Tapering off, and withdrawal questions....

Posted , 11 users are following.

Hi all, I'm new to this particular forum and thought I would introduce myself. I've posted a few times in the Sertraline section but I've recently reached a kind of breaking point with my drinking. 

A bit of backgroung first. I've been drinking every night for about 3-4 years (not great with dates). It started off as a bottle of wine a night, then a load of beer, then not so much, then more, then not so much and... You know how it goes.

Recently (in the last week) I've cut it down to 4 little bottles of beer per night (330ml, 5% stuff). I've tried to taper off before, with little success, but this time after seeing a counsellor and really exploring why I drink I feel better equipped mentally to follow through with this idea. 

My problem is this... Obviously the thought of the potential withdrawal is paralysingly frightening (as it has been for most of you, I'm guessing), and because of my severe anxiety I am super aware of every little thing my body feels. It's hard for me to distinguish between anxiety symptoms, and withdrawal symptoms. For example: shakiness, headaches, confusion and general 'out of it' feelings... 

I don't want to just say to myself 'oh it's just anxiety, I have nothing to worry about' (WHICH IS WHAT IVE BEEN TRAINING MY MIND TO DO) if the symptoms COULD be signs of severe withdrawal. Has anyone on here ever dealt with this combination of things? 

I don't really know what I was hoping to accomplish from this post (my minds a little scrambled right now). I think I just need this forum as a distraction and for some hope right now. 

3 likes, 44 replies

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  • Posted

    You are welcome and yes , if you look for them they will get worse !!!

    Without the drink , they will get better 

    Just believe as you are telling yourself already smile 

    good night 

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