Yeah it's the anxiousness after where you just don't know what you've done. It's horrible. Do you avoid social situations that are likely to involve drinking or do you just stick to soda drinks? Yeah a night out in aus is $200 for me. It's a complete no brainer. I'm feeling better about it today, had a good talk with the missus last night and feel like this is a turning point for me so trying to see it in a positive light.
Sounds silly, but have you tried drinking slower, which in turn means drinking less.
Sorry if I'm going over old ground, but the way I cope in social situations like you've described, is camouflaging how much I'm drinking.
After about four drinks no one around you is bothered what you're drinking anyway, so that's when you slow down. Make your pint last longer, order a lemonade etc , when it's your round and tell them all it's vodka or a JD and coke.
There are ways of getting around it mate, but it takes time.
Once you've got the hang of it becomes quite easy and you can still have a good time.
Also once people get used to you saying no, they leave you alone and accept that you aren't going to get caned like them.
It's all about changing your habits and being disciplined.
My absolute limit is six pints. Anymore than that and I'm crippled by " the fear " the following day.
As others have said, it saves you a fortunder too.
