Help! Anxiety and depression have led me to alcoholism and its accompanying health problems

[decibelx]

I've been drinking for roughly 10 years due to depression caused by my panic disorder. Became an alcoholic about halfway in. I would say my alcohol dependency is pretty strong as I used it to self-medicate instead of going on antidepressants.

Last weekend I went on a bender and my liver has been sore since. I've not felt this dull pain under my rib cage for a long time; the last time was in 2017. It went away after a couple of days back then.

Due to this, I've stopped drinking for two days now. At what point do I take myself to see the doctor?

[blondguy]

Hi decibelx

Welcome and good on you for having the courage to post too!

I understand your pain as the mega anxiety I used to have started in 1983 when I was 23....It can be dark place to be in for sure with the horrible symptoms of anxiety which can sometimes lead to depression as you mentioned

You have done well for being at zero drinks for two days....that takes strength...Good1

Just so we can provide more effective support...can I ask how intense your panic attacks are? Example...do you have them often...daily...weekly?

From my own experience I would start with making a double appointment with your GP.....now

the forums are a safe and non judgemental place for you decibelx.

any questions are always welcome....there are many gentle people on the forums that can be here for you

we are listening

Paul

[blondguy]

Sorry to double post you decibelx...

I forgot to mention an important point if thats okay

The earlier we seek help from our doctor the better our recovery will be

have a good day....Paul

[Sam_A_M]

Hi There - my experience has been so similar to what you describe. One thing I did learn was you are safer to taper, rather than suddenly stop drinking. I hope this helps somewhat - the anxiety actually seems to get worse with alcohol......even though it gives a brief sense of relief. Good luck with your battle - it's not easy!!!

[decibelx]

Hi all! Thank you for the responses.

Paul, my panic attacks are more frequent now than they were before. In fact, it was only a year ago that I was diagnosed with panic disorder with agoraphobia. I don't know if I just wasn't aware of the attacks prior to being diagnosed or if they only started happening in my late 20s. Alcohol used to distract me from being fully submerged in them but the last 2-3 days they have been coming on real strong. I often feel light headed, short of breath and experience a feeling similar to dissociation.

I followed both your advice and made an appointment with my GP which I will be going to this weekend. Will update this thread once I get the diagnosis.

[decibelx]

The doctor says it is potentially a UTI affecting my kidneys. I was given antibiotics for the week so we'll see how it turns out. I was advised to do an ultrasound as well so I'm booking an appointment for that.

[bluenight]

Hey Deciblex

I used to drink a lot for the same reason, I just wanted to tell you there is a better way.

you can feel good and whole and improve your life without it.

A good start is to change your eating if you haven’t already. Exercise, vitamins and minerals that improve mood will reduce cravings for alcohol.

For me personally I’ve changed so many things in my life and I’ve gradually over the years stopped drinking. You can feel so much better and happier without it.

[decibelx]

Hey, sorry about the late response.

I wholeheartedly agree with you and hope to be able to make a start somewhere. It's just so hard when you've been reliant on it for so long. I used it as a crutch to avoid the emptiness of my life as I'm away from family and I don't have any close friends.

[monkey_magic]

Hi decibelx,

Good on you for reaching out wanting a change.

I hit the bottle, &/or cask years back and when it bcame a problem started going to Alcoholics Anonymous. I highly recommend them.

It could also help you with the emptiness your feeling bcas you'll be around others. You could make some close friends there you never know.

Alcohol is a depressant. I rem feeling depressed and anxious. It was so bad. It was black.

When I spoke up at AA I got a lot of support and stopped drinking. There were munchies at the end which helped and I loved listening to other ppls stories. It was a powerful experience for me. Ppl power/ support really helped me overcome being reliant on alcohol.

These days I might drink once a week!

So it is doable...if I can you can...if Joe Blow can U can.

Reach deep inside yourself and want it will all of your being. There is a better way.

Damaging yourself isn't always the answer to life's problems.

Heck, I'm damaged and it isn't fun! For other reasons but that's a whole other story.

I hope you find here an encouraging and supportive place...

Sending U support!

♥️