Need help accepting myself and my mistakes

My time in Europe is coming to an end tomorrow.

I spent a lot on my dad's card here. I know that was unavoidable. I feel really bad about how much I drank, but I had a hard time not getting wasted when everyone else was and when I couldn't just go home. Plus the beers are really strong here. Plus, I get nervous at social outings with people I don't know and that makes me want to drink more because I am comfortable and don't have to worry about my problems.

I got all As here and didn't do anything dumb to hurt myself, but I feel bad about how much I drank because I don't want to be that type of person. I'm working towards adapting my life in my near future so that I am able to live a life that has a healthier approach to alcohol.

What are some strategies to accept that the past is the past and the future is still able to be determined by me? How do I not beat myself up?

I would love any advice/words of encouragement. Thank you.

it may help to imagine two doors in your mind, one at the front of your head and one at the back. thoughts come in and thoughts go out. then you need to teach yourself not to judge the thoughts in between, just let them pass through. you cant change what happened. tell yourself you are going to make healthier choices in the future if that is helpful. you have thoughts actions and feelings. you thought you were going to get a beer. your actions were too many beers and your feeings about yourself now are negative. you feel bad, guilty. so next time you think about getting a beer what will your positive action be so that you feel good about yourself in the end? you can use this format for any of your life choices. positive thought will lead to a positive action will lead to positive feeling about yourself. good luck.

Thanks Kaliope for your post. That sounds like a good strategy. henrydavidtherobot, did you ever consider you may be an alcoholic? Only you can decide if you are. The addictions forum would be a great place to start. This is all just my opinion. If your just a social drinker, and you only have a few, and then stop,that is good. If you drink obsessively, play drinking games , Do shots, drink alone, these could be indications of alcoholism. Here is a link to the addiction forum.

Addictions - Forums at Psych Central

I hope I have been of some help. Take what you want, and leave the rest. Good luck.

Piraeus

I don't think that I am, but there are a few occasions that have made me realize that I need to be careful.

Did you have a good time?! Did you make friends?! Will you stay in contact with anyone that you met, while in Europe?!

You got, all A's, there. If you can answer yes, to any of those three questions, and if you were my son, returning home...I'd Say!! I am so proud of you, glad you had such a great time, and don't worry about the bill, let me deal with it!! ((or, of course, you could always pay me back, a little at a time, for anything you went over on the budget! ))

Thank you guys! Healingme4me, I plan on offering to help my dad pay for the bill.