I don't think you have to identify as an alcoholic to question your relationship with alcohol.
In this episode, I sit down with Kate Bee, founder of The Sober School, to talk about gray-zone drinking and the hidden ways alcohol can affect women in midlife. Kate shares her own journey with alcohol and why she created The Sober School for women who know their drinking is causing problems but don't identify with the traditional picture of alcoholism or recovery. We talk about the emotional reasons behind drinking, the signs that your relationship with alcohol may be changing, and why you don't need to reach rock bottom before deciding to take a break.
We Discussed:
#1 What is gray-zone drinking?
I asked Kate to explain what she means by \"gray-zone drinking.\" We talked about the space between \"normal\" drinking and the stereotypical image of alcoholism, where alcohol can be causing problems even when someone still appears highly functional.
#2 Why we drink
We explored why drinking often makes sense in the moment. For many women, alcohol becomes a way to decompress, escape, manage stress, or cope with difficult emotions.
#3 The signs I shouldn't ignore
Kate shared some important clues that something may not be right, including worrying about my drinking, waking up with regret, repeatedly promising myself I won't drink, hiding drinks, or drinking in ways I wouldn't want other people to see.
#4 Alcohol and perimenopause
We talked about how alcohol can affect sleep, anxiety, hot flushes, and weight during perimenopause. We also discussed why drinking can become especially appealing during a stage of life when women are carrying so many responsibilities.
#5 Do I have to hit rock bottom?
Kate explained why I don't need a dramatic wake-up call before making a change. Sometimes realizing that I'm repeatedly breaking promises I've made to myself can be enough information to pay attention.
#6 The six-week break
Kate shared why she uses a six-week alcohol-free period in her core program. The goal isn't to force women to decide they'll never drink again. It's about giving themselves the space to learn, experiment with new coping mechanisms, and make a more informed decision about what they want long term.
#7 Why human connection matters
We also talked about coaching, accountability, compassion, and the importance of finding the right people to support us when we're trying to make meaningful changes.
BEST MOMENTS:
\"Your drinking always makes sense.\"
\"Behind every craving for alcohol, there's some kind of unmet need or pain that's not being resolved.\"
Download the Free Guide: How To Survive Wine O’Clock Tonight - take a break from alcohol tonight and wake up feeling happy, healthy, and hangover-free tomorrow
https://thesoberschool.com/how-to-survive-wine-oclock-tonight-ga-uk
About Kate Bee
Kate Bee is the founder of The Sober School, an online coaching platform that helps women stop drinking without shame, labels, or deprivation. Her flagship program, Getting Unstuck, has supported more than 4,000 women. You can learn more about Kate and The Sober School at thesoberschool.com.
Connect with Sophia
Website | www.thereikihealingcoach.com
Instagram | @sophia_i_got_ig
Instagram | @createlifeyourway
Facebook | www.facebook.com/sophia.e.754
LinkedIn | Sophia Elcock
","author_name":"Sophia Elcock"}