Let’s say you have a few drinks here and there because it’s the normal thing to do: happy hour with coworkers, date night with your significant other, watching a movie at home by yourself… but at what point do you have to start asking yourself, “am I an alcoholic?”
Alcohol addiction is a dependence on alcohol to the point where the user has lost control in his or her consumption. At this point, it begins having negative effects on that person’s life. However, everyone experiences alcohol addiction differently and it may present itself in various ways.
Answering Am I An Alcoholic
An alcohol addiction may begin with social drinking or general curiosity, but it can quickly develop into an emotional and psychological dependence. Excessive alcohol consumption can cause severe health problems, so it’s important to seek addiction therapy services before it causes too much damage.
When asking yourself “am I an alcoholic?”, there are a few key signs to look for. If you notice at least two of these symptoms presenting themselves in the past year, it’s probably time to seek medical treatment:
- Having to drink more alcohol than previously required to produce desired effects
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when effects of alcohol wear off (nausea, sweating, shakiness, etc.)
- Craving or having a strong desire for alcohol
- Unintentionally drinking more or for a longer period of time
- Multiple unsuccessful attempts to quit or cut back consumption
- Drinking when there is added risk for physical harm (e.g. driving, swimming, etc.)
- Cutting back on other activities in order to drink
- Developing problems with friends and family due to alcohol
- Drinking interfering with your ability to perform at home, work, or school
- Continuing to drink despite being aware of its negative effects
Treatment for Alcohol Addiction
Chronic alcohol addiction can lead to an array of long-term health problems, seeking a treatment plan sooner rather than later is best. If you don’t treat your alcohol addiction, it can lead to:
- Cancer
- Infectious diseases
- Cirrhosis
- Cardiovascular disease
- Pancreatitis
- High blood pressure
The sooner you ask yourself “am I an alcoholic?” the sooner you can begin leading a healthier life. There are many alcohol addiction treatment centers that can target the specific needs of someone with an alcohol addiction.
Alcohol addiction isn’t the end of the road. Recovery starts with having the courage to admit you have a problem and deciding to seek treatment. Contact Red Oak Recovery® in Leicester, NC about our options for alcohol addiction treatment at 866-457-7590.
