What comes to mind when you hear the word, “Alcohol?” Do you ever think of it as a punch line or does it remind you of a catchy tune?
Occasionally, the word, ‘Alcohol’ or a reference to it, is used jokingly in the comment section of my blogs. For example, in my blog, “Medication Meltdown,” (11/ 1/10), I asked for coping advice when dealing with overwhelming emotions related to living with arthritis. Dray posted in a comical manner, “Alcohol. Lots and lots of alcohol!” (She quickly retracted her comment by stating alcohol does not ease her pain and generally leads to worse emotional meltdowns.)
Last spring, my husband was interviewed and asked a series of questions related to spousal needs when one spouse has been diagnosed with a chronic illness. (See Blog, “Spouse Involvement,” 7/15/10) During the interview, my husband gave honest, heartfelt answers based on 24 years of firsthand experience. But when asked the question, “As a spouse, what is the most important way to give you support? What do YOU need?” Without hesitation, Don gave a one-word answer, “Bourbon.”
I honestly can tell you, based on that very same firsthand experience, “Bourbon” was the answer Don needed to give as a comic relief of sorts, but that is not the way he plays the real game of life. Just like Dray, it was a light-hearted comment to ease the pain of a complex situation.
Country music artist, Brad Paisley, sings a song called, “Alcohol.” It’s a sing along that’s filled with humorous conditions associated with being intoxicated, including the phrases, ‘I can make anybody pretty … put that lampshade on your head … some of the best times you’ll never remember … been makin a fool out of folks just like you and helpin white people dance’. But hidden in the middle of the humor and almost unheard, the lyrics subtly state, ‘I am medicine and I am poison.’
Have you ever noticed when we’re told we can’t have something we want it that much more? In 1993, I began high-risk medical treatments in an attempt to slow the progression of severe rheumatoid arthritis. For six years, alcohol was forbidden! During that time, I noticed it more and found myself debating its usage with my doctors. By no means was it a necessity, but in a childlike manner, subconsciously I wanted it because I was told I couldn’t have it. In some sense, it was an added burden because once again, arthritis dictated what I was able to do and took the control away rather than letting me decide for myself.
Last week, I saw a tabloid headline that insinuated alcohol prevents rheumatoid arthritis. The article, which had no credibility whatsoever, stated those who drink more have fewer symptoms than teetotalers or people who do not drink at all. (Duh! Talk about a lampshade on your head – or should I say brain!) Nevertheless, I jokingly said, “Give me a straw – I’ll gladly belly up to the bar if it means ‘no more RA’!”
Disclaimer: The author of The Tin Mom Blog, Arthritis Today magazine and/or the Arthritis Foundation does not support or encourage the use of alcohol as a means of controlling or coping with arthritis and related diseases. It is important to discuss alcohol consumption with your medical care providers. The purpose of this blog is an open forum to discuss personal experiences and opinions related to alcohol as a social factor to those diagnosed with a chronic illness. It is not intended to promote the use of alcoholic beverages in any way.
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