When you have concerns that a loved one may be struggling with alcoholism, it is crucial to recognise the signs of this condition and determine the appropriate moment to take action. While some signs may be overt, others can be subtle and challenging to identify. By educating yourself about the typical signs and symptoms associated with this condition, you may be in a position to motivate your loved one to pursue addiction treatment before their situation worsens.
Recognising the signs of alcoholism is an essential step in initiating the recovery process, whether for yourself or someone close to you. In this blog post, let’s explore some of the telltale symptoms of alcoholism and the various treatments to manage them.
Understanding Alcoholism
Alcohol functions as a sedative, often inducing feelings of fatigue or relaxation in individuals. However, those suffering from alcoholism may respond differently, sometimes experiencing heightened energy levels that can result in poor decision-making and risky behaviours.
As a disease, alcoholism affects both physical health and mental well-being. It is characterised by an inability to regulate alcohol use, even when it leads to significant health issues and impacts critical aspects of life, including relationships, family dynamics, social interactions, employment, or education.
While occasional drinking may not automatically lead to addiction, it becomes problematic when it causes conflicts and disrupts various facets of an individual’s life. In such instances, a diagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) may be applied, which can vary in severity from mild to severe, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse.
Recognising Warning Signs Of Alcoholism
If you have concerns that a loved one may be struggling with alcohol problems, it is crucial to identify the warning signs. Educate yourself on these indicators to effectively support your loved one in overcoming alcohol use problems.
Physical Signs
It can be challenging to identify whether someone has a problem just by observing them. However, certain signs may be evident, such as the lingering scent of alcohol on their breath or clothing, which can persist for hours after significant consumption. In addition, you might observe signs of premature aging, including dry and wrinkled skin, yellowing of the eyes and skin, poor personal hygiene, and broken blood vessels on the face and nose. Many individuals struggling with alcohol use problems may also experience weight loss as they prioritise drinking over eating.
Once an individual develops alcoholism, they become susceptible to various physical side effects and health complications linked to excessive drinking. Some of the long-term physical effects associated with heavy alcohol use include liver disease related to alcohol, an increased risk of cancer, a higher likelihood of heart disease, elevated blood pressure and stroke, a compromised immune system, and digestive issues.
Excessive Alcohol Use
An individual may experience difficulties related to drinking too much or excessive alcohol use if they engage in binge drinking. Those diagnosed with severe alcohol use problems may partake in heavy drinking multiple times each month over an extended period.
Alcohol Cravings
The distinction between an average individual and one suffering from problematic alcohol use lies primarily in the persistent urge to consume alcohol. They often encounter intense cravings that compel them to drink, leading to challenges in regulating their alcohol intake.
Tolerance To Alcohol
Exceeding the recommended alcohol consumption limits consistently can result in the initial phases of alcoholism, characterised by heightened tolerance. Consequently, individuals may discover that they require larger quantities of alcohol to achieve the desired effects.
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
Long-term alcohol or substance abuse can lead to dependence which results in withdrawal symptoms. A prominent indicator of alcoholism is the onset of withdrawal, which can manifest just hours after the last drink. You may experience withdrawal symptoms like shaking, anxiety, irritability, restlessness, feelings of depression, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, headaches, fatigue, or insomnia. In severe cases, individuals may experience blackouts, seizures, confusion, or hallucinations.
Negative Consequences Due To Drinking
A key indicator of alcoholism is the emergence of negative consequences linked to drinking. You might observe an increase in encounters with law enforcement. If you find yourself repeatedly facing arrests due to your drinking habits while your alcohol intake remains unchanged, this could signal a potential issue with alcoholism.
Furthermore, you may experience personal, academic, or professional repercussions. Suppose your drinking interferes with your ability to complete tasks, participate in family gatherings, or meet your obligations. All of these signs indicate that there is unmanageability in a person’s life. In that case, your alcohol use has become problematic, potentially leading to an addiction.
Unsuccessful Attempt To Stop Drinking
Numerous individuals grappling with alcohol abuse and alcoholism express a clear desire to stop their alcohol use. However, they often find themselves unable to do so due to a variety of complex social, biological, and emotional factors.
Drinking As a Coping Mechanism
A key indicator of alcohol dependence and problematic drinking is the reliance on alcohol as a means to address emotional issues. If you find yourself consuming alcohol for this purpose, it suggests that you are dealing with a psychological dependence on it. Numerous individuals who struggle with alcohol-related issues often use drinking as a way to alleviate negative emotional states, including depression and anxiety.
