Just wanted to say, I can really relate to the OP here. While I've only been drinking for a few years, I always felt like it helped me come out of my shell and be so much more social. I'm in a profession where that is a must, and I felt like it helped.
I also relate to those moments right before I quit, deciding there wasn't going to be moderation...just strong drinks and a lot of them until I could pass out for half a day/12 hours. Thanks for sharing this post. Will give myself tons of self respect this weekend.