Has anybody battled with substance abuse?

[dfekt86]

I won't go into detail but I've been dealing with alcohol for quite some time.

The first red flag should have been when I went all the way to NYC and got so drunk I almost fell asleep on the sidewalk at a LH show. 2005 I think? 19 at the time and no better at 29.

Just wondering if anybody here has battled this kinda thing. I just got out of detox but am super anxious. It's pretty tough.

Sorry if this is a weird post. Just trust the people here. Sorry.

[suzy]

Lots of people in my family have this problem and as a result, I have gone to Alanon to learn to cope. Have you thought of AA where when you are feeling anxious rather than having a drink, there are people to call on the spot who have seen it all. To be able to get past those moments is key for your sobriety and that's just the one way I know of. I say, good for you for dealing with the issue at your age before it ruins your life,your health and alienates you from friends and family. I applaud you!!

[dfekt86]

I've done it all. AA has always rubbed me the wrong way. Rehab and detox is the easiest part. It's when I get out that's the hard part which is why I was just looking for some words of encouragement. Thanks for the reply.

My doctor just put me on valium because nothing else has really worked. I know it's a strange thing to post on a message board like this but it's such a tough battle. Just thought some people here might be able to relate.

Thx for the reply, suzy. I've been trying to kick it since I was a teenager. It's not fun.

[suzy]

Lots of people feel that way about AA. Sometimes a different mix of people in the group can make all the difference and one of the advantages is that you get a person that you like that you can call during the tough times.Perhaps a different group would suit you better. I don't think it's a strange thing to write of problems that perhaps someone could help you with on a sight like this. Why shouldn't this sight be helpful to people.? It is a kind of community after all.Be very proud of yourself for all the efforts you are making to beat this thing. Many people have been able to arrest the disease of alcoholism by doing just what you are doing.

[dfekt86]

Thanks Suzy. It means a lot.

[suzy]

( :

[Roy]

Battling alcohol as we speak and doing a god damned bad job of it.

[Roy]

And best of luck with kicking it. I am now 30, had an alcoholic father and started drinking myself when I was about 14. My red flags are the same, I've fallen asleep in public a lot, had to have people carry me home. I'm grateful to still actually be alive because It got so severe and I mixed with sleeping pills. Feels nuts even typing this shit. It's unreal. I suffer from really bad anxiety... today was bad, I'm drinking some beers. It's hard.

[rwcass]

And best of luck with kicking it. I am now 30, had an alcoholic father and started drinking myself when I was about 14. My red flags are the same, I've fallen asleep in public a lot, had to have people carry me home. I'm grateful to still actually be alive because It got so severe and I mixed with sleeping pills. Feels nuts even typing this shit. It's unreal. I suffer from really bad anxiety... today was bad, I'm drinking some beers. It's hard.

Have you ever talked to a doctor about your anxiety?

[dfekt86]

I was in just in Iran for 2 months where alcohol is illegal but as soon as I got home... well.... back to functioning alcoholic. lol.... sigh.

Anxiety causes a lot of people to drink. And drinking causes anxiety. It bloody sucks. I got to chill in rehab when I was 19 and I'm 32 now. I've made progress but still fall back into the trap. It's a hard crutch to get rid of... and people judge and think we love drinking when all we're trying to do is calm down. I hate drinking. Even Valium that my family doctor gave me for anxiety didn't help.

I won't pretend to know what you've been through Roy, but I can kinda relate. I wish you well my friend. PM me any time.

Okay now to lighten the mood...........

[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aiINuq1QFEI[/youtube]

[Smudge]

Don't give up, i was addicted to cocaine and MDMA for about 8 years....had my daughter 4 years ago and when she was born i made a promise i wouldn't touch it again.... 4 years sober from it, i barely even drink anymore.
My daughter Isabelle has Autism and at the moment is non verbal and barely sleeps so she can be awake at anytime lol. I'm not saying it wasn't hard but stay away from toxic people and try and find something positive to focus on instead.

Me i threw myself in trying to be the best dad i can for my little girl,she loves me to play guitar and sing to her even though i'm bad at it, we love swimming and the zoo.

well that me off again for a while take it easy.

Stew

[lemonhead1961]

I don't suppose marmalade counts. I eat a jar a week.