Alcohol may be the most popular drug in the world, but the misery and anguish of an alcohol problem can be as devastating as that of hard narcotics. The signs of alcoholism are sometimes easily missed or not taken seriously because of the popularity of alcohol and drinking culture. Nonetheless, spotting the signs of alcohol abuse early could mean the difference between life and death.
Unlike other drugs, alcohol does not require paraphernalia or equipment for its creation or consumption. Thus, the signs of alcohol abuse come directly the behavior of the drinker:
This is especially true when a person’s drinking starts affecting the other parts of their life. Even if their academic and professional performance suffers, even if they lose interest in activities or hobbies, or even if their relationships deteriorate because of their overuse of alcohol, they are unwilling or unable to stop drinking to reverse the slide. This is one of the clearest signs of alcohol abuse.
In 2012, almost 25 percent of American adults reported to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration that they went binge drinking in the previous month. While this is dangerous – five consecutive drinks or more for men, four consecutive drinks or more for women – it’s a sign of a culture that does not fully appreciate the dangers of flirting with an alcohol abuse problem.
Fortunately, even when things get bad, treatment can help you start over. That’s why we are standing by to answer your questions about alcohol abuse and to give you the information you need about getting help for a problem. Our dual diagnosis treatment programs can help you overcome your compulsion to drink and teach you how you can keep yourself clean and sober for the rest of your life. Please call us now to start the process of your recovery.
Integrated Treatment of Substance Abuse & Mental Illness