Boredom and Alcohol

[Otto]

Sometimes I get bored at night and this causes anxiety which in turn leads me to watch TV and drink.  I really don't think I'm addicted (because I am able to not drink for long periods without problems).  It's more of a psychological crutch.  Does anyone else experience this?  Does anyone have any advice on how to avoid the urge to drink in these situations?

[ocdengineer]

I used to drink a lot and it does help with anxiety.  The problem is it also slowly destroys your liver and can really cause problems in your life at home if it gets out of hand.  In moderation, alcohol is not an issue, but if being used as a crutch, your likelihood of becoming an alcoholic goes up substantially.  Personally I quit when my wife found out she was pregnant with our first child.  I still drink every so often, but not in excess.  Alcohol works a lot like benzodiazepenes, but benzos actually have less side effects.  I would recommend you try and quit drinking and see what kind of anxiety you are dealing with.  If it is too much to handle then find an anxiety disorder specialist and see what he recommends.  Personally, quitting for me was easy other than the fact that I had to deal with my pre-existing anxiety disorder.

Good luck,
OE

[hopelessromantic]

Since I had a party and have lots of alcohol in the house now (which I usually don't) I find it easier to come home and fix myself a drink if I've had a bad day.....

[NightOwl]

With me alcohol actually increases anxiety.  I panic if I have any hangover whatsoever and it also absolutely DESTROYS my acid reflux situation.

I'm so sick of everythinhg I am tempted to get addicted to some things because I am running out of options.

[hopelessromantic]

Don't do that, buddy.....do what I did, get yourself a hobby to take your mind off stuff....I went back to practicing piano, a major hurdle for me....bought 2 hard song books and am forcing myself to learn the songs....it works well....maybe dive in deeper into your basketball/free throw shots....make a goal and work towards it...maybe ___ shots a day or ____ shots in a row.....

[NightOwl]

I do have basic goals for those.  Maybe I should find another hobby also.  My mom said I should see if there are some sort of clubs near here...