Alcohol addiction is a serious disease that needs to be addressed right away before it spirals out of control.
Watching someone you love struggle with alcohol abuse is one of life’s more challenging experiences. Unfortunately, the warning signs of addiction are not always clear-cut and are, for some, easy to hide. Those suffering from addiction can become experts at hiding their disease and may not exhibit obvious warning signs, making it easy to overlook abuse. However, something that may seem harmless, such as social drinking, can turn into a serious issue over time. It is essential to watch for and signs of alcohol abuse and never to ignore its warning signs.
If you are concerned that someone you love is suffering from alcohol abuse, continue reading below.
5 Warning Signs of Alcohol Addiction
There are numerous warning signs that can help detect alcohol addiction. Some signs are easily recognizable, while others can be more challenging to identify. The severity of abuse can play a role in the behaviors and warning signs a loved one exhibits. Here are five signs a person is suffering from alcohol addiction:
- Cannot Limit or Control Their Drinking
The definition of moderate drinking challenging to define because it can mean different things to different people. Though, it typically means drinking that does not cause overall problems and generally does not cause worry. On the other hand, people who drink excessive amounts of alcohol or those who cannot limit or control their drinking are considered binge drinkers, which is often a gateway to alcoholism. People dealing with a drinking problem will find themselves needing to drink more and more amounts of alcohol to feel the original effects of consuming alcohol. - Continued Use of Alcohol When Issue is Known
Individuals may be made aware of their drinking problems by interventions or more serious circumstances, such as receiving divorce papers or getting a DUI. Those that continue to abuse alcohol despite an awareness of their issues may be suffering from alcohol addiction. - Experiences Withdrawal Symptoms When Not Drinking
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can develop when a person with a drinking problem suddenly stops consuming alcohol, including both mental and physical symptoms. Some of these symptoms include insomnia, headaches, nausea, vomiting, sweating, anxiety, irritability, depression, and rapid heartbeat. More severe symptoms might consist of hallucinations, concussions, blackouts, and more, which require immediate medical assistance. - Unable to Control Alcohol Consumption
Those struggling with alcoholism may have difficulties controlling the amount of alcohol they consume. Once they have reached a certain amount, they might not be able to stop drinking. After they have reached that point, they keep going until they are entirely inebriated and do not think about the consequences of consuming too much. - Absent from Responsibilities
Someone suffering from alcohol abuse might be literally or figuratively absent from work, school, or other responsibilities. Commitments they have made and their responsibilities are placed on the back burner, and alcohol takes priority. Whether it be a result of shame or physically unable to carry out these tasks, alcoholics often are absent from their roles and duties.
Contact Steps Recovery Centers
Watching for signs of alcohol addiction can save a loved one’s life. Once alcohol abuse is established, getting adequate and professional help is essential. The professionals at Steps Recovery Addiction Center can help those suffering from a drinking problem get the treatment they need. Our experienced and knowledgeable staff can offer assistance to those all across the state of Utah, from Salt Lake City down to the southern part of the state in St. George. You can find peace of mind knowing that the person you love is on the road to recovery with Steps Recovery Centers. For more information, contact us today.
