Ally Garber, a 41-year-old advocate for individuals living with autism, shares her journey of overcoming alcohol dependency fueled by the pressures of parenthood and personal struggles. Initially finding solace in “wine mom” culture, Garber eventually realized she was masking deeper issues with alcohol. Her battle with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder led her to rely on alcohol as a coping mechanism.
Despite being able to temporarily abstain from alcohol during her pregnancies, Garber found herself increasingly turning to alcohol for stress relief after her son’s autism diagnosis. The normalization of alcohol consumption among mothers, as highlighted in wine mom culture, made it easier for Garber to blend in and function seemingly well in her daily life.
The turning point for Garber came in 2018 when her mother’s terminal illness exacerbated her drinking habits. This event prompted her to seek help and make significant lifestyle changes, including taking up running. Overcoming the shame associated with her alcohol dependency, Garber sought inspiration from other women’s stories of recovery and decided to share her journey on social media to raise awareness and provide support to others.
By publicly addressing her sobriety and challenging wine mom culture, Garber aims to empower women to confront their alcohol consumption and prioritize their mental and physical well-being. Through her advocacy work and personal experiences, Garber hopes to set a positive example for her children and inspire others to seek help if needed.