View Full Version : How are you guys with alcohol?
colinmckee2
09-05-15, 19:50
Thinking about trying alcohol 2-3 pints maybe in next few weeks to break myself back into the swing of social activities. As always a bit anxious, is it just alcohol abuse that worsens anxiety? I'll be hydrating myself
Throughout the session to avoid a hangover which will
Make me feel groggy etc. anyone else have any light to shine on me here? Thanks
Positive thoughts
I cannot drink alcohol at all, to be honest i never want to! Lol i don't get that urge that everyone else has to have a drink.. i;d much rather have a cup of tea :roflmao:
But yes i do on special occasions and such but i get very ill very quickly. My dad always says to eat before and make sure you have water inbetween drinks to stay hydrated :doh:
You'll find both those who will argue but I'm on the "anxiety and alcohol don't mix" side. WAY too may threads that prove it and if you're on meds, it's a no no. Based on your post history, I would stay away.
Positive thoughts
MyNameIsTerry
10-05-15, 06:25
You'll find both those who will argue but I'm on the "anxiety and alcohol don't mix" side. WAY too may threads that prove it and if you're on meds, it's a no no. Based on your post history, I would stay away.
Positive thoughts
But thats not the case with meds as I've already proved on these threads:
http://www.nomorepanic.co.uk/showthread.php?t=167856&highlight=alcohol
http://www.nomorepanic.co.uk/showthread.php?t=167882&highlight=alcohol&page=4
I respect your right to an opinion but you are contradicting medical sources which is why I raised it before.
I think we need to not only give our opinions but make sure we state the correct facts. The correct facts are not that alcohol cannot be mixed with antidepressant medication but that you need to check the one you are on to ensure there are no warnings.
Some people can't tolerate alcohol with anxiety as it spikes them and some suffer afterward (which may also be largely down to our reactions as well).
I think anyone who asks this question is entitled to the facts and they shouldn't be selective in favour our opinions otherwise we are misleading people and not allowing them to make their own decisions.
The truth is, if you look farther affield than NMP you will find it is pretty mixed. You also have mentioned that people on here, including in some of the threads you believe to be prove (pure anecdotal) this, that there are also people saying the opposite. If we base our evidence on anecdotal then that would also be proof.
If we work on threads as proof then we should be discounting quite a few meds too.
Look at Bodybuilding.com's forum and see some of the anxiety sufferers complaining that whey protein spikes them.
Look at the threads in caffeine yet many of us still drink tea unaffected.
I believe (aside from the meds you shouldn't drink on) that it comes purely down to the individual. Some people just can't tolerate it and they need to avoid it. I also believe you need to understand the persons severity anyway as you tend to be more prone to being triggered by a lot of things including eating normal meals.
I found that I could drink on Citalopram and the warnings say not too. The only reason I did was because my GP said it was ok in moderation whilst on holiday. I drank each night for 5 days and was fine. Now I don't drink at all and wouldn't until I feel I have overcome the symptoms that I could associate with things like hangovers but I'm not going to discourage others on that basis.
My current med only advised caution, not abstainence unlike many others. Some medications state that the impact is to intensify the effect of the medication or to intensify the effect of the alcohol. In these cases, a GP may decide it is ok but thats up to them to decide.
If you do it, be practical about it and try a small amount and work upwards. Then at least you can gauge the impact with as little anxiety as possible.
Serenity1990
10-05-15, 10:02
My *opinion* is that you should go out and enjoy yourself, a few pints isn't going to do you any harm.
Anyone who says anxiety and alcohol don't mix has clearly never been through months of hell dissipated in their entirety by one solitary night out. In my opinion, had it not been for evenings with friends consuming alcohol I'd have had very little escape from the crap of the past couple of years.
I'm not on any anti-depressants because I'm not depressed, however if I was I'd go with my doctor's advice.
Personally I'm fine with a bit of social drinking, nothing TOO heavy... however if I have a particularly heavy night out, I'm fine that night, but the next day I suffer from very bad depression and anxiety. Sometimes it's a feeling that lasts a few days and it really makes me feel bad. It's more than a hangover. It's real depression and anxiety. But I also know people with anxiety problems who can drink the same amount and be fine...