Lying About And Hiding Alcohol Use
Deceiving others about your problem drinking indicates a state of denial. While such dishonesty might provide a temporary cover against acknowledging the severity of your issue, the truth will eventually surface. The signs of alcohol abuse are often quite apparent to those close to you, such as friends and family members.
Relationship Problems
A significant indicator of alcohol use disorder is the deterioration of relationships due to your drinking habits. If individuals in your life are distancing themselves because of your conduct while under the influence, it may suggest that your alcohol use has escalated to an alcoholic level. For instance, experiencing a separation, divorce, or breakup may be a result of your inability to reduce or cease drinking.
Emotional And Psychological Signs
Alcohol use disorder may elevate the likelihood of experiencing emotional and mental health issues. Emotional repercussions of alcohol misuse can encompass the development of mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, challenges in managing emotions, a heightened risk of psychosis, and diminished motivation.
Behavioural Signs
An individual who has consumed alcohol may exhibit specific behavioural signs and symptoms. Although these indicators do not automatically suggest an alcohol use problem, a consistent manifestation of such behaviours may indicate that the person is participating in hazardous drinking patterns. These signs include reduced inhibitions, challenges with memory and concentration, slurred speech, impaired motor skills, confusion, difficulties in learning, or poor academic performance.
Risks Associated With Alcoholism
Alcohol consumption is deeply ingrained in many cultures, making its consequences and risks less apparent at first glance. Many individuals have encountered hangovers or struggled through challenging workdays after a night of excessive drinking. While such experiences are typically manageable, those who engage in heavy alcohol use may find themselves facing these adverse effects more often. This pattern can result in significant health issues and negatively impact various life domains.
People with signs of an alcohol problem may face the risks of developing severe headaches, nausea, diarrhoea, blurred vision, abdominal pain, anxiety, depression, irreversible brain damage, liver cirrhosis, chronic pancreatitis, tremors, and cancers affecting the mouth and oesophagus, as well as cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease.
What Causes Alcoholism?
The exact causes of problematic alcohol use are not fully understood. However, certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing this condition.
Individuals with a family history of substance use disorders face a greater risk of experiencing similar issues themselves. Research suggests that parental drinking behaviours can greatly influence the chances of their children developing problematic alcohol consumption in the future.
Furthermore, extensive research has demonstrated that those who begin drinking alcohol in their teenage years are 70% more likely to encounter problems with alcohol use later in life compared to individuals who start drinking at 25 or older.
Treatments For Alcoholism
If an individual exhibits signs of alcoholism, it is crucial to seek appropriate alcohol addiction treatment to facilitate a safe and sustainable recovery. It is important to identify a programme that encompasses:
Detoxification
Detoxification, commonly referred to as ‘detox,’ is an essential phase of treatment. This process entails the complete cessation of alcohol consumption under medical supervision, allowing the body to adjust to the absence of alcohol. During this period, individuals may encounter symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal.
Residential Treatment
Residential treatment is a comprehensive care option designed to assist individuals in addressing alcohol use problems. Depending on their unique needs, participants must reside at the facility for a duration varying from several days to several months. This form of treatment ensures ongoing support and guidance from qualified professionals who are available 24/7.
Therapy
Individual therapy is a tailored approach employed by mental health professionals to meet the specific needs of each individual. This process involves establishing personal objectives, addressing symptoms, and developing coping mechanisms in a one-on-one environment. It enables individuals to gain insight into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours by examining their past experiences, concentrating on their current situation, and strategising for the future through various therapeutic techniques.
Among the most prevalent individual therapies for addressing compulsive alcohol consumption are cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT).
How To Encourage An Alcoholic To Seek Help
If someone you care about shows signs of alcoholism, it can be hard to know how to respond. You may feel worried, frustrated by their lack of desire for help, or even scared for their safety. These feelings are completely normal, and there are resources available for both those struggling with alcohol use problem and their loved ones.
If possible, open a conversation with the person you’re worried about and encourage them to see a healthcare provider or visit a rehab. If you go with them to a medical appointment, ask for a clear explanation about their condition, its long-term effects, and recovery options in simple terms.
However, when a loved one refuses to acknowledge their problem, knowing how to assist them can be challenging. Remember, change is only possible if they are ready to accept it. Instead of trying to persuade them to seek help, focus on creating a safe and accepting environment until they become ready to ask for professional assistance. Let them know you are there for them no matter what and that their condition can be treated.
Discover Our Treatment For Alcohol Addiction
If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol, it’s important to remember that support is available. Alcoholism does not define you, and it’s okay to admit that help is needed.
Acknowledging the signs is the first part of a journey towards a better life, and every step forward is a part of the process toward hope. Let our compassionate experts here at Liberty Home Clinic guide you in your recovery journey.
