Single dad needs help

[Trigsbee]

I am going through ups and downs with my depression. I am a single day with four little boys. I have no car and no family nor friends. My family lives about 200 miles away from me. My brother is all I have. I struggle with alcohol .I want to change everything I am tired of being depressed tired of having anexity attacks with chest pains tired of drinking. I want to be a good father. Just looking for some encouragement today and maybe some resources. The one good thing have beside my awesome boys is that I have a great job but I am afraid with all my crap I might screw that up. Please help

[gerg]

Do whatever you have to, to get sober. You stand a very good chance of losing the good things you listed, if you continue to use. Mental health issues are often related to substance abuse, they don't get better if you drink.

I know this because I was there! I got sober, then I worked on my anxiety and depression. I almost lost everything, I lost my freedom for 4 years. This may sound extreme, but I was you at one point. You have everything to gain by seeking help. That good job will be gone anyways, if you don't.

At minimum find an AA group near you. They are great support and you may even get step #1 done. The AA program is not about not drinking, it's about living right. Talk to people in your life, communication is key to making changes.

I won't lie, this stuff isn't easy, but it is worth every bit of effort times ten. Be honest with yourself and others, and you will live a content life.

[Trigsbee in reply to gerg]

Thank you

[JLH96]

AA is such a fantastic organization I highly recommend going to a meeting, there are tons of meetings per day at different times in case your schedule is busy. Do the best that you can do. I can’t imagine being in your situation. Keep your head up and remember that even if you have a setback it’s not the end of the world. Find the strength to pick yourself back up and don’t give up.

[softwaremom00]

It is hard being a single parent. For sure it is a good idea to give up Alcohol.. It might seem to make you feel better but in the end it will make you more depressed. AA is a great group. Also remember that Alcohol is a big expense.. think of all the money you can save if you drink filtered water instead.

If you miss the taste of beer.. you could try making/drinking kombucha tea instead... it can kind of have a beer taste with very little alcohol.

Talk to your doctor.. or find a doctor that you can talk to.. I think sometimes people medicate depression with alcohol. Perhaps some anti-Depressants could help.

Sending you lots of hugs and prayers!

[Trigsbee]

Thanks for the advice. I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow plus calling to get some therapy. Thanks again

[Dubba61]

Hi,Trigs, I'm sure you do a great job of looking after your Boys. I was a single Mum and i know how difficult it can be. Also, non driver n no near family. I avoided drink when my children where young as i knew it's too easy to use it as a Crutch. You say you have a good job. And thereore,it is extra important to quit the booze. I,m sure AA could help. N maybe you could put something else you enjoy in its place. When i stopped Smoking i treated myself and kids to some New clothes or a trip to the Cinema each Month, using the Cash i,d saved. It,s good that you recognise the need of stop. For you and your Boys. Best of luck with it. Dee😊✌️🌻