If you are on medication doesn't this fall under NMPs don't ask rule? Therefore isn't up to you to do what you want? It's your life, I assume your an adult. I have a wine cellar. It makes a good hobby and a trade commodity and once in a while I'll have a glass with supper. Never for the buzz. Definitely for the taste. And one glass is enough for that.
MyNameIsTerry
10-05-15, 10:35
Well I think it might be because some of us are telling Colin both sides of the story, not fitting the story to their opinion. Colin is an adult and I'm sure he can make the right decision for himself.
If you read the OP's thread history, you'll see he was prescribed Sertraline and Valium. His anxiety started with a bad trip on drugs.
I get it... it's a personal choice. Google facts all day and you'll find a few things to the contrary.
In this case, IMO, I'm spot on.
Positive thoughts
colinmckee2
10-05-15, 10:49
I'm not on any medications, I've decided to fight anxiety without them as I don't want to be on anti depressants unless I'm actually depressed as my mum
And auntie went on them young and to this day are still on them. My anxiety has improved this week and I'm going to wait until it has improved further before trying alcohol I'd hate to relapse after having done so well and almost got back to normal. I appreciate the comments guys but I'm going to try alcohol in a few weeks as I simply cannot see my childhood pass me without memories of nights out with my friends and holidays to sunny countries. Appreciate it :)
---------- Post added at 10:49 ---------- Previous post was at 10:46 ----------
The sertealine tablets I quit fishmanpa after only a few days, I guess cause I didn't like the idea of being so young and reliant on pills to make me feel better. Also delighted to say my attitude to the drugs I previously used remains unchanged "**** them" �� never again. Thanks for following my posts and inputting your advice all the way bud.
MyNameIsTerry
10-05-15, 10:57
Not really, FMP, since you wouldn't agree to the fact that there is trusted evidence including our NHS that contradicts you.
Regardless of Colin's case, you did say above "WAY too may threads that prove it and if you're on meds, it's a no no" which is a general statement and the same one in the other threads.
According to Drugs.com for Setraline it says "Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of sertraline" in the "What should I avoid?" section. So, its prudent not to drink but given my old Citalopram said to avoid alcohol yet my GP stated that moderation was ok, maybe we have to leave such advice to those who are qualified to give it?
Valium on the other hand shows a frimer statement "Do not drink alcohol while taking Valium. This medication can increase the effects of alcohol" so its clear it should definately be avoided.
I guess you could Google facts, or in my case link the PIL from the manufacturer of the medication and link to the NHS Choices website, both trusted my the medical profession.
I just think when the subject of alcohol comes up, state the facts and add a personal opinion. I'm neutral on the issue, I just think we should be fair and let people make their own choices.
Serenity1990
10-05-15, 11:12
If you read the OP's thread history, you'll see he was prescribed Sertraline and Valium.
...
In this case, IMO, I'm spot on.
I'm not on any medications
This is precisely why people should take threads and questions at face value.
TBH Fishmanpa, with all due respect it does appear you're increasingly trying to twist your own opinions about alcohol and anxiety to be represented as facts. I am a little uncomfortable with this.
My therapist actually encouraged me going out to drink with friends as part of my recovery. As a PhD in psychology, a senior lecturer at a top uni and an experienced therapist I would assume he knows what he's talking about. Even more so, I dare say, than either of us commenting on this thread. All we can do is share experiences, and my experience with anxiety and alcohol are unanimously positive.
Regardless of Colin's case, you did say above "WAY too may threads that prove it and if you're on meds, it's a no no" which is a general statement and the same one in the other threads.
I could take the time and go through and post links to all the threads that prove my point but why waste my time? There are thousands of threads that say what KayS said: "...I'm fine that night, but the next day I suffer from very bad depression and anxiety. Sometimes it's a feeling that lasts a few days and it really makes me feel bad. It's more than a hangover. It's real depression and anxiety".
Is it any different than smoking? Will it cause cancer? It's known to but why take the risk? Will one drink or even a couple have a negative effect on one's anxiety? It's certainly been known to but why risk it?
