By: Lakeview Health
Addiction to alcohol is one of the most common forms of substance abuse in the United States. Due to its prevalence and the ability to purchase alcohol legally, it is easy for individuals to become addicted to alcohol. This also makes staying sober more difficult, as well. While other drugs might require an illicit purchase, alcohol is for sale in stores around the country. That is why you need to be there for your loved one when they show alcoholism signs. There is a greater chance of detox and rehab success when there is help. However, if you’re not sure whether to bring up a potential alcohol addiction with the person you care about, you need to know the alcoholism signs.
Common Alcoholism Signs
There are many common alcoholism signs you need to be on the lookout for. Everyone reacts to alcohol a bit differently. So you may notice some of these symptoms but no other signs. The most common symptoms of abusing alcohol include:
- Short-term memory loss or “blacking out”
- Drinking alone, in private, or doing it in secret out of fear of being judged
- Suffering from a hangover feeling when not drinking
- Avoiding responsibilities and going for a drink instead
- Making excuses for drinking
- Mood swings or showing signs of irritability
Signs Of an Alcohol Disorder
In some instances, an individual may not often drink but suffer one or more of the alcoholism signs mentioned. This may happen because the body is not accustomed to alcohol. However, for individuals who do consume alcohol regularly, several signs may point to alcohol as a disorder.
If a person craves alcohol and the way it makes them feel, that is a sign of dependency. Often after suffering from a serious hangover, an individual might say they will cut down on their alcohol consumption. However, if they are unable to cut down, then they may have formed a dependency on alcohol. Also, if someone puts their life or the lives of others in harm’s way, so they can drink alcohol, they likely suffer from alcohol disorder. This can be anything from drinking and driving to combining alcohol with medication or performing dangerous tasks while under the influence of alcohol.
Lastly, if a person needs to increase the amount of alcohol they drink to experience the desired results, it means their body has developed a tolerance for alcohol. This increased tolerance is one of the many signs of alcoholism and an indicator they may need help.
Help Is A Phone Call Away
The best way to move forward into sobriety is to detox. Ridding your body of alcohol allows you to move forward with rehab. While your loved one is in rehab, you can be there for them as they begin their new life of sober living. Having reliable friends and family members around make remaining sober, especially early on, easier. So, if you have noticed alcoholism signs within your loved one, you should discuss the situation with them. Sometimes all it takes is knowing someone is around that cares enough to want to help. If your loved one is ready to begin rehab, has questions, or is ready to check-in, now is the time to contact Lakeview Health at [DIRECT] today.
