Many people can pick up a drink at a party or while dining out and have no problem having just one drink. However, not everyone has this ability. Millions of Americans have a drinking problem. Alcohol is legal, so it is easy to think that it can’t be that harmful. But the truth is, alcohol is a drug, and it’s just as harmful as any other drug. Therefore, knowing the signs of alcoholism is extremely important.
But how do you know when use turns to abuse? If someone drinks regularly but seems to struggle with stopping drinking, how can you tell if that person may be suffering from alcoholism? The best way to ensure people get the proper help when they need it is to recognize the signs of alcoholism. An alcohol addiction treatment program can provide needed support. To learn more, call us today at 662.222.2989.
The Most Common Signs of Alcoholism
Alcohol use disorder is characterized by:
Loss of Control
This includes engaging in substance use for longer than a person intended, more frequently than desired, or even when a person knows he or she should stop.
Neglecting Responsibilities
Many individuals struggling with alcohol addiction may fall behind in school, perform poorly at work, or neglect family obligations due to substance use.
Poor Behavior
Addiction may cause a person to take part in activities or to take risks that a person may not otherwise engage in.
The Strain on Personal Relationships
As people become afflicted with substance use, many find their personal lives are affected.
Tolerance
Prolonged substance use often fosters tolerance, which means a person no longer feels the effects of the substance (in this case, alcohol).
Withdrawal
People suffering from addiction may experience withdrawal symptoms if they are trying to quit or have not used substances for a period of time.
Spotting the Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder in Loved Ones
People who are suffering from alcoholism may exhibit many signs of their struggle. If you are close to someone you suspect may be at risk of addiction, there are a number of behaviors and activities which may contribute. Recognizing these behaviors is key to identifying an alcohol use disorder and to getting the person the help he or she needs.
Here are some common warning signs of alcohol use disorder to look out for:
- Consuming more alcohol than originally intended or extending the duration of drinking sessions, leading to increased tolerance and potential health risks.
- Devoting significant amounts of time to drinking, which could occur on multiple occasions per week or for prolonged periods each day, impacting personal relationships and responsibilities.
- Experiencing strong urges to drink that may feel more like a necessity than a mere desire, often leading to difficulty controlling the amount and frequency of alcohol consumption.
- Observing the negative impact of drinking on one’s daily life, including work, school, or family responsibilities, which can result in decreased productivity and strained relationships.
- Persisting with alcohol consumption despite expressed concerns from family or friends, as well as relationship issues arising from drinking habits, indicating a potential loss of control over alcohol use.
- Exhibiting withdrawal symptoms when attempting to abstain from alcohol, such as heightened anxiety, depression, insomnia, excessive perspiration, irritability, nausea, or tremors, highlighting the physical and psychological dependence on alcohol.
It’s important to note that these signs may vary from person to person, and professional help should be sought for proper assessment and support.
Treating Alcohol Addiction
Though many individuals who struggle with alcoholism do not seek help for their addiction, it is important to note that alcoholism is a treatable condition. Effective treatment programs for alcohol addiction typically incorporate a combination of behavioral therapy, medication, and community support.
Behavioral therapy plays a crucial role in helping individuals in treatment understand and modify the behaviors that contribute to their alcoholism. Through both individual and group counseling sessions, participants gain valuable insights and learn new coping mechanisms to effectively deal with stress, triggers, and other situations that may lead to drinking.
In addition to behavioral therapy, medication can also be utilized as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for alcohol addiction. Medications can help to reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, and support long-term recovery.
By combining these different approaches, individuals struggling with alcohol addiction can receive the comprehensive care and support they need to overcome their addiction and achieve lasting sobriety. It is important to remember that seeking help and engaging in a treatment program can make a significant difference in one’s journey toward recovery.
Find Help for Alcohol Use Disorder at Woodland Recovery Center
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol use disorder, know that you aren’t alone. At Woodland Recovery Center, we offer a comprehensive treatment program that uses a variety of evidence-based therapies to help our patients overcome addiction and achieve lasting recovery. Reach out to our team at 662.222.2989 to learn more.
