Updated: Jan. 25, 2018
Originally Published: Jan. 6, 2015
Hello! I’m Alex, and for years, I’ve been grappling with a Diet Coke dependency. Countless mornings, I’ve found myself slipping into my car, still in pajamas and unshowered, racing to the nearest convenience store for my morning hit. The urge for that fizzy refreshment is overwhelming. Once I hand over my cash and clutch that 20 oz. bottle, I breathe a sigh of relief—everything feels right again.
I can’t be the only one. There must be others like me who hear the soft call of Diet Coke—the gentle whispers that entice you, alongside visions of vibrant bottles dancing in your mind. Truth be told, this diet soda habit mirrors the grip of addiction, albeit without the severe risks associated with substances like narcotics.
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane. There was Tab—akin to the illicit drugs of the 1980s. Then came Diet Coke in 1982, swiftly making its presence felt across America. Before long, it became ubiquitous. Over the years, a dependence developed, and eventually, Coke Zero emerged as the equivalent of suboxone for those trying to kick heroin. While it might suffice in a pinch, it doesn’t replace the genuine experience.
My Diet Coke habit is relentless. If you can relate, you know deep down that it might be time to rethink your choices. Here are the five stages of this addiction:
Stage 1: Planning Ahead
When a major storm is on the horizon, while others frantically stock up on essentials, you’re preoccupied with ensuring your Diet Coke supply is sufficient. You might think, “I better grab some more,” regardless of how much you currently have. No true addict shows up to a gathering without their preferred substances. If you find yourself planning your consumption, you’re entering the first stage.
Stage 2: “I’ll Quit Tomorrow”
You devise a plan to cut back, yet you always promise yourself that tomorrow will be the day you start. This marks your transition into stage two. If you find that thoughts of Diet Coke dominate your mind, that’s a sure sign of obsession.
Stage 3: Doing It Anyway
Even in the face of health concerns, you continue indulging. You might think, “It won’t happen to me.” This mindset signifies that your addiction is intensifying. You may even find yourself hiding bottles in secret spots, only revealing them when guests are around.
Stage 4: Lying About Consumption
When questioned about your Diet Coke intake by a doctor or family member, you conveniently omit a few ounces from your total. This denial often accompanies a shift toward drinking alone, preferring solitude over social interactions.
Stage 5: Dependence
Your daily well-being hinges on your Diet Coke supply. Without it, withdrawal symptoms can arise, making the absence feel unbearable. If your dentist raises an eyebrow at your dental health, it might be time to reassess.
I often find myself teetering around stage three. If I don’t address this habit soon, I fear I’ll dig myself deeper. Having celebrated five years of sobriety from other substances, I understand the nuances of addiction. The notion of “addiction swapping” is real—trading one compulsion for another. I hope to break free from this cycle as well.
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In summary, the journey through Diet Coke addiction can mirror more serious dependencies. Recognizing the stages can help in understanding and addressing the habit. Seeking support and being aware of your consumption patterns are vital steps toward healthier choices.