Alcohol problem?!?!?!?!?!

Serendipity
By Serendipity

I'm not sure whether or not I have an alcohol problem.

I don't *crave* alcohol. I don't have alcohol withdrawal. I don't suffer DTs and *need* to consume alcohol really early in the morning...

I'm just really incredibly stressed out. My employer is f***ing me over, messing me around, not paying me monies owed and so on and I'm really, very, incredibly stressed out as a result.

And so I find I'm increasingly turning to alcohol to relieve the stress, to make things fuzzy round the edges, I'm finding that while I don't *need* alcohol, or maybe even necessarily *want* it, I'm kind of finding I like the fuzziness effect it has on me.

And I'm kind of getting scared that I like it so much.

I'm in a very stressful situation, so in one sense it's understandable that I'm turning to a stress reliever. But I don't know whether or not I'm stepping over the line...

How do you know whether you're becoming alcohol dependent?

By oracle_angel• 28 Dec 2008 12:14
Rating: 5/5
oracle_angel

Since u r aware of the problem and its cause then u can easily divert yourself to more productive activities rather than indulging to alcohol.. you can go out with your friends.. exercise/meditation/music are another alternatives.. make urself busy.. remember drinking gives you physical/physiological relief as your body responses to the stimulating effect of alcohol but after that the more you'll feel lousy because the problem and stressors are still there.. the best thing is to confront your problem - if it is your employer, make him aware.. and if you will not reach with a certain agreement that suits your convinience then look for another job.. i know it is easier said than done.. but always keep in mind health is more important than money.. GOODLUCK..

By ex-expat• 25 Dec 2008 08:27
Rating: 5/5
ex-expat

Many people (including me) find that Qatar is a very stressful place, due to the problems you describe and other issues such as, traffic, totally irresponsible property owners etc & etc.

If it's having such a bad effect on you, better look for a job in a new location.

By om Maui• 25 Dec 2008 08:25
om Maui

how do you know if you are becoming dependent on alcohol? Simple, stop drinking. If you can't, then you have become dependent.

Being aware that you're becoming alcohol dependent does not actually say anything about preventing it. Most alcohol dependents know that they have a dependent behavior. Sometimes they even brag about it.

What works is a firm decision from your end that this is not the direction you want to take in life, and declare to yourself that you are accountable for how you deal with your problems. Having problems do not justify it. I have tons of problems, my baby girl just passed away, but that doesn't mean i am justified if i turn to alcohol.

it's a decision you make for yourself. to live well. and live the best way you can.

it's up to you. quit now, no excuses.

http://littlegirlmaui.blogspot.com/

By shameen.ali• 25 Dec 2008 08:19
Rating: 3/5
shameen.ali

I have a stressful job. Wrk 6 days a week long hours. Somethin that is really helpin me out as Kee here is sayin is exercise.. Make it a point to go to the gym everyday & sweat it out. Takes out all the negative feelings & leaves you fresh to tackle the next day. Join up @ Sheraton where the gym is open 24 hrs so you can wrk it out according to ur schedule. Dont get into alchohol. Not worth it.

By britexpat• 25 Dec 2008 07:29
Rating: 5/5
britexpat

Firstly,, Just by "questioning", you are taking a step in the right direction.

Alcolhol is not the answer. You have financial problems and you are making them worse by spending on drink.

Mandi is right. Find an AA centre and get out with friends a little more.

Good luck.

By Kee32• 25 Dec 2008 07:10
Rating: 4/5
Kee32

Hi there.

I feel for you. I went through a similar situation when I first got here with my employer... but I didn't turn to alcohol. Believe it or not - exercise really does help. As naff as that sounds, keeping busy, sharing your woes with friends, and working out really kept me sane. I know a lot of people who drink to excess to forget their problems. Its a slippery slope... I hope you can limit the reliance on the drink and take up other activities which might help. All the best.

By Intelligent• 25 Dec 2008 07:01
Intelligent

Trying switching to Coca-Cola. Give it a shot, most of the times it works. I hope I can be of better help. Otherwise go see a psychiatrist, professional help is always better.

Good Luck

By Mandilulur• 25 Dec 2008 04:51
Rating: 5/5
Mandilulur

You could try an AA meeting and see if you hear anything that clicks - or doesn't.

Mandi

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