[lr237787]

Is this a thing? I definitely have a drinking “issue” (I wouldn’t even call it a “problem” yet) but I wouldn’t call myself an alcoholic because I’m not physically addicted.

Also, how do I break this to my family/psychiatrist?

[sarahsweets]

Please describe what your drinking issue is like. What kind of drinking? What happens when you drink ?

[lr237787]

I go on a binge sometimes, like I’m drunk for a week or two and then I won’t drink for a couple of months.

[sarahsweets]

Originally Posted by lr237787

I go on a binge sometimes, like I’m drunk for a week or two and then I won’t drink for a couple of months.

Ok what about is it about This lifestyle that bothers you ? What makes you think you have a drinking problem-wait- “ issue”?

[shovelhead]

Hi. When u say you're drunk for a week or 2.......Are u still working a job (if u work) & functioning normally, in life? Or are u drinking all day, from sun up til sundown?

[DechanDawa]

You really need to be tested by an addictions counselor or at your local Addiction Recovery Center. They can ask you a lot of questions then determine where you fit in - like problem drinker...or maybe...something like warning bells are ringing. But I would say that, generally, if you think you have a problem then you probably have a problem. It's okay and I think you were brave to post here.


A hint: People who don't have problems with alcohol don't binge. So there is that.

[splitimage]

I think it's always good to question our relationship with alcohol. I don't care what you call yourself, labels aren't that useful. The issue to me, is alcohol causing you problems in life, even if it's just not feeling good about yourself.


I second the idea, to talk to an addictions counsellor if you can. They can help you decide what a healthier relationship with alcohol might look like for you. For example if you always binge when you drink, you might decide that total abstinence is your best option. Or you might decide you want to drink occassionally, but limit it so you don't get drunk - I have a cousin who approaches it that way.


I think it's great that you are thinking about this, and that you're asking questions.

splitimage

[DechanDawa]

Originally Posted by splitimage

I think it's always good to question our relationship with alcohol. I don't care what you call yourself, labels aren't that useful. The issue to me, is alcohol causing you problems in life, even if it's just not feeling good about yourself.


I second the idea, to talk to an addictions counsellor if you can. They can help you decide what a healthier relationship with alcohol might look like for you. For example if you always binge when you drink, you might decide that total abstinence is your best option. Or you might decide you want to drink occassionally, but limit it so you don't get drunk - I have a cousin who approaches it that way.


I think it's great that you are thinking about this, and that you're asking questions.

splitimage

Excellent reply, thoughtful and wise. I did total abstinence for ten years, than social (light drinking) for about five years...now am back to total abstinence which feels right for me at this time. I think it is great to approach it this way...although "back in the day" when I first quit drinking all these options were frowned upon. Maybe not anymore which is great!

[just2b]

i was considered to Abuse Alcohol. not sure if that is alcoholic but had seen a counselor that had "diagnosed " with that

[DechanDawa]

Originally Posted by just2b

i was considered to Abuse Alcohol. not sure if that is alcoholic but had seen a counselor that had "diagnosed " with that

Labels are okay but not really that helpful with regards to your life. The main thing is the behavior. It is up to you to determine what is best for you. You can quit drinking altogether if you want. Thousands of people quit addictions or "problematic behaviors" every day, either in programs, or on their own.

If you are trying to see if you can drink and not be abusive about it...go ahead - experiment. Just observe yourself. You know what is a problem for you. I am not a counselor but I have quit a lot of addictions and problematic behaviors over the years. Now I am not addicted to any substance or behavior because I don't want to be ensnared or enslaved by anything. I like freedom! Good Luck! (Also, alcohol is a depressant...so if you have a problem with low moods or depression alcohol is poison for you.)