#293 – Using alcohol to fix being neurodivergent with Ali Press

VeronicaValli

In this episode, Veronica sits down with Ali Press, a counsellor who specializes in helping neurodivergent people get sober. Ali didn’t realise until she got sober that a lot of her struggles were because of being neurodivergent and how understanding this can provide great clarity and relief while navigating the sober world. Listen to the episode now: Follow Us for FREE: Apple Podcasts | Android | Spotify | RSS Watch to the episode now: about this episode

“The more you know about yourself, the better you get at being yourself.” In this episode of the Soberful podcast, Veronica Valli speaks with Ali Press about the intersection of sobriety and neurodivergence. Ali shares her personal journey with alcohol, detailing her struggles and the turning point that led her to sobriety. They discuss the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in social situations and how alcohol often serves as a coping mechanism. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, community support, and understanding one’s unique needs in the recovery process. Episode takeaways:

Ali Press has been sober for nearly eight years.
Drinking started as a social activity but escalated into a coping mechanism.
Neurodivergence can complicate the relationship with alcohol.
Finding supportive communities is crucial for recovery.
Self-awareness is key to understanding personal triggers and needs.
Sobriety can lead to greater self-discovery and acceptance.
Ali’s journey highlights the importance of individualized approaches in counseling.
The stigma around non-drinkers can be challenging to navigate.
Understanding neurodivergence can help in managing sobriety.
Consent to one’s own needs is essential for mental health.