Alcohol addiction can destroy nearly every area of your life: family, job, finances, health. It impacts people of all ages and has far-reaching consequences. One of the main reasons why alcoholism can be destructive is that people often don’t recognize or acknowledge the signs of alcohol addiction until it’s too late.
Regardless of the severity or longevity of the addiction, it is possible to overcome alcohol abuse and move into a lasting recovery without drinking. Whether you struggle with alcoholism or has a loved one with the problem, knowing the signs of alcohol addiction is the first step in seeking recovery. For more information about the alcohol addiction treatment program available at Women’s Recovery, contact us today at 833.754.0554 today.
What Are the Signs of Alcohol Addiction?
The signs and symptoms of alcohol addiction differ from person to person. This is because several factors lead to alcoholism, such as family traits, environment, stress, or mental disorder. Some of the most common signs that a person has a problem with drinking include:
Frequent Intoxication
Addiction is often characterized by frequent behavior that turns into a pattern. With alcoholism, the person continues to drink until they get drunk. Once every few months or years is one thing. But getting drinking every time they turn up the bottle is another. Eventually, a person may get drunk every day.
Changes in Behavior
Drinking doesn’t just affect the person when they are drinking. It can creep into every area of their life and change their behavior. You may notice differences in dress, routine, sleep, or appetite. A person may start hanging around other people, usually people who also drink or engage in behavior that is risky or irresponsible.
Legal Problems
A leading problem with drinking is that it can cause someone to lose their inhibition and judgment. Therefore, they may engage in illegal behavior. A person may get into a car drive away and get pulled over by the cops. They may be charged with a DUI, which can cause their life to spiral out of control.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Someone who has a problem with drinking too much may try to quit. As a result, they experience withdrawal symptoms that can kill their motivation and lead to a relapse. Common withdrawal symptoms include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Delirium tremens
- Shaking
- Sweating
- Agitation or restlessness
- Fatigue
- Nightmares
An Obsession with Alcohol
For some people, drinking is an occasional activity that they may engage in at a social gathering or during a ball game. The alcoholic is obsessed with alcohol. They can’t stop thinking about it even when they are not drinking. Their entire life is dictated by their ability to get another drink as soon as possible.
Mixing Alcohol with Other Substances
Some drugs are gateways to other drugs. Someone with a drinking problem may start experimenting with other substances. They may turn to marijuana, cigarettes, prescription medication, or other substances that they take alongside the alcohol. This can lead to numerous health problems and the risk of overdose.
Denial That There is a Problem
When confronted by other people about their drinking, the alcoholic may deny that there is a problem. They may get defensive, change the subject, or walk away from the conversation. Getting them to deny they have a problem causes them to think about change. The idea of change is scary.
Contact Us if You Need Help with Your Addiction
If you would like to know more about the signs of alcohol addiction, then contact Women’s Recovery today. We offer outpatient treatment for alcoholism and other addictions. Call 833.754.0554 to find out your treatment options and get started on the road to recovery.
