I used alcohol for many reasons, one reoccurring reason was to stop thought. It did work for a very long time. I was too ashamed to seek help for my mental disturbances so I kept on self-medicating. The problem of course was that alcohol was a greedy and needy remedy: eventually I found myself either drunk or recovering from drinking. It took over more and more of my life.
I try to sit with pain now and realize that my thoughts are temporary and will soon pass. I meditate often now and really enjoy just experiencing life As it comes, sober.