Great topic!
A few years ago I was seeing a counselor / addiction specialist and he told me this same theory. I know longer see him but this theory has always made sense to me. When I felt anxious or had problems in life I would drink. It was my answer to everything including curing boredom and having "fun". I too no longer like big crowds and it is hard to deal with emotions as I am not used to having too. The other day I was upset with someone and found myself being really sarcastic and quite childish, this theory immediately came into my mind once I was home and started thinking about my actions.