The Signs of Alcohol Abuse
Because alcohol is so widely available, it’s easy to justify chronic or excessive consumption. However, alcohol abuse can be dangerous and leads to severe physical and psychological problems. Those who struggle with alcohol addiction need treatment. Learn the most common signs of alcohol abuse in order to recognize the problem before it develops further.
Physical Signs of an Alcohol Dependence
If you’re trying to identify an alcohol dependence in a loved one, physical symptoms are a dead giveaway. They may not all be present, but they’re a tangible way to spot a problem and seek the right drug addiction treatment.
As a result of liver damage, excessive alcohol consumption leads to yellowing skin. You might also notice a flushed, red face, in addition to broken capillaries on the face, neck or arms.
Alcohol also causes weight fluctuation. Other physical signs of alcohol consumption include dry skin, brittle nails, or rapid aging.
Health Problems Related to Alcohol Intake
It’s no secret that alcohol consumption causes health problems. While the occasional glass of wine might be fine, the abuse of alcohol will take a physical toll. If a loved one suffers from the most common alcohol-related health problems, this could be a sign they need professional help.
Chronic or excessive alcohol intake may lead to exhaustion. Heavy drinkers might always feel run down, and it will appear they have a daily cold or flu which often goes away at night. Additionally, alcoholism leads to more severe health problems like liver damage, diabetes or lower immune system.
Changes to Social Interactions and Behavior
Unfortunately, alcohol impacts the way people interact with others. If your loved one regularly drinks, they’ll exhibit serious social changes.
The key is to look for change. A person who is normally funny and outgoing could start to withdraw. They might leave early from family events, or stop showing up altogether. If a loved one seems to have a new personality or behave in strange, unexplained ways, then you should suspect alcohol abuse.
Inability to Cut Back or Abstain From Drinking
Drinking alcohol isn’t necessarily a sign of an alcohol abuse problem. However, the inability to stop drinking, or to cut back, may be a cry for help.
For example, a person dependent on alcohol will struggle to cut back, and they might not be able to skip a day of drinking. However, if they do abstain temporarily, they might exhibit mild withdrawal symptoms.
Treating Alcohol Abuse at 1st Step Behavioral Health
Help for alcoholics is available at 1st Step Behavioral Health. Our treatment programs cater to the needs and lifestyles of all patients. By confronting addiction and offering a comprehensive treatment plan, patients prepare for lifelong sobriety. Our methods include:
- Dual diagnosis care
- Group, individual and family therapy
- Music and art therapies
- Holistic therapies like massage and acupuncture
- Focus on relapse prevention
If you notice these signs of alcohol abuse, it’s time to take action. At 1st Step Behavioral Health in Pompano Beach, Florida, your loved one has the opportunity to take control of a renewed, substance-free life. Call (855) 425-4846 to learn more about permanently overcoming an alcohol addiction.
Take the First Step Today
We can help you get better. Contact us today to find out which program might be right for you, or to begin the process of arranging for treatment.
