Is it normal to feel a downward shift in mood/mental health when coming off alcohol? I honestly can’t remember because I haven’t lasted this long in a while. I thought my mental health would improve by now, but it seems to actually be worse. How do you keep those urges at bay when you’re struggling with depression?
24 Likes
It is completely normal, the emotions will balance out all we need is focus on one day at a time.
One thing I recommend is physical activity, yes I mean exercise, but can be as simple as you make it. When you feel the urge just get up and move walk around the house second without a doubt is more important to me if having people you can reach out to in the times that you are feeling low but also daily checking in helps with accountability for me.
Hope some of this helps!
3 Likes
I was actually just talking about wanting to get a gym membership tomorrow (I just moved to a new state) I’ve been going on walks which seem to help take the edge off, but I need more. Thank you for the tips. I appreciate it.
2 Likes
Well that can be stressful moving to a different state by itself. Feel free to post on here and it might not be easy when you struggle I know I’ve been up and down this road but life continues to get better and the more you notice the little things the better it feel in the long run! I actually noticed yesterday enjoying washing the car and just being home. Life always flew by so quickly I never had enough time to enjoy the little moments that are sweet!
1 Like
It definitely is, and it has also been a big drinking trigger. But like you said, I want to experience life. I know when I numb the bad I numb the good too, and I really have to get out of that cycle.
1 Like
Always check how you feel and remember to think of the things that you are thankful for! It helps more then you think. I use to be a negative person believe it or not. Selfishness and depression consumed. Yet here I am now! Have the best 6 months of my life, and I am proud to say that!
1 Like
12 days here! 
2 Likes
Congratulations Emma! 
One week is amazing! I just made it to a week myself.
I’m having a bit of a rough time with the depression and anxiety myself. I’ve been trying to occupy my time in any way possible — reading, going for walks, journaling — it all helps!
Keep going! I’m here with you. 🩷
1 Like
“Playing the tape forward “ has helped me with the urge to drink when depressed. Whenever I get a craving I think about what happens after I feel the initial pleasure of having a drink. I drink more and more, pass out on the couch, then wake up in the middle of the night with my heart pounding. I race to the local store for more booze, force it down and pass out again. Then I go to work and can’t function (bad tremor, can’t concentrate). This technique has really worked for me. Wish you the best.
1 Like
It’s completely normal. I just got to 6 months and I still struggle with it on and off. Like people said exercise really helps. For me being in nature, going on hikes, things like that help. You got this!
1 Like
It can be a roller coaster ride, text, chat, call someone and have distractions in place.
1 Like
It’s all normal! It took me about 1 month to not have serious anxiety. 3 months I started to feel like myself but not 100%
I would say a year later it really gets better.
1 Like
Well alcohol is a depressant! It just takes time. Meetings, movies and meditation is how I deal and dealt with it. Keep on truckin’!
1 Like
Completely normal. Stay strong.
1 Like
Structure may help. I set up a habit tracker full of positive things I can do for myself and grow from. It's helped me immensely to have consistent meaningful activities laid out for me every day. But also, meetings and forming a support system that is reliable and encouraging will make a huge influence for the better.
1 Like
Thank you Christie! Best of luck to you as well. Reading and walking has definitely been a big part of my routine too. I have been a little nervous about journaling because sometimes that triggers me. Maybe I’ll start with simple journal. Like just the positives!
Oh wow, well that is just more of a reason to keep going! I can’t believe how depending my mind and body has become on alcohol.
I have been thinking about structure a lot. I think you are definitely right about that. I just moved and am job hunting to the ample free time is NOT good right now. I think I’ll create a consistent schedule in the meantime to try and help with the thoughts.
That’s actually exactly what I have been doing without realizing it was a technique.
Congratulations!