Old Habits

[Kiki lou]

I have not not smokes in 14 years and since being diagnosed with PTSD I have started again. I hate it.

Every time I buy a pack of cigarettes I say it will be the last. My husband's father died 5 years ago from lung cancer and I know he really is upset but is trying hard to not say much. I also realize I can no longer have just a drink or two.

I used to be a social drinker, maybe once a month. Always enjoyed a good buzz but now I find if I go out I just keep going in hopes that getting drunk will help. It really doesn't. I have stopped drinking altogether but feel silly that I can no longer enjoy a couple drinks with my friends.

Is anyone else finding it hard with these types of things? Is it normal?

 

[Lucycat]

Hi Kiki,

I too had given up smoking some years before I was diagnosed with PTSD and then started again around the time I was diagnosed. My husband Rory hates it, and we have a pact that I will give up when I stop my medication. But that is 3 years now!

I also struggle with alcohol. The effects of it are enhanced by my meds so I get drunk incredibly quickly. I have given up drinking for months at a time, but the truth is I enjoy a drink. I have to be really strict to have only a glass or 2 of wine and no more. It is very difficult and I don't always stick to it, the next day being full of regrets.

My therapist is unconcerned. He sees the smoking and drinking both as unhealthy coping mechanisms, but understandable. He says I am in control of my choices and I should not make these habits become a problem creating anxiety. Basically his attitude is 'don't worry about it' and 'just give up the smoking again whenever you feel ready'.

If you are able to give up the drinking completely for a while then this shows you are in control - even if it does not feel like that. Getting drunk is not a good plan, but as you feel better about yourself the feeling of being in control will improve.

 

[The Albatross]

I smoke tobacco and had a pretty serious run with problems with booze. I just keep trying to give up the tobacco and am hoping it's sooner rather than "too late" or before I have serious physical consequences.

 

[Kiki lou]

Thanks Lucycat. I have not been drunk in a few weeks and the other night went for dinner and had one beer. The smoking is more of a concern for me so I am going to just smoke less each week. My last pack lasted well over a week, so I know I am heading in the right direction.