Most people enjoy drinking an alcoholic beverage in social settings. Some of us even drink a beer or a glass of wine in the evening after a hard day’s work. However, there are a few people that drink alcohol to excess, and it’s impacting their lives in a big way.
Alcohol addiction isn’t anything new, nor is it a problem that will go away of its own accord. Did you know that the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates around 140 million people globally are alcoholics? It’s likely you are reading this blog post because you have concerns that you have an alcohol dependency.
If any of these telltale signs ring true for you, it might be that you are addicted to alcohol:
- You hide or lie about your drinking
One of the sad facts about alcohol addiction is that it causes people to lie about their drinking problem. Many alcoholics lie to loved ones about the volume of beer or spirits they consume.
- Only alcohol can help you to relax
We all do a variety of things to help us relax and unwind after a long day, especially if we haven’t had a good one. If the only thing that helps you chill out is alcohol, you may have an addiction problem.
- You can’t remember what happens when you get drunk
Have little to no recollection of events during a drinking session? If the answer’s yes, you are drinking to excess. ADAPT Programs, for example, can help you get treatment if you have to drink so much to “have fun.”
- You drink more than you eat
Many people addicted to alcohol tend to drink more than they eat. As you can appreciate, that can lead to serious health problems and may even lead to various medical disorders and diseases.
- You keep secret stashes of beer or spirits
Some people find they need alcohol to get them through the day. At work, for example, some folks may have a flask of whiskey or other spirits hidden away for a “secret swig” when no-one is looking.
- You’re always broke
Alcoholic drinks aren’t exactly cheap to buy. If you consume vast quantities of such drinks each week, it’s likely it will put a huge dent in your finances. For some people, they get to the point where they could lose their homes due to non-payment of rent or mortgages.
- You regularly endanger other people’s lives with your drinking
Driving under the influence of alcohol is a criminal offense and can lead to fines and jail time. If you drink and drive, or have done so more than once, you’re not just harming your body. You could potentially hurt other people on the road if you crash into them.
- You are having relationship problems
Does your spouse or partner regularly argue with you over your drinking? If so, it sounds like they are worried you are developing (or have developed) an alcohol addiction. Most relationships suffer when one person has a drinking problem.
Do I Have AUD?
What is AUD? AUD, or alcohol use disorder, is a chronic and relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over alcohol intake, and a negative emotional state when not using. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, please get help from a qualified alcohol addiction treatment provider. There are many resources available to help you get started on the road to recovery.