@tealMelon1154
The alcohol thing is a tough subject. I have known many people who use alcohol as a crutch/coping mechanism much too often and it only makes things worse in their lives and relationships. But, I have also read about some studies talking about how mild/moderate drinking may help with anxiety. Of course, they also say you shouldn't start drinking to help with anxiety either!
I struggle with the question of alcohol for anxiety. I mean, what's the difference of me taking a prescription each day to help with anxiety versus having one drink each day? Both are drugs, both are generally not good for my body.
I am not condoning or judging medication or alcohol or cannabis, for that matter. We each individually need to decide what works for us WITHOUT hurting us or our lives/relationships.
Beyond medicating yourself with your drug of choice, what do YOU like to do? I know some people who suffer from anxiety that LOVE running. They'll run for miles each day. Others go to the gym and work out for a couple of hours. Neither of those things are things I like doing. I find my own things, because then I'll know they'll work.
I go for regular walks. They don't have to be long. It could be down the road and back. It could be a nature trail. It could be window shopping in the city. Just get out of the house, don't take the anxiety with you, and enjoy your time.
Swimming, kayaking, walk your dog (or offer to be a dog walker for someone else). Volunteer at an animal shelter where you have to be around a lot of dogs and cats that just want someone to cuddle or play or talk to them.
Hobbies that keep you busy - textiles (knitting), cooking, woodworking. I'm not a huge fan of reading but so many other people use it to help with their anxiety.
Is something broken around your house? A mower? A coffee maker? Dig into YouTube, start watching videos, and repair it. (I LOVE IT when I fix something. It gives me a great sense of accomplishment.)