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The Tension Reduction Theory of Alcohol Use

  • 06-01-2014 11:54pm
    #1
    stephan1
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 15 ✭


    The Tension Reduction Theory of Alcohol Use.

    "People with anxiety disorders, including panic disorder and agoraphobia, often use alcohol as a primary means of coping with fear and anxiety. One theory of why this occurs is the “tension reduction hypothesis.” Simply put, this theory suggests alcohol is used as a self-medicating method to reduce stress and anxiety."

    Is this a good idea for someone attending a social function with social anxiety/awkwardness?

    I am not talking about getting completely drunk but just enough to reduce your inhibitions. I can't see the harm in it.

    What do you think?


Comments

  • #2
    dar100
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,735 ✭✭✭dar100


    Well what you're speaking of here is self-medicating, and really this is how addictions occur. Regardless of the substance, could be alcohol, drugs etc.

    If it is a behaviour that is been engaged in lets say once a week or so, maybe it can be kept at that level, but more likely, will be that the person begins to use it as a crutch and it may become problematic.

    Maybe looking into some therapy would be beneficial, in this instance.


  • #3
    bootybouncer
    Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 495 ✭✭bootybouncer


    No, been there done that wore the tshirt....................... alcohol actually elevated my anxieties and depressions(as we know it does) and in social scenes I continued to drink more !!!!!!!!

    Total abstinence and educating myself in being comfortable in my own shoes helped


  • #4
    Torakx
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,831 ✭✭✭Torakx


    Read philosophy and psychology, helped me no end!
    I used to have crippling agoraphobia. Granted a majority was diet related and due to some standard medical practices. But the after effects were still quite strong for years and it was through learning about myself, how I think and why I act some ways that has helped me view myself differently and be more at peace.
    It seems to me now that knowing why I do or feel things has helped me to let them go.
    If I couldn't see them I couldn't let them go and decide not to act this way or percieve myself certain ways.
    Being self aware I guess.


  • #5
    JuliusCaesar
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,885 ✭✭✭JuliusCaesar


    stephan1 wrote: »
    Is this a good idea for someone attending a social function with social anxiety/awkwardness?

    No. Because people get reliant on this method of anxiety reduction.

    And especially because the psychological treatment of social anxiety is so effective, and long lasting.

    What would you do if you were anxious going to to a job interview? Not a great idea to turn up with a few on board.

    There are lots of books on CBT treatment of social anxiety and social phobia. Even videos


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