Lived Experience Forum

[Nick77]

Hi guys,

I am Nick. I am new to this forumn. I think I got some problem with my drinking habit. I only drink occasionally though, usually on weekend, but every time I drink, I drink a lot until I got black out. Each time when I drink I could not remember what I had done at that night, which i feel very guilty and shameful the next day. I just want to get out of this drinking habit. This has really affect my relationship status. Anyone else has the same problem? And got any recommendations that could help me ? 

[Snowie]

Hi @Nick77 and welcome to the Sane forums.

I don't have a drinking problem but am commenting because we all need some support.

Do you see a psychologist or have a regular gp? You might be able to start with talking to them about your drinking habit and getting some professional help.

Again welcome and I hope you find the support and help you are looking for here. I am sure we have some members tht can relate to what you are going through.

[MrX1]

Hi @Nick77 

I have a drinking problem even though I have not touched alcohol for the last 6 years, I'm an alcoholic! 
I didn't drink every day, didn't even crave alcohol but when I went out I would start drinking to overcome my shyness and 'fit' in. The problem for me was that 1 drink was too many and 100 wasn't enough. Social drinking in a BIG way, it would lead to poor decisions, hangovers, vomiting, everything you think is disgusting when you see and smell a drunk vomiting in the gutter as you walk past. 
Then one morning I woke up hungover and smelling of grog and vomit and realised my drinking was negatively affecting my life. I admitted out loud that I was an alcoholic. Haven't touched a drop since and feel great.

You should feel proud of yourself for having the courage and wisdom to join this group. I really hope we can all help you on your road to recovery.

[Nick77]

Thanks @Snowie 

I have not got a chance to consult with my GP yet. I always thought I am in control of it as I don't think very much often, but then I just realise that I got blackouts every time I drink and that is not normal. Hence, I am looking for a way to break out this alcohol loop. 

[Nick77]

Thanks @MrX1 for sharing. 

I think I am in a similar case as your. I don't drink very often, only one a week or one every two week. The thing is once I start, I can't stop. And I am sick of this post drinking anxiety. I am looking for a way to break out this loop. I have a tried a few time to cut down or stop, but I failed. 

[MrX1]

Hi @Nick77 

You haven't failed until you stop trying. 
I found what helped me was not to put myself in situations where there was alcohol. I took all of the alcohol out of my house, I stopped going to the club and pub on weekends for about 6 months and I told all of my friends I was an alcoholic and not to try and give me alcohol or make me feel bad because I wasn't having a drink with them.

My friends were good if we were at a barbie or something they let me drink my soft drink without hasseling me.

When I started going back to the club I prepared myself and kept reminding myself, if you feel like ordering a drink with alcohol GO HOME!  It took time and setbacks but I didn't fail because I never gave up trying. Don't be the person that fails because you give up trying, be the person that continues to try despite failing and you will get there.

[Molliex]

Hi @Nick77 welcome to the forum. The fact you've recognised you have a problem is a great start - many don't, or they continue to deny it.

This government website has a list to lots of great support services/advice: https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/alcohol/alcohol-contacts

I would also start with your GP. They should be able to help get you started/point you in the right direction. As @Snowie has mentioned, getting a mental health plan and seeing a psychologist could be really beneficial.

Best of luck.