would say worldwide thanks for sharing ❤️🏴x
Great vid. Big problem here. I’ve always been lucky to have an aversion to the taste and smell of alcohol so don’t drink at all. Never felt I couldn’t have fun because i was sober. It’s all I’ve ever known.
One of the highest quality YT content developed by an independent content creator. Impressive!
Pat this is an awesome vid, well thought out and well presented. You've covered many aspects of the disease with your own experiences included it really fleshes out the narrative. The rehab workers and counselors were great, Vinny is a very sober and mindful dude.
This episode should win some kind of awards, this is powerful stuuff man !
This is why I hang out with the digital nomad community rather than the expat community.
There's something pretty dark about the way the expat community lives in most of these cheaper tropical countries.
Alcoholics, sexpats, drug abusers, etc. I dont know precisely why but these issues do not affect the younger generation that works online in these countries anywhere near as much.
Not that all expats are bad, but frankly I have seen enough divorced, gym fit, shiny bald headed, $50 rolex wearing, devious looking white men in Bangkok alone to last me a lifetime.
This is a great video that needed to be made.
I lived in Chiang Mai and my friend moved over and he just passed away. He was 43 and stopped breathing in the middle of the night. He knew he needed to stop but couldn’t seem to make himself do it.
Another great video Pat, thanks for tackling a difficult subject. Respect to Rob also 👍
9 months sober, so looking forward to going back to Thailand and doing a trip without alcohol
In 2010, after 11 years of daily heavy drinking I quit cold turkey for about two weeks. Amazing experience. First 72 hours it was like I'd peeled off saran wrap from my brain. Mental faculties immediately became sharper and my taste buds came alive again after having been deadened by relentless boozing. Cold turkey is fine. The physiological // psychological shake-up is good for the soul.
God be with you.
Love and support from MAGA USA
Wow. Heavy stuff Pat. But a topic that needs to be discussed. Hopefully, this will help someone help themselves and or help someone that they care about! 🙏🙏
Nice video Pat, well done, as usual. Sorry it took so long for me to see the video. YT didn't present it to me. I finally went looking for it.
My apologies Charlie, I should have sent you the link. I assumed you'd already watched it!
I found smoking weed was of great help while I was giving up drinking .
Hats off to you Pat , this information can and will save lives , deserves to go viral all over the planet . RESPECT
Years ago in London I hit the wall. Was Sunday night late. I was very drunk and alone in a nightclub. No friends there. Lonely. Realized I had a drinking problem. Cut down heaps slowly. Sorted myself out slowly. There's a slippery slope with alcohol
How are you now?
awesome content ! Been sober 13 and a half years one day at a time. Thanks for sharing and stay blessed,
Thanks Pat. Another great vid. Hope all is well over there.
Great and important video! And with that voice, Vinny should do audio books.
Totally agree with you about Vinny. Not only his voice, but the clarity and organization of his thoughts.
@@richardlau6131 Definitely eloquent! Imagine spending an hour with him every now and then, talking about anything. Like a palet cleanser for my brain.
Thanks Pat, excellent content and very accurate. Alcohol is cunning, baffling and powerful for the real alcohol.
ALWAYS ALWAYS. love you're vids Pat.But this was a really really seriously good one.Thank you Pat
God bless you.topman💯🤍
A complex and sensitive issue that is prevalent and sometimes hidden in society as a whole, not just amongst expats.
Pat, you handled this subject with the diligence and objectivity as you usually do. Not sure if the shots from the graveyards were meant to send a subliminal message of the ultimate price to be paid by those who fall by the wayside and don’t seek or find the help they need 🙏
Cheers! It was the quietest place l could find to film around there...
I can see why a lot of people move to thailand as expats and stay in holiday mode. Glad you are giving some attention to this and hope that it reaches those that can benefit from it.
Excellent video on a very tough subject. I observed many types of alcoholics over years in the military, in Thailand and elsewhere. I always encouraged expats to broaden their social experiences in Thailand, learn abit of Thai, pick up a hobby like art, bonsai, exercise, visiting cultural sites etc. It was just so easy for many to just keep doing the same thing in a bar every day. While not some kind of expert, I always sensed that many folks with problems were a bit socially isolated and the bar put them in a familiar environment.
Great video as always Pat. I was wondering if you could do a review of Bangkok golf courses? Even if you’re not a golfer, your tremendous research and going deep into any subject would be wonderful.
I've recently reexamined my entire relationship with alcohol, even as a person who only had '2 or 3' a night. When you're young(er) the effects don't seem very dramatic, but as you age what used to seem like 'not that much' is in fact too much, particularly if you're now 50 years old, sleeping poorly, feeling your liver swollen and hurting, and only taking a couple nights off a week because you simply felt too tired/garbage to see another drink as something that would made you feel good. WTF am i dong? I'm slowing killing myself., that's what I've been doing.
so true
Another goodie Pat, keep em coming
Thanks Pat really enjoyed that. Super interesting listening to the pros discuss the issue, the clinic really seems to have a genuine understanding of the situation and although not cheap I'm sure its only the equivalent to a couple of months on the piss taking into consideration the shitty decisions they may make at the time also. Nice one!
