Clearly stated

There is something rather odd about going to an Alcohol Unit with a hangover, kind of like saying, do you really need to come here to find this out?? The unit itself is tucked away behind an industrial estate, not obvious, no one will see you walking in. I stood and looked and went to open the door when I discovered that it was a buzz entry only - great, they lock us in here as well. A boxy unit with several small corridors, not the most of welcoming of places, but I suppose they're not meant to be. The man I had an appointment with never told me his name, or introduced himself, he lead me to a room where we sat and began the interview.

It was a standard form for alcohol and drug alike, so not all of the questions were relevant, but he needed to ask them anyway. I sat there trying very hard to concentrate and remember what had just been asked, but nerves again got the better of me and the experience is hazy to say the least. There were definite questions about lifestyle, when, where, how much do I drink? How often? What effect does it have if I do not drink, how long can I go without? Then there were the questions to which I could see no real point, these I have appropriately forgotten. I had expected to have more of a 'chat' than a formal interview and was surprised when he said 'that's all the questions'. Followed promptly by ' right, so you are alcohol dependant. I would like you to come to our pre-detox group.'
Bugger.
So that was it, clearly stated, there can now be no more hiding from this fact. It will be written in my medical notes, sent to my doctor as I need some vitamin which alcohol dependant people are regularly lacking, and sent away waiting for a letter regarding the group. Clinical, precise and to the point.
Bugger.
Not that I was given the green light to go ahead and drink, but I was clearly told, do not stop. Apparently it can be dangerous and rather unpleasant to simply stop, hence the group. Do not touch wine or spirits, as they are very bad, stick to beer, lower alcohol ones if possible, we will be in touch.
Bugger.
This can't be right, surely not. I just don't understand it - I can drink a grown man under the table yes, but dependant? It just sounds so ... tacky. Pathetic. Not nice. And once you have been told that, drinking changes forever. No longer the fun party time stuff of mad nights and adventures, now all I can see is me sitting on a bench with a bottle of cheap cider covered in a Tesco carrier bag! OK, so I may be exaggerating, but the effect is the same, now it is something I need to have rather than am choosing to have. And that's just not as enjoyable.