BettyB

Hello my name is Betty and I'm 22 years old. I have been a heavy drinker for almost 5 years, but it really took over me about 2.5-3 years ago when I also started abusing cocaine and I'm still struggling with both. I have been sober exactly for a week now. The longes I have been sober for is for 6-7 weeks then I relapsed last December; a month ago I went into detox for a week at CAMH and felt better actually, but on th 3rd day out I started going on marathon binges again. Now I've decided to go into a 21 day program, but in order to get in I have to go to meetings at CAMH and today is going to be my second, but already missed 2, because I was in no condition to go anywhere. I really want to try to stay sober, because I can not handle that misery anymore and this addiction is ruining me and my life.
I started going to addictions specialist since last september and I'm taking now camprall for cravings and gabapentin(for anxiety). I was taking Naltraxone but I found it didn't really help at all.

Anyway that was enough about me, my question is for other people addicted to alcohol what medications did you find worked the best for you for cravings and depression/anxiety (as well as antidepressants) ?

doggonecarl

Welcome to SR.

I didn't take any drugs for craving. And what worked best for my depression and anxiety was getting and staying sober.

FeenixxRising

People use many different tools. But I've been trying to focus on healthy things to keep my mind off of alcohol and drugs. My best tool has been exercise. I'm not a gym rat; I just stretch and take a nice, brisk 30 minute walk each day. That helps me tremendously by reducing my stress and putting me in a nice, comfortable mood. I highly recommend it.

This site has also been a great source of help.

FamilyMan2153

I had a doctor give me a bunch of drugs to quit drinking. Drank on all of them. Not good for the kidneys or liver. The only thing that worked for me was just giving up my struggle with alcohol. Admit I was an alcoholic and start working on recovery. I know it sounds a little simple but I would have these fights with myself. Can I drink a little, just pick a day a week from now to quit, why me!! All that did was make me more depressed when I failed. Once it was clear in my head that I could never drink again it seemed like a weight was lifted.
Good luck in your journey.

Dee74

Hi Betty - welcome

I didn't take any drugs for cravings either.
I did use this technique tho - it may help you too

http://www.soberrecovery.com/forums/...e-surfing.html

The best thing to do, if you think meds may be the route for you, is speak with a Dr you trust.

If you think you're depressed, then I think a Dr is pretty much imperative Betty.
D

Hevyn

Welcome to a great place, Betty. I think it's wonderful you are changing your life at a young age - wish I had. You'll never regret taking this action.

least

to the family! By giving up drinking now you'll save yourself from years of regret.

BettyB

Thank you! & yeah i can imagine, hence I am trying, but i've been having such a hard time.

hypochondriac

Welcome to SR Betty

I took campral for a few months and I think it helped a bit, but just riding cravings out, knowing they will pass was still something I had to do. I don't think any combination of drugs would make cravings disappear. I decided against medication for depression and am trying counselling instead... I am sure you'll find lots of support here anyway x