I will continue to post that "general" statement and opinion. Please feel free to post otherwise.
Positive thoughts
Serenity1990
10-05-15, 11:24
I could take the time and go through and post links to all the threads that prove my point but why waste my time? There are thousands of threads that say what KayS said...
How, exactly, does that prove your point? It indicates that some people can have a negative reaction, or might be more susceptible to doing so. It does not indicate the majority does so.
You offer no counterfactual. You choose to blithely ignore those who have had positive experiences. So it may well be the case that, on average, alcohol has a positive effect.
I'm not arguing it does have a positive effect, I'm simply pointing out that linking to a few threads that say x, y and z doesn't prove anything at all.
I have suffered from anxiety for the last 2 months following a bad drug trip. I was prescribed propanolol to aid it however it made me feel faint and had to come off it, I was then prescribed sertraline and it's given me trouble breathing and I could not sleep at all last night. I think it's the drug now that are making me anxious as their side effects are foreign to me usually. Do you think that with my doctors help I should just come off these meds altogether slowly and safely. And just take Valium from time to time when I can't sleep. Beginning to think meds aren't the answer to my anxiety. Though I could just be ring impatient with the meds? This is my second day on sertraline. Thanks my friends :)
You're right...
Cheers!
MyNameIsTerry
10-05-15, 11:27
I understand why you say that, FMP, its the rule I live by right now and I'm not saying thats completely incorrect. However, there are many things that can cause it, caffeine being a good example, but aren't we all drinking tea & coffee? They obviously don't have the same impact in terms of duration but they can raise anxiety and cause panic in some so you could say why take the chance on those.
In terms of the links, I mean real evidence, not posts. Posts are pure anecdotal evidence and do not override trusted medical sources. People posting can be at all different stages of recovery and I know some I've seen were people who really should have stayed clear as it was only going to end in tears for them. A comparison may need to be made based on how severe people are because those that are in a much better place may not have the same reaction.
You are free to do whatever you want, I just would like to have a discussion about something from a reputable source. I posted 2 of those.
I think smoking is a bit different since we are not advocating drinking daily, which would be a big no no.
Hi there,
Just my opinion if it counts - I agree with Fishmanpa that alcohol and anxiety do not mix HOWEVER I love going out, I like being sociable and I find that with alcohol I have a good time - AT THE TIME. If I go overboard which honestly, nowadays doesnt really happen because of the whole anxiety issue, I pay for it. I get the jitters, the palpitations, the feeling of impending doom, the poking and prodding looking for symptoms, the tears.....I could go on.
I would say ease yourself back in, dont go overboard and get trollied and take it easy, Drink lots of water to avoid hangover too. Stick to 3/4 pints in total and have something to eat if you are out in a pub/restaurant.
MyNameIsTerry
10-05-15, 11:31
You're right...
Cheers!
Didn't Colin answer that for you? I'm not sure what you are trying to state with this and I'm not sure how Colin might take it. Is this wise?
I haven't drank in 2 Years since getting anxiety. It makes me feel ill anyway. Prior to that i was on antidepressants and suffering from depression and I could drink just fine. Used to get stinking hangovers though, no headache just vomiting the next day.
I think it comes down to whether or not you can control your intake. When you have anxiety, there are definitely HUGE benefits to getting out of the house and having a night out with friends, especially if you haven't done it in a long time due to anxiety. It can have a really positive affect, as after all, humans are supposed to be social creatures and socialising increases feelings of wellbeing and support (except for those who have social anxiety of course...). Now, of course going out with friends doesn't necessarily mean you have to drink, but hey, if you can have a few drinks and let your hair down and have a good time, go for it. This however doesn't mean I think it's a good idea to go out and get absolutely smashed when you suffer with anxiety, as I personally believe this will only have a negative impact on not only your anxiety, but also your health in general. But getting a bit tipsy (unless you KNOW that this affects your anxiety badly) is nothing bad. At the end of the day you have to be the judge of it based on past experiences. The theory is that if you're old enough to legally drink, you're old enough to make these decisions for yourself, and only you know how it will affect you.
Didn't Colin answer that for you? I'm not sure what you are trying to state with this and I'm not sure how Colin might take it. Is this wise?
