Alcoholism and Fear of Not Fitting in
Living with anxiety and social phobias can make it difficult for a person to have a social life. This can lead to alcohol playing an active role in the life of someone who has anxiety, phobias or PTSD. Along with making us feel a sense of relaxation, alcohol can also provide a false sense of bravado which makes someone to feel more comfortable in certain social situations. Without a drink in their hand many people feel like they just don’t fit in.
Psychological Causes of Alcoholism
There is a strong correlation between mental health disorders and alcoholism. The following are some potential co-occurring disorders and the reasons behind them:
- Social phobia and alcoholism: For a person who has a genuine fear of being in social situations and not fitting in, alcohol can provide a false sense of security and comfort.
- Social anxiety and alcohol abuse: Social anxiety can appear while out with friends or even family. A sense of panic combined with with a feeling of simply not belonging in that situation occurs. When alcohol is used, a false sense of comfort and a sense of belonging can occur.
- PTSD and alcoholism: When a person is struggling with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), alcohol can prove to be a readily available form of self-medication. The reality of self-medicating with alcohol is that an addiction to the sense of feeling numb that alcohol can offer will often arise. Physical or emotional trauma and alcoholism are often seen in those who have served in the armed forces.
If a person is phobic and alcoholic, it can be frightening to consider entering into a rehab for anxiety and addiction. The person has been consciously or subconsciously self-medicating with alcohol, and without it they may fear dealing with reality.
Getting Help for Alcohol Addiction and Phobias
When a person struggles with both mental health issues and addiction, it is vital that all aspects of the person’s health are treated. This holistic and integrated care comes from the following:
- Counseling for phobias, anxiety and other mental health issues contributing to addiction
- Integrated counseling for addiction, alcoholism and phobias so that the whole person can be treated
- Beneficial medication therapies if necessary
Comprehensive care means complete healing and a better chance at long-term sobriety.
We Can Help You Treat Alcoholism Today
Call us today, toll free, and one of our knowledgeable and compassionate counselors will provide advice, answer your questions and give you the information you need on treatment options for mental health disorders and addiction. All calls are confidential and handled in the most professional and considerate manner possible. We are here 24 hour a day to provide you with the help you need. What are you waiting for? Call now.
