Just to voice my opinion, perhaps because it is something diff't for me.
I have always had anxiety growing up, the excessive worries of presentations as a kid, the sweaty face, palms, the worries 24/7, the middle of the night wake ups. All these symptoms were with me growing up!
Alcohol for me was to get away from the realities, it soothed me and allowed me to escape and 'feel' good w/ a buzz. But the anxiety created from alcohol is totally diff't from the anxiety created from your body/environment.
I suspect heavy drinkers facing anxiety is merely withdrawal symptoms. I am a victim of both but am sobering finally, after so many years of abuse. I think the drinking worsened my tolerance, and hurt my body mentally and physically.
For people already beset w/ anxiety, it only worsens the problem.