Identity [3 films, 4’45”]
Dr. David McCartney describes that as his drinking problem was becoming worse he developed the ability to split what he was drinking from what his patients with alcohol problems were drinking. The amounts were not that different. However, David rationalised that he couldn’t have a problem, as he was in a suit and seeing patients.
David’s doctor identity also impacted in a negative way on his recovery when he attended a residential rehab. He had to dismantle the thin ‘veneer’ he was using, the doctor identity, as a mask and a shield. This was a difficult process, particularly as a lot of his self-esteem as wrapped up in this identity.
In the final clip, David emphasises the importance of having the identity of being a recovering person, as well as having the identity of being part of a community of recovering people.