In learning about signs of alcoholic behavior, one should consider two important concepts from the beginning.
First, denial is the No. 1 symptom of alcoholism. An alcoholic will make endless excuses and rationalizations about his behavior before finally admitting the reality of a progressive alcoholic pattern.
Second, people who are not alcoholics don’t wonder whether they might be alcoholics. Given that vital framework, if one wonders about signs that he or she might be an alcoholic, medical doctors and psychotherapists have devised some checklists.
Concerned about alcoholism? Talk to us today about alcohol addiction rehab by calling 833.433.0448.
Understanding Alcoholism’s Signs
Mayo Clinic’s signs of alcoholism include the inability to limit the amount of alcohol consumed, development of tolerance for alcohol so that more is needed to feel its effects, drinking alone or hiding one’s drinking, inability to remember conversations or commitments while drinking, and keeping alcohol in unlikely places at home or at work.
An example of alcoholic behavior is someone who sets out to drink just a beer after work, but regularly ends up drinking a six-pack instead. They could be headed for alcoholism. Likewise, hiding a bottle of vodka in the closet even when the household liquor cabinet is full could indicate a problem.
Psychology Today defines alcoholism as a pattern of drinking that results in one or more of the following situations: failure to fulfill major work, school or home responsibilities; drinking in physically dangerous situations, such as while driving; having alcohol-related legal problems; and continued drinking despite ongoing relationship problems.
Symptoms of Alcoholism
In fact, there are many different symptoms of alcoholism. Some people may become argumentative or hostile when they drink, while others may become depressed or withdrawn. People who are alcoholics may also have blackouts, in which they cannot remember what happened while they were drinking.
Some common symptoms include:
- Drinking more alcohol than intended
- Having to drink alcohol to feel normal or relax
- Feeling the need to drink more and more alcohol to achieve the desired effect
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, sweating, shakiness, or anxiety when not drinking
- Drinking in secret
- Having problems at work or with relationships due to drinking
- Continuing to drink even though it is causing health problems
If you are worried that you or someone you know may be exhibiting symptoms of alcoholism, it is important to seek help. There are many treatment options available, and with the right support, recovery is possible. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it. There is no shame in seeking treatment for alcoholism. You are not alone.
Who Do People Become Alcoholics?
Probably the most frequently asked question about the signs of being an alcoholic is “Why?” Why does someone continue to drink despite obvious indications of alcoholism? The question has baffled problem drinkers and their loved ones ad infinitum. An alcoholic can come up with endless “reasons” why. They all boil down to one thing: an alcoholic drinks to change the way he or she feels.
At first, alcohol does that. In fact, it:
- Makes a shy person more outgoing
- Helps a stressed person relax
- May even make a sad person feel happier
And this all happens despite the fact that alcohol is a depressant. It slowly quits working, and the drinker begins to experience a slow and painful progression of the more dangerous signs of alcoholism.
Get Help Today
If you are worried that you or someone you know may be exhibiting symptoms of alcoholism, it is important to seek help. There are many treatment options available, and with the right support, recovery is possible. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it. There is no shame in seeking treatment for alcoholism. You are not alone.
Don’t suffer alone. Remember that recovery is possible. Call us today at 833.433.0448 for help.