I also have a hard time dealing with people and used to turn to the bottle instead. One morning, out of nowhere, I drank my usual bottle and then just could not stop. I kept driving back to get more and went on a few day benders as well, the only thing stopping me was sleep. Alcoholism is progressive.
By staying sober, you'll start finding new alternatives to your problems, little by little.
Stressed? Try meditation. Can't sleep? Exercize more. Shy? Only talk to people who make you comfortable, and learn to be happy alone sometimes...just some ideas. The thing is if you keep turning to alcohol to fix everything, you won't find other ways to cope.
Coming to this board frequently has helped me lots. Hope you find a good plan soon
