Alcoholism, also known as alcohol addiction or alcohol use disorder, is a condition in which a person has a physical and psychological dependence on alcohol. It is characterized by a strong urge to drink, difficulty controlling the amount consumed, and continued use despite negative consequences. If you have reason to believe that someone is an alcoholic, you may see certain behaviors that indicate they may be struggling with addiction and in need of support.
Read on to learn more about these behaviors and what to do if you or someone close to you might have a drinking problem.
Alcoholic Behaviors
Firstly, there are behaviors that point to the fact that someone has an addiction to alcohol. They can take the form of the following:
- Drinking more than intended or for longer periods of time
- Difficulty cutting down or stopping drinking
- Spending a significant amount of time drinking, recovering from drinking, or thinking about drinking
- Craving alcohol or experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking
- Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school due to drinking
- Continuing to drink despite negative consequences, such as problems with finances or legal issues
- Losing interest in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed
- Drinking in dangerous situations, such as while driving or operating heavy machinery
- Experiencing physical health problems related to alcohol use, like liver damage or high blood pressure
- Developing a tolerance and needing to drink more to feel the effects of alcohol
If left untreated, alcohol addiction is a progressive disorder that tends to get worse over time and can cause serious health and social issues. It’s also important to keep in mind that, given the nature of addiction, it can be challenging for someone who is exhibiting the symptoms to acknowledge the signs or the possibility that their level of drinking may be to blame.
This deflection can make it difficult to help the person suffering from these signs realize that they need help, as often their natural reaction will be to minimize the effects their drinking has had on their life or to place the blame somewhere else so that their addiction can continue. However, there is help available.
Emotional and Psychological Symptoms of Alcoholism
Alcoholics may also experience a number of emotional and psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and irritability. They may have trouble controlling their emotions and act aggressively or impulsively when drinking. They may also have memory problems and trouble concentrating.
Alcoholism and Relationships
Alcoholics may also have difficulty maintaining relationships, both romantic and platonic, due to their drinking. They may alienate friends and family members and have trouble keeping a job or maintaining a stable living situation.
What to Do if You Expect Someone You Love Is an Alcoholic
Alcohol addiction is a treatable condition. If you expect someone you love to be an alcoholic, try to get them treatment options, such as therapy, medications, and support groups. With the right treatment and support, an individual with alcoholism can recover and lead a healthy, fulfilling life.
It is important to seek professional help if you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction. A healthcare professional can assess the severity of the addiction and recommend the most appropriate course of treatment, such as that available at Northbound Addiction Treatment Center – Newport Beach. Our amazing team will help with our fully licensed medical detox center and will be there every step of the way.
