I need a way out of just drinking.. how else do you deal with stress and depression?

Exercise: Exercise is a great way to relieve stress. Your body releases endorphins during exercise, which can help you feel calm. If you exercise 30 - 60 minutes a day, your stress levels can improve. When stressed, take 5 slow, deep breaths with your eyes closed, then roll your shoulders forward 5 times, then back 5 times. This will slow your heart rate and release tension in your neck and shoulders.

AA and Psychotherapy: Aa offer a very important role in coping with life without alcohol use. People gain tremendous help through the program and meetings. However there are many who benefit from alcoholics anonymous but have residual stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms. These people continue aa and then obtain psychotherapy for the treatment of the problems that led to their drinking.