How to dal with all these feelings now that I'm sober . . .

It's funny how back when I was a habitual drinker and pot smoker I got along well with everyone- it's only now that I've stopped all that (for several years now)that my social problems and anxiety has increased and it seems that people think somethings wrong with me- most likely because I haven't shared this fact with everyone- I'm not like I'm going to broadcast this- but I think people view me as either mental or on drugs now (oh, the irony). I had a recent conversation with my brother where I couldn't help but think he was talking to me as one would a child, like he's starting to think I have mental problems . . . . I still binge drink sometimes and sometimes go through periods of of abiout a week at times where have a few shots to start my day off to feel 'normal' . . .

Sometimes we get along with people because they are drinking and pretending to be sociable and we are too. Family often can be the least empathetic. It is really a shame.

Starting your day off with a couple shots sounds like a sign of a possible addiction. Self medicating is not as precise or predictable as meds can be. Have you thought of talking about the pain or anxiety you feel to a psychiatrist. Perhaps they could help with meds.

If not a 12 step program has helped many people find camaraderie and break the cycle of pain.

well, like I said, I do this rarely . . .and yes I know it sounds bad, that's usually why I stop

I am having a similar issue. I don't think I even realized I was using to escape until I stop using. I've been clean for a few years - everything except pot, which is next on my list. I don't know how I am going to do it..

I am experiencing similar feelings- sobriety so far has involved lots of social anxiety, and a slight sense of paranoia- if that's what you call it- where people seem to interpret me to have mental problems. Honestly, it just makes me want to go back to using... but I'm too proud of how far I've come with not using. I owe it to myself to keep moving forward, just like you seem to be doing. I hope your situation has improved and that you've gained positive perspective on it.

I have a child who has been diagnosed with social anxiety. This child 6 years ago stood up in front of his entire high school class of 115 and gave a speech to lock in a position on the student government. Now he suffers from social anxiety and depression. He gets anxiety attacks. He was a heavy drinker, then started cutting back to the point now it has been 3 weeks he has been sober. He is on zoloft so was warned about drinking.

Hey, I was in the same boat- I just would reccommend tapering off slowly- trying to do it cold turkey was hard- mood swings and all and cravings- they say weed isnt addicting, but that ********- i still crave it sometimes because it would be my crutch in social situations, but I don't miss the paranoia accelerated manic thoughts it created for me. . ..