New here and unsure about my problem
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Join Date: Jul 2013
Posts: 1
New here and unsure about my problem
Hey guys. I'll try to keep this short. I have some questions, and although I know they can't all be answered, I just want your opinion. Do I sound like an alcoholic?
Really, I'm kind of new to drinking. I started [I]actually[I] drinking when I was of legal age to buy my own brew (I'm turning 24 this year), minus the occasional mixed drink per month, if even. I've typically drank 2-3 nights a week (weekends only) for the past 3 years, and never really felt like I had a problem, outside of a mild beer gut I've acquired. I typically average between 12-18 beers a week. I guess on a technicality, that's binge drinking. Red flag #1?
Last week, I was on vacation and I drank 7 nights in a row, something I've never done before in my life. I don't know exactly how much I had over all, but I know I kicked off this horrible binge with a 'It's Fourth Of July, whoohoo' mentality. On most days however, I only averaged about 3 per night. On the second to last & very last nights of my binge, I experienced horrible panic attacks, palpitations, and something that I could only describe as general dysphoria. It wasn't fun. The night after I have up drinking, I had horrible nausea, I dry heaved 4 or 5 times, and even up until now, the nausea has persisted and made this week a living hell.
So, in conclusion I just want some opinions. Do I drink a lot? Am I experiencing a mild form of withdrawal? Should I stop drinking forever? There's so much ambiguity surrounding alcoholism, that I really don't know anymore. Anyway, thanks so much for the help
Really, I'm kind of new to drinking. I started [I]actually[I] drinking when I was of legal age to buy my own brew (I'm turning 24 this year), minus the occasional mixed drink per month, if even. I've typically drank 2-3 nights a week (weekends only) for the past 3 years, and never really felt like I had a problem, outside of a mild beer gut I've acquired. I typically average between 12-18 beers a week. I guess on a technicality, that's binge drinking. Red flag #1?
Last week, I was on vacation and I drank 7 nights in a row, something I've never done before in my life. I don't know exactly how much I had over all, but I know I kicked off this horrible binge with a 'It's Fourth Of July, whoohoo' mentality. On most days however, I only averaged about 3 per night. On the second to last & very last nights of my binge, I experienced horrible panic attacks, palpitations, and something that I could only describe as general dysphoria. It wasn't fun. The night after I have up drinking, I had horrible nausea, I dry heaved 4 or 5 times, and even up until now, the nausea has persisted and made this week a living hell.
So, in conclusion I just want some opinions. Do I drink a lot? Am I experiencing a mild form of withdrawal? Should I stop drinking forever? There's so much ambiguity surrounding alcoholism, that I really don't know anymore. Anyway, thanks so much for the help
bona fido dog-lover
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: SF Bay area, CA
Posts: 99,759
The only thing that matters is whether or not drinking is causing you problems. Sounds like it is. And yes, sounds like mild withdrawal symptoms. Try giving it up for three months and see how you feel then. You may just want to stay sober longer.
Community Greeter
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: Upstate New York
Posts: 51,526
Welcome Hex! We're so glad you joined us.
I agree with what least said. If it's causing you concerns or problems that's not a good sign. Alcoholism is progressive. I once drank moderately - but over time I became completely dependent on it. It's good that you're taking a look at what it's doing to your life.
I agree with what least said. If it's causing you concerns or problems that's not a good sign. Alcoholism is progressive. I once drank moderately - but over time I became completely dependent on it. It's good that you're taking a look at what it's doing to your life.
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