Hi JADIII
As you say the fact that you spend so much time here and on other sites shows you are looking to change your life. Well done.
Things really do get better, I only realise this now on day 2 after 5 months without a drink. A few binges and my mind is a complete mess compared to what it was.
I'm sure if you stop so will your hypochondria and negativity.
Don't be afraid of renouncing it. I went out on Saturday and it was my first night in some busy city centre pubs. I realised that the majority of people out getting wasted were complete idiots including some of the guys I was with. I left them in the end and realised that I hadn't really been missing anything and that I had actually become quite accustomed to my new sober life.
You will see what I mean in a few months. Just don't think you can go back and moderate. I read it so many times on here others warned me but I thought I'm not like them they are alcoholics!