In this episode I chat with Claire McCreedy from the ACT. Claire grew up in an unpredictable and emotionally unsafe environment, with an alcoholic mother and parents who lived quite reclusively. From a young age, her nervous system was wired for survival. Social skills didn’t come naturally, home life was isolating, and by fourteen, alcohol became her tool for managing social situations.
As life progressed, Claire found herself in a domestic violence relationship and continued to use alcohol as a way to soothe anxiety and emotional overwhelm. After separating from her partner, the loneliness she felt on weekends without her children became unbearable, she describes those weekends as “one weekend I’m a mother, the next weekend I don’t know who I am.” Alcohol became a numbing mechanism to cope with that disconnection.
Her turning point came when a new partner gently but firmly reflected back the reality of her drinking, expressing that he couldn’t have that level of alcohol around his daughter. It sparked a powerful wake-up call.
Claire began to educate herself about alcohol and got sober-curious. Today, at 42, she’s over two years sober and thriving. She walks daily, uses breathwork to calm her nervous system, and is creating a life that’s grounded in clarity, health, and self-awareness.
For more resources such as coaching or to join the next HIQA challenge or retreat go to
Follow HIQA insta @howiquitalcohol
Music for Podcast intro and outro written by Danni Carr performed by Mr Cassidy
If you are struggling with physical dependancy on alcohol consider contacting a local AA meeting or a drug and alcohol therapist. Always consult a GP before stopping alcohol.
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