Are you worried that you or a loved one may have a drinking problem? Do you know the signs to look for?
It’s easy to spot signs of a drug problem, but the question is: what about alcohol? Many people don’t realize they have a drinking problem until it’s too late.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the signs of a drinking problem and what you can do if you think someone has a drinking issue.
What is Alcoholism?
Alcoholism, or Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), is a chronic, progressive illness characterized by a compulsion to consume alcoholic drinks, impaired control over alcohol consumption, and deterioration in health and social functioning. It is considered both a physical and psychological disease.
Alcoholism affects men and women of all ages, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds. It is a disease that progresses over time with physical, mental, social, financial, and psychological effects. However, it is treatable, and people with alcoholism can recover from the disease.
If left untreated, alcoholism is a serious illness with potentially devastating consequences.
The Dangers of Alcoholism
Alcoholism is a severe disease that can have far-reaching consequences. The adverse effects of alcohol and alcoholism can negatively impact a person’s quality of life.
People who suffer from alcoholism are at a higher risk for developing health problems such as liver damage, cancer, and heart disease.
Additionally, alcoholism can lead to financial problems, relationship difficulties, and job loss.
Heavy alcohol drinking is a major contributing factor to accidents and injuries. In fact, drunk driving is the leading cause of death on our nation’s highways.
The dangers of alcoholism are clear. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, please get help.
13 Signs of A Drinking Problem
The first step in treating alcoholism is to recognize that there is a problem. Here are 13 signs to look out for.
You Drink More Than Planned
It may be a problem if you’re drinking more than you intended or more often than you planned.
You Drink To Relieve Stress
Many people drink alcohol to relax or relieve stress. However, relying on alcohol to cope with life’s problems may be a sign of a drinking problem.
You Neglect Your Responsibilities
If you’re neglecting your work, family, or social responsibilities to keep up with your drinking habit, it’s a sign that alcohol is a problem.
You Drink In Secret
People struggling with alcoholism often try to hide their drinking from others. If you’re sneaking drinks, drinking alone often, binge drinking, or lying about how much you’re drinking, it’s a sign of a problem.
You Get Into Trouble When You Drink
If you find that you get into arguments or fights when you drink, or if you’ve been arrested for drunkenness, it’s a serious sign that alcohol is a problem.
You Want to Stop but Can’t
If you’ve tried to quit drinking but find that you can’t, it’s a sign that you’re struggling with alcoholism. This is a drinking problem if you start showing a loss of control over your alcohol intake.
You Keep Drinking Despite Consequences
If you continue to drink even though it’s causing problems in your life, you’re exhibiting risky behavior. This is a sign of problematic drinking.
You Feel Helpless Without Alcohol
If you feel like you can’t function without alcohol, it’s a sign that you’re suffering from alcoholism.
You Spend a Lot of Time on Drinking
If you find that you’re spending more and more time drinking or thinking about drinking, it’s a sign of a problem.
Your Tolerance Has Gone Up
If you find that you need to drink more and more alcohol to get the same effect, it’s a sign that your tolerance has increased and you’re suffering from alcoholism.
You Crave Alcohol
If you find that you have intense cravings for alcohol or are thinking about alcohol often, it’s a sign that you’re suffering from alcoholism. Additionally, you may get alcohol withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop drinking.
It Causes Friction in Relationships
If you find that your drinking behavior is causing problems in your relationships, it’s a sign that alcoholism is a problem.
Drinking Is Making You Sick
If you’re suffering from health problems because of your excessive drinking, it’s a sign that alcoholism is a problem.
These are just a few of the signs that may indicate a drinking problem. If you’re concerned that you or someone you know has a drinking problem, please get help.
What to Do If You Suspect a Problem
If you suspect that you or someone you know has a drinking problem, many resources are available to help.
Treatment is a process. The first step is to talk to a qualified health professional. They can screen for alcoholism and help you get the treatment you need.
Several rehab programs and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) groups across the country can provide support and assistance.
If you think you have a drinking problem, don’t wait to get help. There are many treatment options available. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances for recovery.
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