Episode 10 - Clarke Carlisle

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"Talk To Somebody... The Right Somebody." | Listen UP Episode 10 - Clarke Carlisle

In Listen UP Episode 10, former professional footballer and ex-PFA chairman Clarke Carlisle shares boundary rules that protect sobriety, highlighting how to stop digital pile‑ons at the door, and how one daily script steadies mood swings:

Clarke Carlisle unveils four low‑mood stabilisers that transform “here we go again” into “I’m safe for tonight”:

  • Keep one sentence ready for invites: “Not tonight, early start” — no debate, no guilt
  • Phone in another room after 9pm: alarm on a cheap clock; messages wait till morning
  • Pre‑prepare a 3‑name call list: if you're struggling, call the first name on the list — don’t wait for the “right” words
  • Make routines effortless with the “same day” rule: same dinner, same bedtime, same check‑in — a bad day doesn’t cancel self-care

...and shares one number that predicts relapse more than motivation.

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About the author

Eddie Clarke

In recovery personally, Eddie is the Outreach and Aftercare Manager for Abbeycare Group. Eddie also hosts our podcast, Listen UP.

Day to day, Eddie oversees our aftercare programme, and the assertive outreach and family teams in Abbeycare.

Each year, Eddie spearheads our annual Recovery Gathering, celebrating the achievements of Abbeycare graduates in person.

Last Updated: December 10, 2025