I didn't find SR until I was 80 days clean. I thought I was going insane. That is the brain damage from booze or other mind altering substances.
SR always said first off see a Dr. After that, it was time heals.
Lights were too bright, noises were too loud. Shadows on the highway scared me.
Brain damage. My brain may or may not have totally healed, but I am definitely used to it. I am aware of what I unknowingly did to myself and I am aware there may be underlying issues.
Drinking booze medicated those problems and now I deal with them without booze.
I suffered silently for over 2 years with off and on horrible anxiety. I boaught the audio book "From Panic to Power." It helped.
These days I am very calm on the outside. Inside I am pretty calm but still obsess more than I like, but nothing like before.
I did it med free, never going to the Dr. about my drinking. I hoped I could do it with SR and AA etc.
I have some PTSD, but I am better.
The desire to get better, suffering, and education saved me.
The med free suffering hardened me and strengthened my growth as a very proud, born again non drinker.
Booze is poison. I don't believe the hype.
Thanks.