Risky Drinking

I am bartender with almost 20 years experience. 95% of it in Las Vegas, with that said I can tell you that this documentary is an interesting and accurate description of alcoholic behaviors. This film shows a brief look into what 4 different stages of heavy drinkers could go through-from young,middle age and old. It may not be the best doc on alcoholism... but a good insight into how drinking can impact our lives. The film itself was well done and kudos to HBO for doing so.

This is very accurate having had two alcoholic parents and losing relationships to friends in my early twenties. The ONLY THING- I really wish there had been a Trigger Warning before they showed a photo of the second man they focused on who got stabbed.

I lost my father to homicide from stabbing and wasn't expecting that to be brought up. I realize that's my own issue and nothing to do with the movie so I didn't let it have an affect on the rating I gave. It just really caught me off guard.

I applaud HBO and the participants for putting this together. It is so real, it can be difficult to watch, especially for those viewers who personally struggle or are dealing with a family member that won't quit.

The first step in tackling alcoholism is admitting there is a problem. These four stories may strike a chord with some viewers who are battling with that admission. It also illustrates quite well the progressive and destructive consequences of letting the problem go untreated.

There is much discussed in the film about treatments for cutting back. The hard truth, and why so many hesitate to seek treatment, is there really is no going back to "social drinking". Not ever. That's were I believe each of these four characters risk failure. The good news is there is a fulfilling and enjoyable life away from the bar scenes and drinking buddies.

Strategies that have the best track record: In or out patient treatment for 1-3 months, followed by group therapy, (AA being ideal), with weekly visits to a social worker or psychiatric professional. There is a treatment for every budget. Build a network of sober friends, and work it. If the goal is to stop drinking, and not "cut back", you can do it. Keep that in mind as you watch this documentary.