checkmate1

on the 23rd of September I will be 5 months sober. Things are going smoothly. Yesterday I got my anti-depressant increased because there was a feeling of flatness, lowness and sadness. But it's a whole lot better than the hellish life I was living. I think the way I communicate is a lot better. I was told by my doctor that it takes 2 years for the brain chemicals to get back to normal after years of binge drinking. All the things are getting better in my life I'm not forcing it just letting it happen and hopefully will return to work if things keep improving but that is something for another day to think about. Anybody with anxiety issues should read this ANXIETY GETS BETTER OFF THE BOTTLE! Nothing worked in the past, medication (because I was drinking), meditation, specialists, psychiatrists, meditation, mindfullness i was at the end of the rope in regards to anxiety and thought that I would have to live this way for the rest of my life a life that would be anxiety ridden. When I do have have a panic attack I have benzos to help and it goes away like they all do. I speak my mind and if people don't like it too bad because I'm sober and I trust myself in this state of mind. I use my strong will and character to stay sober.

Nightsd

I never had a problem with alcohol so please excuse my ignorance. But as an alcoholic aren't you supposed to avoid benzos? I always thought an alcoholic using benzos would be like a heroin addict using vicodin. Aren't alcohol and benzos so similar that it is almost like drinking?

I'm not saying you're not clean at all, I'm merely asking the question because I'm clueless. Anyways it's awesome that you're doing so well!! Keep it up and things will get even better.

checkmate1

I've used benzos valium and xanax for 13 years they are used to treat anxiety and panic disorder in the short term. I was also on marijuarna in the early days and had a psychotic episode due to its use. They are precribed to me by my GP and psychiatrist they do have a calming sedating feel to them. They don't get you drunk or high unless you abuse them which I don't. I'm on anti-psychotic medication as well as anti depressants. I would be dead from suicide if it wasn't for the benzos in my opinion. Alcohol on the other hand I used to self-medicate my anxiety issues in turn making them worse. Alcohol was going to kill me thus I gave it up.

neferkamichael

Good job checkmate. Makes me feel better to see somebody making it. 75 days no crack today.