Journal - Tendencies of addiction?

[NotImportant]

Swim wouldnt really call himself an addict, but he realised something scary last night. Swim hadnt been drinking for a couple of months, but this friday he got drunk and high and all that. On sunday night, swim was trying to get some sleep and all he was thinking about was getting his drink on. Swim didnt tho, but it was all he could think about and he didnt get any sleep because of it. Swim has also noticed this earlier, when he starts to drink, he usually binge drinks, both with friends and alone. Mostly alone.

One of the reasons swim likes to drink, is that he opens up more then and he also has a lot of feeling he never lets out. Its such a relief to drink and get feelings out of his system.

But this feeling kind of scared swim, the fact that he was thinking about it and couldnt sleep because of it. Swim is starting to think he might have some addictive tendencies. What do swiy think?

[DAVOTHEGOD]

I would say that this is definately a sign of addiction, but you know, I live with an with a severe alcohalic and trust me self restraint is your biggest friend. It seems like you know what you like and you know how to prevent abuse of it. As for swim, swim thinks about pot all the fucking time SWIM LOVES POT, however swim excersizes self control. For example: Swim only smokes fifteen minutes before work this way the ride there is much more pleasurable and usually the first hour of work is way more fun. I know its not a serious response but, Id say if you like to drink, do it when it wont hinder your function in society. The alcohalism Ive seen in my life is severe man just keep it under control and if you cant.....if you absolutely have to give in to your urges then YOU MUST STOP DRINKING ALL TOGETHER.

[orangerain]

SWIM can relate. Ever since SWIM was introduced to drinking alcohol by friends, SWIM turns to alcohol whenever SWIM isn't feeling very well. If not alcohol SWIM loads up with lots and lots of coffee. SWIM believes alcohol/coffee helps her keep focused. Really.

SWIM hasn't drank for 6 days now, though. Since SWIM feels like she might have addictive tendencies towards alcoholism, SWIM has been practicing self control. Successful, as of the moment. SWIY should do the same.

[missparkles]

Using alcohol to loosen up, feel more comfortable with others, and binge drinking, are all indications of potential addiction.
No one can say if you'll become addicted, but the fact that you're worried about it enough to ask for advice is also another strong indication.
But it's good that you've realised now that you might have a problem in the future, if you continue.
That's the first step, but its also the most important one.
Is it possible to talk to someone, work out how you can deal with the confidence issue, the need to drink to feel comfortable with others?
To be honest, this is more common than most people realise, we all feel uncomfortable in new social settings, when we have to meet new people.
You look around, and everyone else seems so confident.
Don't let that fool you, most are feeling just as uncertain as you are.
One technique I've used, is walk up to someone who's stood alone, and say "God, I always feel nervous when I don't know anyone."
Chances are they'll agree, tell you they feel the same, and you'll have made a friend right there. This also provides much needed proof, that you can deal with these situations without the need to drink. It actually boosts your confidence, each time you do it. The more you do it, the easier it gets.
In a pub or bar, obviously you don't talk to just anyone, but there are other techniques to deal with those situations too.
If your anxiety goes deeper than that, or your alcohol use has caused the anxiety, then talking to someone, maybe a counselor, would be beneficial.
One word of caution, if you do drink heavily again, never just stop. This can cause bad W/D symptoms, it's always best to be safe, check it out with a doctor.
People who do over use alcohol can sometimes become deficient in important vitamins and minerals (B6 a major one) so if you don't feel your normal self after a few weeks, it might be good to have your health checked, again, to be on the safe side.
I think it's awesome that you actually asked for advice, that takes courage and strength, well done.
Sparkles.