Social phobia: Can it cause drinking issues?

[Nicki]

If you have social phobia and have to drink alcohol constantly while in a room with others, does that mean I have a drink problem too or do I do it just because it helps to relax and take my mind off the situation I'm in.

 

[forgetmenot]

I would say yes you have a drinking problem as you are using alcohol to make you into someone you are not. You are using it as a relaxant but in your own words you say you Have to drink it constantly. It has control then not you.

 

[Nicki]

Thanks Violet makes sense a little, would you still agree with that if its only once a month when I have someone over that it happens, is that drink problem or maybe just for confidence as i dont drink all the time.

 

[forgetmenot]

I say if you can control your drinking so that it does not take away who you are then a social drink is okay but i think you will find if you are using the alcohol which you are to change your personality then i think yes it is a problem because you will continue to use it as a coping skill.
It will start off with just once a month then it will increase as different stressors come into play. Alcohol as a coping skill is never a good thing i myself was going to use it as a sedative for night time but realize no i can't go there. Also if alcoholism runs in your family try to find a different way to be more open more relaxed with yourself. Ask your GP maybe for some medication for your anxiety or to get some therapy to find the root of your anxiety these are better than using something that will eventually bring you trouble I hope i make sense take care.