Admittedly I too turned to drink as a coping mechanism when I got diagnosed. To the point I was found slumped in a car park and taken to hospital. Was scary stuff, but I have had regular councilling since which has really helped. Im sure your GP could refer you to someone or talk to your local macmillan centre and they are also great sources of support.
When I found out my diagnosis I turned to drink, even smoked some cannabis too. I just didn’t want to be in the real world and think about it. And yet I’ve always been quite positive over it.
Since starting chemo I really cut down but do have some occasional moments.
You have already made the first step towards helping yourself by coming on here and asking for help - well done babs, it takes courage to do that.
You know deep down that this crutch you have found to help deaden your thoughts and pain after your diagnosis isn't helpful and probably makes things harder because you can't deal with things with a clear head the next day.
The only thing that stopped me turning to drink when I had my two cancer diagnoses was the fact my husband is a recovering alcoholic, so I've seen what it's like from the other side and it's not the answer.
Opening up on forums like this will help - you know you're not alone and that we all know what you are going through. Please also contact Macmillan - they have fantastic counselling services and can help you get your head in the right place for dealing with this. Your GP can also help arrange counselling for you. You aren't alone, you just need to ask for help from the professionals and keep sharing your thoughts on fears on forums like this.
Good luck and I hope you seek out the professional help you need. Also, good luck with your cancer treatment.
It can be tough coping with a cancer diagnosis but as you've seen from the responses you've received so far, you are not alone.
Although you haven't started chemo just yet, excessive drinking is not recommended and not allowed at all with some chemo drugs so do try and seek out some support from your GP or friends and family if you can.
We have some information about alcohol and chemotherapy on our website, which includes a link to a list of tips on cutting down on alcohol that you may find useful at this time.
Our community know how difficult this can be and are here to help Babs.
