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Can I drink alcohol or use recreational drugs if I have anxiety?

71 Answers
Last Updated: 09/21/2020 at 4:16pm
1 Tip to Feel Better
United States
Moderated by

Kelley Goodwin, Psychotherapy/Art Therapist, LPC, ATR

Licensed Professional Counselor

Attachment and psychodynamic focused, I provide the client a connected, affirming, and protective experience to creatively integrate trauma and explore their true self.

Top Rated Answers
Anonymous
February 23rd, 2016 1:37pm
Drugs and Alcohol usually increase your dependence on them and do not address the issue. They at max help manage anxiety. Addiction might make the problem worse. In my experience instead of alcohol, any way to boost confidence will decrease the symptoms.
Reddy
February 15th, 2016 3:55am
Its really your choice what you do but its not a good idea at all. In fact alcohol and recreational drugs can actually make the anxiety worse. (so thats a no)
Anonymous
December 14th, 2015 10:05pm
I think that this is not a good idea as these drugs and alcohol can further make things worse especially once sober. If you have anxiety, the only drugs recommended are pills to help anxiety. Other than this, you may regret taking either or both recreational drugs and alcohol as they can impact you very negatively and make situations much worse!
ListenLady91
December 8th, 2015 10:28pm
I don't encourage drug use, if you find a beer or a glass of wine is relaxing for you than do it. As long as you keep it all in moderation.
Pandagirl92
December 7th, 2015 10:53pm
I do not recommend use of alcohol or recreational drugs as a method to treat or lesson the symptoms of anxiety. Although it may initially help, Substances do have a tendency to exasperate and worsen anxiety long term.
Spreest
December 7th, 2015 8:30am
Alcohol doesn't sound like a very good idea. I would stay away from that. Recreational drugs... well, if your doctor prescribed them for you, then you can.
SereneSummer
November 24th, 2015 12:47pm
You should refrain from using alcohol or recreational drugs if you suffer from anxiety. The effects of alcohol and drugs can make anxiety worse
Anonymous
September 11th, 2014 2:45am
There's an old saying that goes: 'Everything in moderation!' As long as you can control it, why not?
Kaaarenn
October 9th, 2014 10:14pm
No, you can't it would make you feel more anxious, take of yourself and have some water instead, we don't want nobody to get hurt.
heycrysteezy
October 19th, 2014 9:19pm
The question is not whether we can or can not, but whether or not it is healthy when we have an underlying issue going on in our brains. Our instincts sometimes tell us to self medicate, that we can just forget about the problem at hand and worry about it later. But the problem is, that once the alcohol or drugs wear off, the issue is still there, and we're right back to square one.
ZamokuhleMasondo
October 23rd, 2014 5:33pm
I think that would be just adding to the problem, and increase your anxiety, rather get help or excercise