Anxiety/Isolation Help

[SolarisTron]

Not doing so great. It's four in the morning, the end of January and about four more months of relentless rain, dark clouds and stormy weather. Trying to get the energy to get two cats. Very isolated and with only my insane thoughts to keep me company. I wish I could go back to drinking, but I can't. It's so hard!

[paint1018]

First I'll say I applaud you for being honest that you want to go back to drinking but that you can't and won't. It takes an incredible amount of strength to be able to resist the urge to go back to unhealthy behaviors, so that's honestly really inspiring to hear and please hold on to that.

Isolation is a very tormenting thing. I know we don't at all have the same experiences so I can't begin to understand your struggles, but I will say in my experience when I'm depressed and super anxious that usually drives me to isolate myself even more, which everyone always says is what you shouldn't do, but easier said than done right. Being in a state of isolation I think it's definitely important for you to find a way to combat that, whether its adopting a cat or two, chatting with people on this site, or having a friend or family member come visit you for lunch. Even something small here and there I really think would make a difference, even if not a big difference, it's doing something good for yourself and a reminder that you don't deserve to be isolated.

[SolarisTron in reply to paint1018]

Thanks for your response, it is appreciated. I am starting to believe the vast majority of problem drinkers suffer from depression, anxiety or some kind of trauma and use as a form of self-medication. Of course, many people just abuse for many years until they have a problem. But, damn, who else would do that to their mind and body? Even after nearly a month now I feel so much better. I have no higher power except my conscience. What motivates me really is the morning after, that is, without a hangover. Isolation's a real hell, but being around the wrong people is a much worse hell. So, let's see about those damn cats. Spring will be here soon and everything gets better after that.