Elaine’s Alcohol-Free Success Story

How Much Were You Drinking, and Why Did You Want to Change?

It’s scary to think about now, but I was drinking well over a bottle of wine a night, sometimes more. I never felt like myself — always tired, grumpy, and emotional. What really struck a nerve was my son, who’s turning 10 next month, saying things like:

“Mummy, please stop drinking wine. Do you have to drink it every day?”

Any parent hearing that knows how deeply it hits. For his sake, I needed to be healthy, present, and okay. I also knew I couldn’t moderate. I’d tried before, and it never worked. I needed something that completely removed the constant urge to drink — and that’s exactly what the Just The Tonic programme did.

Had You Tried Other Ways to Cut Down or Stop Drinking?

Yes — but never with my whole heart in it. I’d tell myself:

“I’m not drinking until Thursday.”
“No wine tonight.”
“I’ll wait until the weekend.”

Some days I did. Most days I didn’t.

I’d tried Dry January, Lent, and countless “I’ll stop tomorrow” promises. Like many people who struggle with drinking, I had no idea why I was drinking — and sheer willpower didn’t work. I never addressed the root causes until this programme.

Were You Afraid the Just The Tonic Method Wouldn’t Work?

Oh my god — I was terrified.

I was scared it would work.
I was scared it wouldn’t work.
I knew I was done drinking, but I also knew I couldn’t do it alone.

Sandra invited me to a group call on day one, and hearing everyone be so open, honest, and encouraging made such a difference. What scared me the most was saying goodbye to alcohol — even though it was harming me, it still felt like a crutch. But every week, it got easier. You realise alcohol doesn’t make anything better. It actually makes everything worse.

What Were the Biggest Challenges in the Early Days?

Honestly?
Both social situations and being on my own.

Like many people, most of my drinking happened behind closed doors. Even though my son saw me have wine with dinner, he didn’t see the rest of the bottle — but he knew. Kids aren’t silly.

Being around others drinking (especially when I was away in Ireland during week two) was tough at first, but once I was actually there, I realised I could enjoy myself. Alcohol-free alternatives helped massively — a tip I got from the group and the Upgraded Life community.

I also kept myself busy in the evenings — seeing friends, going for late walks, or tidying at home. It became a mindset shift.

When Did It Start Feeling Like the Programme Was Working?

Around week five.

I could see myself becoming one of the people at the “end” of the programme — the people I admired in week one. I didn’t feel deprived. I didn’t crave alcohol. I wasn’t fighting myself anymore.

Seeing new people join reminded me how far I’d come. I kept thinking:

“I cannot wait for you to feel this good.”

The transformation from week one to week five is honestly indescribable.

How Long Have You Been Alcohol-Free Now?

Over six months.

I had a couple of alcoholic drinks in week one, very early in the programme, but since then — nothing. So I’m over six months alcohol-free and feeling incredible.

The Impact on Family Life

How Has Alcohol-Free Living Changed Your Relationship With Your Son?

It’s like night and day.

I was never a bad mum — but I definitely put alcohol first. I’d rush home from places so I could drink. I was impatient, grumpy, and short-tempered.

That’s all gone.

We stay out longer. We have more fun. There’s no rushing home to pour a drink. He even jokes now:

“Mummy, when did you last have a drink?”

He laughs because it’s no longer part of our life. There’s harmony in the house now. It’s lighter. Happier.

What About Work — Has That Changed Too?

Absolutely.

I wake up feeling good. I’m sharper, more focused, and more relaxed at work. When I travelled with colleagues, I expected it to be difficult — but it wasn’t.

At our Christmas night out, someone asked if I felt rough the next day. I said:
“No, I don’t drink.”
They replied: “I thought you did — you seemed so relaxed!”

People genuinely don’t care if you’re drinking or not. I didn’t realise that before.

How Did Drinking Make You Feel Before the Programme?

Guilty.
Ashamed.
Scared.

Inside, I didn’t like myself. I gained weight. I avoided the gym. I smiled on the outside but didn’t like who I was becoming.

Since going alcohol-free, I’ve lost two and a half stone, and I’m still going. My son even comes to the gym with me (he eats snacks and jokes that he eats the calories I burn!). We walk more. We do more. I feel proud of myself again.

It’s incredible.

How Has Your Energy Changed?

100% better.

I still hit snooze for five minutes, but once I’m up — I feel great. Even late nights don’t hit the same. Without hangovers, you have clarity, energy, and a sense of wellbeing I didn’t realise I’d lost.

Even the dog has lost weight with all the extra walks!

Rewards, Milestones & Celebrating Wins

I rewarded myself with new trainers at 30 days, and I’m slowly upgrading my gym gear now that I actually enjoy wearing it. Feeling good in myself has made such a difference.

What Impact Did the Support Group Have?

Massive.

The mix of people — day one to week eight — was inspiring. You want to grab the week-one people and tell them:

“You can do this. Your life gets so much better.”

The group answered questions about social events, holidays, AF drinks, and how to navigate cravings. Knowing others had walked the path made everything easier.

Being a Role Model for Your Son

He’s only 10, but I’m already thinking ahead to the teenage years. Because he’s seen both sides — me drinking and me alcohol-free — I’ll be able to talk to him honestly, not preach. He’ll have a different perspective because he watched me change.

What Would You Say to Someone Who’s Scared to Join the Programme?

Just do it.

I was terrified. I hoped Sandra wouldn’t call. I didn’t want to admit how bad things were — because admitting it to her meant admitting it to myself.

But it gave me my life back.

The programme, the coaching, the community — it all comes together in a way that’s life-changing. You don’t have to keep struggling. You absolutely can get your life back.

Final Thoughts

The support, understanding, and lack of judgement in the programme is incredible. You’re surrounded by people who “get it” — and it changes everything.

Thank you, Sandra.

➡️ Speak to a sober coach today and start your journey toward clarity, confidence, and control.