My Way Out: One Woman's Remarkable Journey in Overcoming Her Drinking Problem and How Her Innovative Program Can Help You or Someo

I never heard of the book until it was mentioned in a Wall Street Journal article in mid August '05. I quit drinking a week or so before reading it and immediately got in the program. It works and is a great alternative for those of us who are not fans of the AA thing. The program is based on the emerging scientific and objective research on brain chemistry. The author is not afraid to adapt as new evidence arrives. Excellent on-line support forum as well.

First, even if you are in AA, this is a must read. This program addresses alcoholism not only from a psychological standpoint, but as a physiological problem that many rehabs and programs don't address adequately. The recommendations in this book have done wonders for my alcohol cravings, and for the first time in my life, I think I may be able to live without this substance that I have come to love and depend on so much. This program gives you the option to drink moderately or be abstinent and certainly does not have a negative view towards AA, which means that I think those of you who are struggling in AA could combine this program with that one and see things improve greatly. There isn't a magic cure, but if you have motivation and follow this program to the tee, I guarantee you will see the results you are hoping for. Good luck! **Edited to Add** 1/7/08 It's now my belief that working this program lead me to find that I had no choice but to quit drinking and follow AA and all of its spiritual components. I believe that we all have a path to acceptance that we cannot drink anymore, and this was part of my journey.

Finally, a book and a program that tackles the physiological reasons for alcohol dependency and don't preach abstinence as the only way to deal with it. For everyone that has tried and failed with AA or in-patient programs, or those (like me) who just knew they were never the type for these kinds of treatment, My Way Out is a Godsend. Roberta Jewell spent years researching the underlying causes of her own dependency, and through personal trials of new treatments, developed a comprehensive program that helps you "rewire" your brain to kick dependency once and for all. This book is well researched and its recommendations based upon a number of top-notch (think Harvard caliber) clinical trials involving both herbal and off-label uses of more traditional drugs in curbing alcohol cravings. But, it also emphasizes nutritional supplements, as those with alcohol dependency are typically woefully lacking in some of the most basic vitamins, minerals and amino acids. (And restoring proper balance is key in keeping cravings at bay.) Exercise, nutrition and some really great self-hypnosis CDs round the program out. I was a very heavy drinker and quit cold turkey. Four days later, in some desperation to find help, I found this book. I immediately started on the program and immediately found relief in my cravings. I have not felt this good in years, and everyone tells me I look fantastic. I am drinking moderately and know that I can have an occasional glass of wine, without feeling like I'm going to spiral back into my old ways. It's a fantastic feeling. It's a NORMAL feeling. Part of the beauty of this program is that it is highly customizable to the individual. If you choose to be abstinent, it works for you. If you chose to be a moderate drinker, it works for you. If some aspects of the program work more than others for you, then you focus more energy in those areas. There is also a wonderful online community of people who are going through the program at the same time where you can chat, ask questions and generally support each other. If you are finally ready to stop letting alcohol control your life, you absolutely must read this book.

Deborah McCorkle, Herbalist (Alaska) As an herbal and nutritional consultant I've researched for years to find a workable, affordable program to help people with alcohol cravings. This book has put together the best of all the herbal and nutritional supplements, simplified down so people AREN'T overwhelmed by huge handfuls of expensive supplements 3 times per day (as I've found in some plans). Her nutritional plan is well thought out, affordable, and very easy to follow. The addition of the latest pharmaceutical research and powerful hypnotherapy rounds out a very effective, workable program. This book is easy to read and feels like reading a story from a good friend: full of honesty and humor. 'My Way Out' is a wonderful tool that should be in the hands of any Dr. working with alcohol-related health problems, or any person struggling with alcohol and their family members. Roberta Jewell has put together a concise, proven, easy to follow program that let's people know it's NOT THEIR FAULT! It takes away the awful blame in our culture that keeps people buried in shame and blocks them from seeking help. There IS a bio-chemical reason for people's drinking problems. There is HOPE and and there is help.

This book is going to bring about revolutionary change for the problem drinker - all over the world. Unlike other programs, Jewell's program offers the possibility of moderate alcohol consumption for some, and abstinence for others. For over 20 years alcohol had a fierce grip on me. I was an overachieving professional, from a dual alcoholic household, medicating my stress every night. I knew I was doing exactly as my parents had done (at least I didn't have kids), but I couldn't get out from under the monkey's grip. I tried everything and nothing worked. I was in agony inside, until I found My Way Out. Jewell's program gave me just the answer I needed. Jewell's book is a gift from God, and Dr. Garcia's forward is written with an immense amount of compassion for those in need of help with this medical issue - she's a true gem. Jewell's research, writing skills, sense of humor, and common sense plan make success easy to attain. This is a life saving book for anyone who struggles with a drinking issue and is ready for change.