Just a question - did u take whatever you called the "nutty" pharmacist about?

And you edited response above concerns me.... you know drinking is bad for you, but you will do anything to feel better, but it only makes you feel better short term, unless you want to continue drinking (as u are an alcoholic). Perhaps it is time to actually deal with what is causing the anxiety, rather than covering it up with alcohol.

Another thought - no - we are not living in the dark ages in the US - we have wonderful Doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, medication, etc that help people get better. But of course, people have to use those wonderful services in order to benefit from them.