Trying to Stay Sober

[Lefty_Epee]

I started drinking in 8th grade to cope with my anxiety and my paranoia. It wasn't a lot at first, just enough to take the edge off. As high school began, I lost a lot of friends, my audio and visual hallucinations were a constant stressor, and I was getting called 'fag' every day by some random senior. So I started drinking higher concentrations of alcohol and larger quantities of it. Eventually it got to the point where I was buying bottles of vodka from a "friend" (if you can call it that), putting it in a big ass water bottle, and sipping my way through the year. I kept up with this up until the pandemic because I couldn't get anything. I had horrible shakes, cramps, bled a lot through different orifices for about three months, and was always shivering. It's been about a year since I've drank. But every time I get stressed, or anxious, or uncomfortable, I have the urge to drink. I'm in college now so it's really really hard to say no. I need classes and clubs to start so I'll hopefully be too busy.

[Ali_boo]

Well done to you for staying off the drink for a year that is such an achievement - so very proud of you 👍

[Isinatra]

My strongest suggestion to you is get to AA. Online or in person. They will help you stay sober and will keep you busy at the same time. If you aren’t involved in therapy, look in to it. They will help you with your anxiety, etc. You don’t have to go through your struggles alone. Congratulations on the strength you have portrayed. My suggestions will help you through the times when you can’t be strong. PM me if you wish. I’ve been sober since 2003.

[Hidden in reply to Isinatra]

Well done for staying sober since 2003. This is a huge achievement and you are definitely the right person to offer advice xxxx

[Hidden]

Hi

Well done for staying off alcohol. You should be very proud of yourself. You will have done your liver a lot of favours too. AA is a good idea from Isinatra as well. I have compensated cirrhosis caused by meds from my drs over the years but I do understand that what you are going through isn't just an addiction but an illness too. Please get the help you need. I do hope you get to meet some good friends in college.

Good luck in college

Lynne

[lolanell]

Please contact AA, you will find support there. Do not give in to peer pressure to drink, try studying, working, and exercise. ask for support from others. Forgot the horrible name calling person. Good Luck to you..