It’s never too late to get help for an alcohol addiction. If you’re wondering if you have a problem, a telling indication is that you’re wondering in the first place. Unfortunately, you may have some of the most common signs of alcoholism. Above all, remember that you’re not alone, and recovery is always possible. Exploring the most common signs of alcohol addiction helps you determine if you need help.
The Five Signs of Alcohol Addiction
There are five notable signs of alcohol addiction. If you or a loved one exhibit any of these signs, you’ll need to seek drug addiction treatment as soon as possible. Take the time to understand these today because you might not realize you have a problem.
1. You Can’t Seem to Stop
Overall, addiction is real, and it’s serious. A life without alcohol may seem scary, especially when thinking of the impending severity of alcohol withdrawal. The reality is, if you wanted to stop drinking, you would’ve done so a long time ago. This is why the proper support throughout the recovery process is so important. In alcohol rehab, you’ll learn how to effectively cope with your addiction.
If you have an alcohol addiction, you may also find that you have problems with:
- Empathy
- Logical decision-making
- Self-awareness
- Impulse Control
- Emotional regulation
2. You Use Alcohol to Deal with Emotional Issues
If you use alcohol to avoid emotional problems, this is a sign of alcohol addiction. Many alcoholics have co-occurring disorders they aren’t aware of. These are mental illnesses that make emotional problems extremely overwhelming, while alcohol acts as a numbing agent. There are better and healthier ways to cope. Alcohol addiction and the problems accompanying it put a strain on relationships and obscure healthy decision-making skills.
3. You Lie About Your Drinking
If you lie about how much you drink or whether you drink at all, you may be trying to hide it. Society will tell you that an occasional drink is okay. However, if you’re uncomfortable with sharing how much you drink or the time of day you drink, you may be an alcoholic. Overall, the specifics of your substance abuse help you address your alcoholism. In a recovery program, you’ll get the necessary help without judgment.
4. You Have Strained Relationships
Whether you’re drunk or sober, you seem to struggle with any relationship. You can’t seem to have healthy interactions with your children, boss, neighbors or spouse. Usually, alcoholics have a hard time relating to anyone other than peers struggling with addiction as well. Those closest to you are likely to notice your addiction first. If they’re codependent, they might enable you. If they’re fed up, they may remove themselves from your life. Above all, your addiction will keep you from having rewarding relationships, which may lead to further emotional strife.
5. You Cannot Function in Life
Many alcoholics have problems with daily decision-making. This affects any personal commitments or responsibilities. Indefinitely, alcoholics struggle to hide their addiction. Because of this, they may lose their jobs, be unable to maintain employment, or be unable to adhere to personal commitments.
Now that you know the signs of alcohol addiction, if you suspect you’re an alcoholic, it’s time to make a decision. Don’t let alcohol addiction control your life. You won’t have to do it alone. At 1st Step Behavioral Health in Pompano Beach, Florida, you’ll find supportive, caring staff who will ease the recovery process for you. Call us today at (855) 425-4846 to transform yourself and begin living again.