I'm starting to think I may have a drinking problem. I don't know why but I've been kind of depressed lately and always seem to turn to alcohol. The only thing stopping me from getting help is I'm afraid of everybody thinking I'm an alcoholic. I'm definitely not at that point, as I do have SOME self-control and always put important things (school, work, family, etc) first. As dumb as it sounds, drinking just makes me feel better than people do sometimes. I don't know, should I just go get help?
Substance abuse is a serious matter. Often times, it occurs when someone is dealing… or rather not dealing with some traumatic issues in their life. The thing you seek for comfort becomes a dependence as you rely on it to an unhealthy degree to feed into (and excuse) your avoidance. Right now you’re coming to terms with your situation and you must’ve noticed something in your behavior you found alarming. Anon, I and others can not (and should not) think poorly of you for desiring good health. In fact, I’m proud of you! It might sound cliche but it is true, acknowledgment of a problem is the first step to recovery. If you truly think you’re forming a dependency on Alcohol, then seek help.
The NCADD has a good list of behaviors you should review if you suspect you or a loved one may have become an addiction to alcohol and other drugs.
From there, it’s up to you to seek help if you truly believe you need it. You have options and you can succeed. Many people have overcome substance abuse and many more will do so in the future. It can be a long road for recovery, and sometimes people slip into bad habits, falling off the wagon as it were.
AA is one common answer. You go to group meetings and use a buddy system of sorts to help you on your journey towards sobriety. However, there are some strong criticisms against it. There are of course alternatives to AA that was born out of those criticisms and they are a simple Google search away. Otherwise, in my personal opinion? Seek a behavioral therapist. They are trained specifically to help people change negative behaviors and more so, they can help you deal with underlining causes that made you turn to the bottle as a source of comfort instead of dealing and overcoming your issues. Even if you aren’t physiological addicted to it, this might be a good way to find a healthier outlet to whatever it is that is really bothering you Anon. Please, follow up with me on this one. I’ve seen what substance abuse can do to a family, it’s frightening and dramatic for everyone involved. I truly and sincerely hope you find the answers you’re looking for.
