What I'm Reading: Quit Like a Woman

I listened to Quit Like a Woman: The Radical Choice to Not Drink in a Culture Obsessed with Alcohol by Holly Whitaker on audiobook--it’s read by the author, which is always a plus! Side note: I love to listen to self-help type books via audio while I’m driving, because they feel like a podcast. I also like to read books I hear about from my clients, and this was one that was being recommended again and again! 

I loved this book, which, in short, I’d describe as a feminist perspective on getting sober. She starts off by describing how AA (the typical go-to for addiction recovery) was created by men for men, and she goes on to describe how she was able to recover from heavy drinking and drug use in a way that worked for her. She explains so well that recovery isn’t a matter of finding one therapist or one program that works, but it’s a combination of a LOT of things that come together to create safety and growth. My only “ding” on this book was the nutritional suggestions, however they were minimal and could be overlooked if needed. Again, she gives permission to take what works and leave the rest, so almost none of the book is taken as a “rule.”

Overall, I think this was an approachable and honest book, which also acknowledges the systems that perpetuate addiction. It seems appropriate in a world where many are acknowledging their own trauma and oppression and how these impact their lives and behaviors.

Filled with encouragement to find what works for you and practical steps you can take to begin your journey of recovery, I highly recommend this one to women and men exploring their relationship with alcohol. I also recently “read” (listened to) This Naked Mind by Annie Grace and Facing Love Addiction by Pia Mellody, and I think they pair really well! 

I found myself excited about this book and talking about it often with friends, colleagues, and clients--it gave me a lot to think about and reflect on. I’ll probably listen to it again at some point to soak it up a bit more. 

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Authored by: Jessica Chavolla, LPC