Just lost my job and have a drinking problem

[Davs]

Hey am not exactly sure what to write here as it is my first time really admitting that there is anything wrong. I’ve been battling with depression for a while but have never tried to seek any help. Have also had a problem with alcohol and drugs for a few years now and was just let go from my job today. I’m worried this is going to cause me to fall further into depression and maybe get worse. Not exactly sure what I’m asking for here.. but thought maybe I would post something to see if anyone could give any advice

[Sophie_M]

Welcome to the forums, Davs, we are so glad that you've taken a big step in sharing your thoughts and feelings here with our wonderful community. Please know that you've come to a safe, non-judgemental space to talk things through and our community is here to offer as much support, advice and conversation as you need. 
It takes strength and self understanding to be able to identify when something is not right, so well done. Losing a job is never easy, we would recommend gettig some extra support if you feel like it could further push you into depression.

If you would like some help finding mental health support and getting you started with accessing support, we would recommend that you get in contact with the Beyond Blue Support Service. They are available 24/7 by phone on 1300 22 4636 or on Webchat 1pm-12am AEST on our website: www.beyondblue.org.au/getsupport  One of our friendly counsellors will be able to talk through these feelings with you and can offer support, advice and referrals.

You can also find information on support groups is available on the Black Dog Institute site here - https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resources-support/support-groups/ It might be helpful to join a support group to try and build a social network in your area.​​ if this is smething you might like to explore. 

We hope that you will find some comfort here on the forums from other users. Please feel free to keep reaching out here on your thread whenever you feel up to it.

Kind Regards.

[geoff]

Hello Davs, it takes great courage to admit you have a drinking/drug problem and I certainly admire you, simply because I used alcohol as a way to self medicate when depressed causing many problems.

I am truly sorry to learn that you've lost your job and understand the consequences, so one way to help you is that your doctor can prescribe medication that will stop the urge to drink, it also helps with drugs, but it's appropriate to have counselling with this, simply because it's an enormous change to your daily lifestyle, it can be done as many others have used this method, including myself.

If you can c/paste this in your search browser 'www.beyondblue.org.au › who-does-it-affect › men', there will be information for you.

I know and understand that to be able to overcome this doesn't happen straight away, but the tablets I've mentioned maybe of great help.

This site will also be able to help you 'www.health.gov.au › Health topics › Alcohol', as well as 'www.healthdirect.gov.au › alcoholism-at-home', I don't feel as though if I give you too much to try and read, at this point you will comprehend, I just wanted to make contact with you and feel so very sorry you have to endure all of this.

There are many other places to get help from, but it can be quite confusing to begin with, so please get back to us whenever you're ready, there are people who have also been tramped in this situation, so please don't be afraid, no one knows who you are.

Best wishes.

Geoff.