18 www.CharlestonWomenPodcast.com | www.ReadCW.com | www.Instagram.com/CharlestonWomen If your answers indicate even a potential problem with alcohol, you are not alone. The shame of quietly living with a secret dependence or just beginning to question such, are both jarring realities. You will need help and support to even consider, much less make the changes necessary to find health in this area of your life. In Charleston, we are so blessed to have a free, open, nonintimidating option for women only: Booze Free Babes. Booze Free Babes began as a Facebook community, initiated and led by Ellen Frazier. Frazier, a local mortgage broker, created the group she needed when she was beginning to explore the idea of what a sober life would look like for her. She wanted a community — friends, activities and a safe place to explore. Their mission states, “Booze Free Babes is a vibrant sisterhood dedicated to empowering women to live a sober and fulfilling lifestyle through personal development, connection and support. We believe in the strength of community and the power of self-discovery, offering a safe and nurturing space for women to explore their true potential, embrace sobriety and thrive in every aspect of their lives. Together, we inspire and uplift one another, celebrating each step of the journey towards a life of freedom, joy and authenticity.” Frazier’s vision is for this group to be a lessintimidating option than Alcoholics Anonymous, a place for women only, to gather and share, to explore and to find safety and camaraderie. Even a desire for moderation is a worthwhile path to explore, and Booze Free Babes is here for that journey too. In addition to the thriving Facebook group Booze Free Babes and @ boozefreebabeschs on Instagram, they have a podcast: Booze Free Babes Podcast on Instagram and YouTube. Give them a follow, check out what they have going on. It’s a small step and costs you nothing. It’s helpful to just acknowledge the spectrum of alcoholism, as the stigma of what an “alcoholic” looks like adds to the problem. Along with the typical stereotype of the “drunk in the gutter,” on one end of the spectrum, the concept of “high-functioning alcoholic” on the other also exists. One does not have to be totally given over to alcohol to struggle and to therefore have room for improvement in this area. The “Alcoholic Mom” concept is a cultural force that should be questioned at the very least. We want our children to see us as strong, capable women, guided by our intentional choices and decisions, not swept up in survival mode, looking to alcohol or other unhealthy coping mechanisms to survive our lives. We are better, and we can do better. Let’s commit to that in 2025. Charleston Women in Wellness Our mission is to deliver the best possible dental care for infants, children, teens and kids with special healthcare needs. Appointments are fun and easy. Smiles are contagious. Our team are experts at gentle visits. We teach healthy habits. 843-771-2003 | KnightsvilleKids.com 852 Orangeburg Rd, Summerville, SC 29483
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