Stopping drinking alcohol?

Question

I'm 22 and have basically been battling alcoholism since I turned 18. Whilst most of the time my drinking is tame, I have the occasional binge which honestly leaves me feeling so low I can't see the point anymore. I know that quitting altogether is the fool-proof way to end this ridiculous cycle, but I seem to always end up 'allowing' myself a few beers, and gradually building up to the very same situation as before - one horrible binge which leaves me void of all hope, sat here as right now trying to figure out what to do about my reoccurring problem.

I have a brilliant husband who supports me through these pointless cycles, but I really feel like he deserves more. His family has been very affected by negative alcohol experiences and I don't want to be another chapter in that miserable book.

Does anyone else have similar experiences? I don't even do anything that awful when I'm drunk - I just feel this pang of regret and shame which stays with me a few days. I recently relocated from England to the US and I feel very much like I can't make friends and build a life whilst this problem persists.

Answer 1

At least you are wise to address this problem at such a young age and I comend you for that.  

Alcohol is an intoxicant and seriously effects judgement.  

Answer 2

Speaking as a recovering alcoholic.  I can tell you that if you continue to abuse alcohol your situation  will suffer, it will make it harder to sustain a permanent relationship.  It's hard to quit and my wife's solution was rehab and hospitalization for 2  long months.  I now have pretty much dried up, except for occasional wine with a big meal, or two or three beers spread out over the day.

  The rules are no smoking, no drinking or no car.  I now don't take my freedom for granted, and if I get caught drunk again, or stoned I expect to lose my freedom.  "Freedom  is not free."  

Answer 3

I think you've already answered your question, stop drinking. I understand your situation, i've been there too and to stop drinking and then gradually build back up to the binge is indeed what I've done. Take a long break and figure out who exactly you are and who you want to be. Once you're happy with all other aspects of your life you'll be able to have a few drinks and then stop and if you do binge, you won't have the same regret and sense of guilt.. AA is also a great way to go if you feel you need that much support. Hang in there, you'll make friends and build a life in the U.S. soon.  

Answer 4

Get in touch with your local AA group or an online version, the only requirement for membership in AA is the desire to stop drinking - try it