New

[Fito]

Hello everyone. I'm new here. I have been reading some posts and truly appreciate the honesty and the bravery that people demonstrate when writing about their struggles. Your posts have helped me muster the courage to express my weaknesses and vulnerability. I'm 33, I have lived with low self-esteem and anxiety ever since I remember. I'm particular nervous and awkward around large groups, but also in any 'high stakes' situation. I try to eat a healthy diet to feel better, but when I go out with my friends (twice a month), I always end up drinking too much and feeling awful and even more fearful and anxious for the next couple of days. Drinking is a problem to me, not because I drink often, but because when I drink I don't stop until the very end of the night. I drink on those social situations to be more comfortable with myself around others. I love to hear from anyone who struggles with the same things that I do, or if you have advice to cope with the day to day fears and insecurities that my low self-esteem and anxiousness produce. Thank you and I hoe everyone has a great week!

[kateba]

Welcome to the site, this is a good place to be because as you said here folks can understand. I have the same problem with insecurity. My anxiety is also a social anxiety so I don't like being in crowds of people. Sounds like you drink too much to overcome the anxiety you have. Have you seen a psychologist or psychiatrist? I recommend both, many times they will work together in a practice. The psychiatrist can handle medications while the therapist shows you the way. Working with them together is the best way. Feel free to express your feelings on this site. You are among friends.

[Fito in reply to kateba]

Thank you! I have seen a counselor and it has helped some. I was at a much worse place a few years ago, and I have made some improvements in my lifestyle, but it's something I still have to work on.

[Hidden]

Welcome, you are not alone and you are normal especially here on this forum. Everyone has something we all have to cope with, some more than others. I understand the introvert, shy, awkward, not sure personality then drink. Extrovert, be outgoing, chatty, social, sick and hungover. I understand, we just have to accept our quirkiness. We have the world wide internet so lots of friends to make via internet, 21st century Have a drink here and there, it's legal. Find your balance, your happy. Post, reply and you are human, welcome and nice to meet you

[Fito in reply to Hidden]

Thank you for your kind words! Nice to meet you as well, and yes we have to accept who we are, but also try to improve those habits that put us down.