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Mental health

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Anxiety and self medication

2 replies

Dizzywizzy00 · 20/10/2024 16:17

For many years, I found myself battling severe anxiety, often feeling trapped by overwhelming thoughts and physical symptoms and insomnia. To cope, I turned to alcohol, convinced that a drink each night after the kids fall asleep, would help quiet my mind enough to fall asleep. Initially, it worked. But as the nights turned into a routine, I realized that the relief was fleeting, and the dependence was growing. My husband has started to catch on to the amount and there has been a few comments here and there, but he also drinks most nights so he knows he can't say anything further. This habit has then caused even more anxiety. For those who have faced similar challenges, what has helped you find healthier ways to manage your anxiety?

OP posts:
Eyesopenwideawake · 20/10/2024 18:29

The best way of dealing with anxiety is to find when and why it started - what happened 'many years' ago? Once you've dealt with the root cause, or accepted it no longer exists/applies to you, you won't need a coping mechanism.

PiggieWig · 20/10/2024 18:33

It sounds trite but I am always a lot more mentally well when I cut alcohol out for an extended period of time. That’s not a judgement. I’ve been where you are and it can be habitual, but after the first week or 10 days I find in sleeping better.
Meditation is part of my daily routine now, and that really helps. It took a while to be able to really lean into it without my thoughts racing away but I’m glad I persevered.
Ive also found CBT helpful, and any craft/arty stuff that I can get engrossed in, crochet, colouring etc

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