Did you know that in 2022, about 10.96% of American adults had an alcohol use disorder? Of those, about 93.5% have not been able to receive any form of treatment.
Alcoholism is a dangerous disease. Knowing the warning signs of alcoholism can help you seek help before it damages your life beyond repair.
If you suspect that you or a loved one is suffering from alcohol addiction, then look no further. This article will provide you with the information you need to know.
Let’s explore the top early signs that you may have an alcohol addiction.
1. Drinking Excessive Amounts of Alcohol
When you drink too much alcohol, you may find it challenging to manage your emotions. You may also need to reach for a drink whenever you encounter some form of emotional difficulty. You may also find that you cannot manage your cravings and begin to drink compulsively.
Binging on drinks may cause you to black out after drinking or to forget what or how much you did while drinking. You may also find yourself needing and wanting to drink more and more to achieve the same level of intoxication.
People may also drink excessive amounts of alcohol as they have increased their tolerance. Symptoms of increased alcohol tolerance include the ability to drink more alcohol before feeling the effects and feeling less impaired after drinking.
2. Drinking More Often
People with alcohol addiction will find themselves making excuses to have another drink. They insist that it is needed for a celebration or gathering with friends. If you drink daily or several times a week rather than 1-2 times a month, you may want to consider that you have an addiction.
People that drink often or are addicted to drinking may also neglect their duties. This consists of not fulfilling your obligations at home, such as doing dishes, taking out the garbage, mowing the lawn, etc. Additionally, it may impact your capacity to perform your job correctly and on time.
Another sign can be as small as losing your keys more than you previously did.
3. You Need a Drink for Stress Relief
If you need a drink to take the edge off after a hard day at work or to cope with other circumstances, this could be a sign of alcohol addiction. This could also mean you drink to numb a bad feeling or even celebrate a good one. You might also feel the desire to drink heavily or alone to feel a sense of control and power.
These behaviors could indicate an unhealthy relationship with alcohol, and you should seek help. It’s also important to recognize when it’s time to stop drinking, even if drinking may be a way to cope with stress. Stress has many more healthy coping options, such as exercise, meditation, and mindfulness.
Alcohol addiction is often rooted in psychological issues centered around fitting in and being accepted in social settings. If you need to have a few drinks before you feel comfortable around other people or you only feel accepted when your peers are also drinking, you may be reliant to alcohol.
Constantly relying on alcohol to feel comfortable around others can indicate a drinking problem. It is common for people to drink to be accepted in a social setting. However, when drinking becomes the only way someone feels accepted, this could be a serious problem.
If you find yourself choosing alcohol as a relief more and more, speak to a professional and get help. Finding the proper support can make all the difference in returning to a healthier lifestyle. Some rehab centers offer therapy options to help people who need the appropriate addiction treatment.
4. Developing Medical Issues
These can include stomach problems, digestive issues, cardiovascular problems, and possibly even cancer. You may also experience changes in your blood pressure, heart rate, and liver damage. If you have liver dysfunction, it can lead to the development of other medical conditions, such as jaundice.
Additionally, long-term alcoholism can lead to changes in your mood and behavior. It can also lead to an increased risk of depression and other mental health issues. Moreover, people, who feel the effects of withdrawal after abstaining from alcohol for more than 8 hours, can exhibit symptoms like sweating, shaking, and nausea, which may suggest an addiction.
If you are experiencing any of these problems, it’s essential to seek professional help. Don’t wait for your alcohol addiction to lead to severe and potentially irreversible health issues.
Financial Problems
With the costs associated with ongoing alcohol abuse, an individual may be unable to afford their basic needs. This could lead to unpaid bills and debt accumulating rapidly.
It could also hinder careers or studies, and an inability to concentrate and a pattern of missed deadlines could occur. Along with financial issues, a person suffering from alcohol addiction may start experiencing problems in social or family settings. They may also begin to exhibit aggressive or erratic behavior.
Alcohol addiction can also lead to problems with the law. If you’re arrested or involved in a legal altercation while under the influence, you have an alcohol problem. Instances such as driving while driving, being intoxicated in public, or being found with an open container of alcohol can all lead to legal complications.
Additionally, if your drinking has led to vandalism, theft, assault, or other criminal charges, this can affect your life. It’s essential to seek assistance if you’re experiencing any of these legal issues due to your drinking, as these are also potential signs of alcohol addiction.
Addressing Alcohol Addiction Before It Becomes a More Serious Problem
Alcohol addiction is a severe disorder that can devastate your life. Awareness of the signs and symptoms is essential to catch a potential problem in the early stages.
If you think you may be struggling with alcohol addiction, you must reach out for help. Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or medical professional and get the treatment you need.
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