I'm trying to say I'm out.... Waving the white flag. If you or anyone else can drink without ill affects good for you! You'll never hear about that on the boards. You do hear about every other negative experience. I give enough of a crap to attempt to stop someone I feel will react in a bad way to drinking again as this is someone who had bad experiences with drugs before. A "few pints" to some people may have no adverse affects. A few pints to someone else or to someone on meds can be the opposite.
One doesn't have to drink to have fun! One can still go out and have a blast without alcohol! Bottom like is the OP will do what he wants regardless of what you or I say.
So yeah... "Cheers"
Positive thoughts
Hey Collin, just wanted to answer your original question of how we are with alcohol. I find it depends on how I am doing in my recovery. If I am in a place where my anxiety and depression are not really rearing their ugly heads, I will go out with friends and have a couple drinks or some wine with my husband once in a while. I don't do it a lot, as I work and I know it messes with my sleep a bit. Maybe once or twice a month if I am doing well.
If I am going through a rough patch, like right now, I try to avoid it because it seems to magnify whatever mood I am in for me personally. So if I am anxious or depressed, I will get worse after. Maybe not in the moment, but after it gets out of my system. I also try to drink a glass of water between drinks and not drink on an empty stomach.
I guess my answer is know yourself and alcohol's effect on you - which honestly should be the case for anybody, anxiety or not! :)
It doesn't seem you are on meds, so no worries there. I was on lexapro for some time and my MD said it was ok to drink once in a while on that. Never really had issues other than what I said above, which is still something that I take into account off meds too.
I think it's kind of odd to be asking a bunch of strangers if they think it's ok for you to have a drink. Noone here knows how alcohol affects you. For all we know you might turn into a raving lunatic with suicidal tendencies with a couple of beers in you. Two words come to mind "real world". That is, ask the people who know you in real life what they think.
colinmckee2
10-05-15, 15:35
You've read my post wrong bud. I am merely asking how others in similar positions to me are finding alcohol and their experiences of using it whilst having health anxiety. I know they can't answer my real thought can I drink but they can shed light on their experiences and I can make judgement from them whether or not it's worth it.
Thanks guys :)
I used to suffer really bad with social anxiety and spent years isolated in my bedroom. The only time I saw "friends" was when I decided I couldn't bare it any longer and would drink alcohol, phone a taxi and go out and socialise. Felt so good to be out and living again.
Unfortunately I think it's pretty conclusive that alcohol messes with your neurotransmitters ? Meaning after the neurotransmitter chaos anxiety sufferers CAN find their neurotransmitter state (anxiety/depression for eg) worse. Ie bad hangovers.
I used to wake up in my bedroom afterwards, realise I had drank the night before and feel pure terror at the thought of having to deal with my consciousness over the next few days. Palpitations, panic, ridiculous anxiety, intrusive thoughts bringing panic, feeling like I was in danger of going insane. Those hangovers really were the most terrifying times I've gone through in my entire life.
Despite this being the only way I could face socialising I decided I just could not face it anymore and stopped drinking completely.
In my many years posting and moderating on mental health sites I've found this to be a very common reaction with sufferers of anxiety and depression.
If you can go out and have a couple of drinks without starting off the drunk effect then great, that's probably not going to be enough to mess with your neurotransmitters. But many peoples plan is to relax, lower inhibitions and get merry or drunk. The more you head in that direction the more likelihood a negative reaction afterwards.
Not drinking is so problematic to me. I'd love to be able to drink. I'm so inhibited and self conscious it would really help to get out more and socialise but I cannot face the anxiety reaction the next morning.
MyNameIsTerry
11-05-15, 04:41
One doesn't have to drink to have fun! One can still go out and have a blast without alcohol!
Yes, I agree. I think a lot of our society revolves around it though so if you have always been into the drinking scene, its not easy when thats all your mates want to do.
I don't think I will be returning to my old drinking habits anyway now, I don't really think about it much anymore unlike a few years back. Its like an old life.
It can be a bit tricky making new friends though when drinking is the culture. I guess its a matter of joining clubs/societies and seeing what comes of it.
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