Undiagnosed Ptsd and alcohol abuse

[Vannessa]

Hello, I think I suffer complex ptsd, I also have asperger syndrome, generalised anxiety disorder and depression. I tend to drink to cope with my problems, problem is once I start drinking I don't stop until I go to sleep and I usually end up in the black out stage. Sometimes this can cause problems, on Friday I went out with my boyfriend and ended up losing him. I remember these girls telling me he's not coming back cos he doesn't love me but very little else. Eventually I came to at the police station, but without my phone and my glasses. I never got either of these things returned. I'm still feeling very disturbed by this. I now know I need to stop drinking, but I also know there's so many complex issues that make me drink in the first place, that need to be dealt witb. Don't know if anyone can relate, because I'm feeling really alone and scared here.

 

[EveHarrington]

Welcome!

Before you deal with the trauma, you’ll need to stop the drinking. It’s important to stabilize before jumping into trauma processing.

I urge you to get a hold on this as soon as possible so that you don’t turn into a dual diagnosis client.

 

[Justmehere]

Hey it’s great you recognize things need to change. It can get so much better. I know things are scary right now. Hang tightly on to hope.

Why were you at the police station? If you are facing charges, then I’d suggest skipping posting about it here (you can if you want though) and talking to an attorney about it all first.

Right now, getting into counseling pronto is going to be an essential first step. Try to find one with experience in alcoholism and trauma. They are often treated together.

 

[Lilminks2]

Hello, I think I suffer complex ptsd, I also have asperger syndrome, generalised anxiety disorder and depression. I...

Complex ptsd is acquired through numerous traumas, like a child who is physically beatened by several people over time. I have complex ptsd. Drinking is a common way for people to escape. It masks the pain of trauma for a brief moment. I too drank alot and would black out often. That led to several of my abuses. Blacking out is very dangerous and leaves yourself open to more abuse and even worse because you do not have control over your mind and body. It is very scary to not remember how you got someplace. Get into counseling is the best thing you can do for your self.

 

[Supervixn]

I'd stop drinking in public as your first step if you aren't committed to quitting totally... just as a first step toward quitting and as a safety thing. I'm sorry you're struggling. I also struggle with alcohol so I get it. I really get it. Please find a therapist who can teach you tools and give you resources for both trauma and alcohol abuse. Do it for yourself, you totally deserve to be healthy. We are here to listen when you need people who understand!

Sidenote: if your bf left you out in public in that condition, you're better off without him. Whether you chose to drink yourself silly or not, it was a dangerous situation to leave a young woman in. He should've helped you home and then he could've took his stand and left. What a totallt dishonorable thing for him to do. I'm glad you're safe. Please stay safe.