Is this the start?

[u/gelidascension]

I guess the question is, how did alcoholism start for you?

I'll make my story short. I'm in my twenties with an history of depression/anxiety. I never was an heavy drinker but this year I've started the habit of drinking alone while very depressed. Only little/moderate amounts (1 or 2 beers and one drink), but I take medications AND Xanax so it doesn't take much to get me tipsy. I never crossed the line of getting full drunk, however much I wanted it. This was a everyday habit for at least 1 month. After that I got told to stop and went on a sober streak of 1 month. It wasn't easy but it was feasible.

Then one day I wake up with incredibly strong cravings. I was shaking. I ended up drinking the usual dose and started back the cycle. Now I do one or two days sober (resisting cravings) and then I drink again, not very much but alas. When I don't drink, I have nausea, headache and vertigo, my hands shake a bit (and people have noticed).

I don't understand if I am developing a problem or if I'm already IN the problem and neck deep in denial... Mainly I'm shocked that I'm having withdrawals with how little I drink. (confirmed it was withdrawals by my doctor). Where do I go from here?

[u/CraftyBullfrog24]

I'm not sure in your situation. But I'll tell you mine started after the pandemic. Slowly but surely I started drinking more and more. Every stressor, no matter how small, was an excuse to drink. Long week? Drink. Football game? Drink. I'm awkward by nature so drinking helped me fit in. But now, 4 almost 5 years in, I'm always thinking about drinking. We go out to eat, I'm drinking. It now messes with my mental health and my anxiety is sky high. Makes my depression worse too. So this past Christmas day I had to make a decision. It sounds like perhaps you are getting a signal that you are going down a path that you may be able to change now. Just my two cents

[u/SOmuch2learn]

You are in the problem. Drinking alcohol and taking Xanax is unsafe and can kill you.

You need and deserve to get help. What saved me was having support and guidance from people who knew how to treat alcoholism or Alcohol Use Disorder. Did the doctor offer to treat your withdrawal symptoms? You need a safe detox protocol since you are not only abusing alcohol, but Xanax, also. Talk to a doctor about this and be completely honest about what you are doing.

Rehab gave me a great start at the sober, happy life I have today--42 years.

See, also, /r/stopdrinking and /r/alcoholicsanonymous.

[u/gelidascension → u/SOmuch2learn]

My doctor told me to just drink herbal teas instead of alcohol. Lol. I think they don't take this seriously because the amounts I take are very small, for now. Thank you for answering by the way

[u/SOmuch2learn → u/gelidascension]

What is the matter with him?

Please take care.

I hope you get the help you need and deserve so you can live your best life.

[u/OwnLet4364]

Thank you for sharing your story—it’s brave to reflect on your habits and question them. Based on what you’ve described, it seems like you’re in the early stages of developing a problem with alcohol. Experiencing withdrawal symptoms, even with moderate drinking, is a clear warning sign that your body is becoming dependent.

Addressing the root cause of your drinking is also crucial, as alcohol often worsens depression and anxiety. A therapist can help you develop healthier coping mechanisms.

This is your chance to take control before things progress further. Start with small, manageable goals, like removing alcohol from your home and replacing the habit with something healthier, such as herbal tea or journaling. The fact that you’re aware of the issue shows incredible strength. You’ve quit for a month before, so you know it’s possible—take it one day at a time. You’re not alone, and help is available. 💛

[u/Fickle-Secretary681]

Xanax and alcohol is dangerous as hell. You know this. Alcohol also worsens depression and anxiety. You're on a very slippery slope

[u/HealifyApp]

Cravings, withdrawals, and the cycle- definitely edging into dangerous territory. It’s great that you’re recognizing it now before it digs in deeper. Mixing alcohol with Xanax and meds is like playing with fire. Your next move should involve support, whether that’s a doctor, therapy, or even a local support group. It’s not about judgment, it’s about building a plan before this spirals further.