I think I have a problem

[Lostandafraid]

Just looking for some advice. I'm beginning to think I have an alcohol problem.

I don't think I drink alot but there are times when I don't have an off switch. I don't seem to be able to stop at a point I feel slightly tipsy.

On those nights, which aren't often I seem to black out, at the time I feel fine and not too drunk but the next day I have periods of time missing. I think I fall asleep in the toilet. I get mean, teary or both.

My partner is it the end of his tether, it tends to happen when I'm with him, usually because I feel safe and protected so ain't watching what i drink as much but I've just ruined another night out and he's giving me the silent treatment

If your behaviour when drunk is affecting your relationship, then it is a problem. Being blackout drunk is also an indication of an issue. One of the alcohol score questions at the GPs is, words to the effect of, ‘have you ever forgotten what happened the night before because of your drinking?’ Another is ‘has a friend, relative or healthcare professional suggested you cut down your drinking?’ I’m betting DP has.

Do your nights out always revolve around alcohol? Could you socialise differently to help reduce ott drinking?

Thanks for replying

Nights out don't always revolve around alcohol, and there are plenty of times I don't drink. Or times I drink more and don't feel the effects.

I think my shame and annoyance with myself is that I've ruined what had been a great day out.

At home I don't have any issues, I tend to make much weaker measures. It's that knowing when to stop or have a couple of rounds of soft drinks. I also don't like not being able to remember everything the next day or letting my partner down.

I'm thinking the better option would just be to not drink and hope he doesn't find me boring.

I haven't had anyone suggest I cut down it really doesn't happen often but once is often enough.

Why would he find you boring if you stop drinking? From what you're saying it sounds like he probably spends more time with you when you're sober than when you've been drinking so he's got to like the sober you. Plus it very much sounds like neither you nor he likes the drunk you. A happy sober person is much, much more pleasant to be around than an emotionally volatile drunk.

Thank you, I hadn't considered it that way.

I struggle socially so find a couple of drinks help but on reflection that discomfort is more bearable than how ice been feeling the last couple of days.

Ultimately I think it's better all round to abstain and hopefully with time my oh sees an improvement and can forgive me