Worried

[Weapon]

I've been "self medicating" by drinking I feel like I'm falling into a bad situation. The only way I can sleep is to drink 12 or 13 beers and now I've been mixing in hard alcohol. Only thing is the flashbacks and the depression seems to get worse.

 

[intothelight]

Hi John,

Alcohol is a depressant, so it is not surprising it is making you feel worse in the long run. Are you seeing a therapist or a psychiatrist? If not, I would strongly recommend that you contact a mental health professional, as they will be able to help you with the depression and sleep problems.

Take care.
Debbie

 

[Lionheart]

I have to agree with intothelight,

Alcohol is not only a depressant and will disrupt normal sleep patterns (brain wave patterns), but also seems to be a magnet for negativity. I hate to say it, but If you feel like you are falling into a bad situation then you probably are.:confused:

When I first began therapy 14 years ago, I was a heavy drinker and I was told that I would not be able to process the trauma issues if I continued to drink. Which is not what I wanted to hear, but it made me stop drinking and I am a better, healthier and happier person because of it. I too, strongly recommend a mental health professional to help you deal with the sleep and depression.

best of luck to you,
LH

 

[cherryblossom]

Hi John,

I hope it doesn't sound like I'm nagging you, but you have to stop the self medicating with alcohol. It doesn't help in the long run and will only give you more problems over time. But please get medical supervision to help you quit. Depending on how long and how much you've been drinking, it could be quite dangerous to quit 'cold turkey'. Please speak to a Doctor about quitting, safely. Once dry/sober, you can then begin dealing with your trauma, with a trauma therapist, and with the help of medications if required. Dealing with your trauma is really the only long term solution to the flashbacks, insomnia and depression, but you can't work on your trauma whilst heavily using/abusing alcohol.

I also wanted to say that you have done really well to admit that you are drinking heavily, and to realise that it is leading you to fall into a bad situation - that takes guts and is the first step towards getting some help - so sincerely well done :)

You have made the first step by admitting there is a problem, now see your Doctor, and get the appropriate support.

Wishing you well
CB

 

[The Albatross]

Glad you are recognizing that a maladaptive coping mechanism (drinking heavily) isn't working for you. Others have already explained why. Booze is a double edged sword... it cuts both ways. But when you turn it on yourself, and misuse it, you're gonna set yourself up for new problems and a big hurt. Maybe it's time to deal with your thinking about alcohol.

Glad you could give it a voice... hope you use your realization as an opportunity for positive change.