What Are the Common Warning Signs of Alcoholism?

 

Studies show that alcoholism is on the rise. According to the CDC, excessive alcohol use is the leading preventable cause of death in the US. There has even been a rise in deaths and hospitalizations associated with alcoholism.

Alcoholism is an addiction to the consumption of alcoholic liquid or mental illness and compulsive behavior resulting from alcohol dependency. If you are concerned that someone is plagued by alcoholism you should keep an eye out for these warning signs of alcoholism.

Cravings to Drink

An urge to drink refers to a broad range of sensations that drive you to order a drink. Alcohol and drugs flood the brain with dopamine. Even after you finish your final drink, these neurotransmitters will continue flooding your body.

If you are battling addiction it’s hard to distinguish between wanting and needing another drink. This can be the difference between enjoying a nice glass of wine and alcoholism.

Drastic Increases in Tolerance

After chronic alcohol consumption, the drinker will develop a tolerance to some of alcohol’s effects. After consuming a large and consistent amount of alcohol, the body experiences lesser effects. This means to achieve the same “buzz” you would need to consume more than you did formerly.

Drinking to De-Stress

Drinking alcohol is known to relieve the body during times of high stress. This reduction is called stress-response dampening. Although this phenomenon is fine in small doses, relying on a drink to de-stress can be toxic.

Neglecting Responsibilities

Exposure to alcohol impairs an individual’s cognitive and physical capabilities. As a result of the fatigue and mental fog associated with long-term exposure to alcohol, leaves many alcoholics to neglect their responsibilities.

As a bystander to someone’s drinking, this is potentially one of the easiest signs to detect. Drawing attention to the neglect of responsibilities is often a great way to bring someone to terms with their condition.

Participating in Dangerous Activities While Drinking

Another lingering effect of alcohol abuse is impaired judgment and coordination. That is why alcoholics are more inclined to get behind the wheel or get involved in a fight.

Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms

If you drink heavily for a long time, you may experience withdrawal when you spend a few too many hours away from the bar. If you suffer from alcohol abuse, your body has developed a dependency on alcohol and will react poorly if withheld it. If you need to find alcoholism treatment, you should find a rehabilitation facility nearby.

Rehab facilities like soberlifesd.com help patients cope with the effects of withdrawal. Some symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include mood swings, irritability, nausea, fatigue, and restlessness. When individuals experience these symptoms they are likely to grab another drink just to curb the side effects.

Know the Warning Signs of Alcoholism

Alcoholism takes the lives of hundreds of Americans every year, making it a top concern amongst Americans. Knowing the warning signs of alcoholism can help prepare proactively to find help for yourself and others. If you or a loved one suffers from alcohol, you need to find them a path towards sobriety.

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