Getting out of the rut to help Anxiety

[Joels]

Hi everybody, I’ve recently been diagnosed with anxiety. I’ve only been seeing a Psychologist for three months now but one of the things that has been pointed out is alcohol has been a way of coping with my anxiety over a long period of time. My question I would like to ask others out there is how you have changed your habits with alcohol or drugs in a way that has helped you and your anxiety? I’ve just turned 30 and am starting to realise now that my weekends of partying need to stop for my mental healths sake.

[CJames]

Hi Joel,

Good to see you have sought help with your psychologist, it's the best thing to do.

Have you discussed your alcohol with your psychologist? The 'general' consensus with anxiety and alcohol is that it can worsen anxiety, though everyone is different.

Regarding the consumption, I don't suggest just stopping partying; it's about safe alcohol consumption and control. Everyone likes to get out, and I think you'll agree going to parties would be good with your anxiety and social interaction.

Here are some related threats from 2014:

Anxiety after night out drinking? http://www.beyondblue.org.au/connect-with-others/online-forums/anxiety/anxiety-after-night-out-drinking-

Drinking anxiety http://www.beyondblue.org.au/connect-with-others/online-forums/anxiety/drinking-anxiety

Anxiety and alcohol equals despair http://www.beyondblue.org.au/connect-with-others/online-forums/anxiety/anxiety-alcohol-equals-despair

Anxiety, depression and alcohol http://www.beyondblue.org.au/connect-with-others/online-forums/anxiety/anxiety-depression-and-alcohol

Best of luck mate,

C.

[blondguy]

Hi Joels

Welcome to the forums and good on you for posting too!

Being diagnosed with anxiety disorder is such a let down. I understand as I was diagnosed with 'it' too back in the 1980's and its a pain

As you have mentioned there are many people that use alcohol as a band aid. I used to have too much when I was diagnosed and focused on my weekly therapy to find some peace instead

It depends too what a person is drinking. I gave up spirits when I was diagnosed and had a few beers now and again listening to music at home. The issue is that alcohol is a 'depressant' so after the initial good feeling the alcohol will drag our mood down and exacerbate any anxiety or depressive state

Some of the meds dont agree with alcohol either so its always a good idea to have a chat with your GP and just ask the question about having a couple of occasional drinks is okay with your medication (if you are on any meds that is)

Can I ask if your anxiety is severe as in anxiety attacks? My anxiety was chronic and started when I was 23

The more frequent the counseling the better our recovery will be Joels.

The forums are a Safe and non judgement free place for you to post Joels. Your privacy is paramount and no one will judge you

I hope you can stick around the forums. The good news is that anxiety symptoms do decrease with ongoing counseling 🙂

My kind thoughts

Paul