Alcohol May Be the Temporary Solution for Happiness, But It’s Also the Permanent Solution for Depression

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Alcohol and drugs might seem like a quick fix to numb emotional pain or distract from difficult feelings. However, they ultimately fail to address the underlying issues that contribute to depression. Over time, reliance on these substances can not only worsen depression symptoms but also lead to addiction. It’s crucial to seek professional help and engage in healthier coping mechanisms to address the root causes of your pain.

My Personal Struggle with Alcohol

After my father’s suicide in 2017, I became a total lush… Yep, I was out in the clubs of Manhattan, drinking straight tequila and grinding on stripper poles and super hot guys. Lol, okay, some of them weren’t all that hot, but it doesn’t really matter if you're blacked out. When I'm blacked out, 99% of the time, NOBODY can tell. My friends used to call me “The Tank” because I could drink almost anyone under the table. I suppose being Irish, English, and Trinidadian gave me this superpower.

But this strength was becoming my weakness. The hangovers were relentless, and the depression was just an arm's length away. I would wake up each morning to the crushing reality that my father had died by his own hand. It was a vicious cycle that only deepened my suffering.

The Risks of Using Alcohol and Drugs

While alcohol may provide temporary relief or distraction, its effects are fleeting and can exacerbate mental health issues. Prolonged use of alcohol and drugs often leads to a cycle of dependence and worsening symptoms of depression. These substances don’t offer a solution but rather complicate the healing process.

10 Healthy Coping Mechanisms for Mourning

To navigate your grief and depression in a healthier way, consider incorporating these coping strategies into your routine:

1. Talk to a Therapist or Counselor: Professional guidance can help you process your emotions and develop effective coping strategies.

2. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help calm your mind and increase your awareness of the present moment, reducing stress and emotional pain.

3. Engage in Physical Activity or Exercise: Regular exercise boosts your mood and helps manage stress. It can also provide a healthy outlet for your emotions.

4. Write in a Journal or Express Yourself Through Art: Journaling and creative expression can be powerful tools for processing your grief and exploring your feelings.

5. Reach Out to Friends and Family for Support: Connecting with loved ones can provide comfort and remind you that you are not alone in your journey.

6. Volunteer in Your Community: Helping others can provide a sense of purpose and connection, lifting your spirits and offering a positive distraction.

7. Practice Good Self-Care: Ensure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in activities that nurture your well-being.

8. Take Up a New Hobby or Interest: Exploring new activities can offer a sense of fulfillment and help shift your focus away from grief.

9. Practice Gratitude: Regularly reflecting on the things you are thankful for can foster a positive outlook and balance your perspective.

10. Allow Yourself to Feel and Process Your Emotions: It’s important to acknowledge and work through your feelings rather than suppress them. Allowing yourself to grieve is a crucial part of healing.

Seeking Professional Help

It’s important to note that using alcohol, drugs, or other superficial means to cope with emotional pain can have negative consequences. It’s crucial to find healthy ways to cope and heal from a broken heart, such as seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist, practicing self-care, and focusing on personal growth. If you’re struggling with depression or substance use, seeking professional help is a crucial step toward recovery.

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Love,

Aleksei and the team at Mourning Glory Club, a registered 501(c)3