My father died from alcoholism. Nothing the family or I could do as in the end the drug was stronger than anything we could pitch against it and God knows we tried everything. Now I live in Issan and am horrified at the unbridled use of alcohol to lubricate just about every social situation. I’m a moderate drinker and am looked upon as deranged when I say don’t give me another beer.
Thanks for the post Pat.
Very easy trap to fall into.
I have/had friends in Malta.
The pattern is easy.
Every two weeks you have a fresh set of faces arriving, all packing euros, all want to have fun
Typically a pint is about €2....
So you go out with about €10 in your pocket. Go to bars. Get chatting to folk. They get you "in the round" even if you can't buy a round.
Lots of bars. Lots of people. Lots of "fun".
As you say months go by....and you don't even notice it!
Those that notice the changes are those that regularly visit, as appearances change over time.
Significant weight losses.
Scruffy appearance.
Takes a few years if they live that long for a fall transformation.
But it's so easy to fall into the trap.
My father was an alcoholic. I have an addictive personality. Quit drinking for most of my life and started back up maybe 8 years ago. Two drinks a day everyday. Most alcoholics would laugh at that, but it was more than I needed. 4 weeks ago. I decided enough was enough as I was moving to Thailand and did not want to be roaming around the country and alcohol fog. I don't always make good decisions when I am drinking and I knew that would be key to my happiness in Thailand. Also, I want to learn the language and I knew that I needed my complete attention to that. So yeah 4 weeks ago I said no more and that was it that was done. I haven't had a drinks since and I feel better everyday.
I have a relative who's a heavy alcoholic and I've tried to get them to change their behavior but I know that sometimes you just have to make that choice yourself.
Good video!
Good on you
This was helpful. I do wish it was longer.
25 years of not drinking. Preceded by 10 years of quitting and relapsing.
It wasn't easy.
I am not an authority on the subject other than my life is SO much more meaningful and enjoyable living without alcohol.
I know that sounds glib and superficial to my brothers and sisters that are out there drinking. If you drink and you're happy: Awesome!
If you drink and are unhappy, right now is always the perfect time to stop.
I'm what I call a social drinker .... I will have 1 or 2 beers because I enjoy the taste or sometimes I'll just have a soft drink and coming from Australia drinking alcohol is deemed as if you don't drink to excess..there's something wrong with you .... i have a few friends who drink alcohol everyday and a lot too ...Love you vids Pat 😊
That was well made. I have only tasted alcohol a few times in my life, but I've smoked "broccoli" virtually every day of my life since I was fifteen. That's just over fifty solid years. Have you made any videos about that drug? I'd watch that.
Very good post. When I was younger and out with friends I always enjoyed my share of drinking. But as I got older I (lucky for me) lost my desire to drink. I’ve lost family and friends to alcoholism. One friend lost everything he had due to booze and had been through AA, several rehab stints and even jail due to multiple alcohol driving arrests. He intimately died of liver failure, such a waste. His alcohol habit was his protected zone, he wouldn’t let anyone stop him no matter how much I tried to help.
Alcoholics are ego maniacs with low self esteem sums it up perfectly in my 10 years of recovery in AA. Addicts/alcoholics (like myself) tend to have big egos and low self esteem, the struggle is trying to stay in the middle
I did not fall into alcoholism here. I was already an alcoholic when i arrived, haha. But i am sober now (and still in pattaya). But yes, i am pretty much socially isolated now. All my social connections were in bars and involved drinking.
Best channel ever. Period!
Great post thank you Pat.
Tack!
I worked in Asia for 25 years and drinking was a part of life.Socialising,dutch courage,exitment etc. When i move to Thailand I was addicted to girls and booze every night. Then I got married and started to drink at home.
The strange thing is that most people i talk to drinks more than me. my neighbour goes out every night and has 7 pints.I met a guy who drinks everyday at 1pm sleeps then same again.Even Thais say they have 4 beers a day. my cousin drinks half a bottle of scotch a day.
I drink 2 bottles a day then a few shots of Ya dong
Just found your channel…I love watching Thailand channels but most are the same . Your vids are educational and without the ego ! 🙏🏼
Great video/observations. Wow... the comments you read are at least as sad as the dependency on alcohol. Being judgmental does not (in any way) make one healthy - no matter how "sober" one may be. And - thanks for sharing your history. Several friends of mine have passed away from alcoholism, very sadly. I had a lovely first visit/week in Bankok last November, and am looking forward to spending more time, and seeing the country-side whenever I can make it back. Best from NYC! -ant
What drew me to your channel and those of others from Thailand, was that I saw other men that I respected out enjoying life. It wasn't till a few months later that I realised alcohol wasn't involved. Unfortunately my own relationship with alcohol has a lot to do with the western way of life, work & family resulting in stress so at the end of the day grabbing a drink is the easy solution. Looking forward to spending more time in Thailand where I can actually live a better life.