MenuClose

Rehab Blog

Attachment Large Size Large Wp Image 3138

Providing Trusted, Evidence-Based
Treatment for Three Decades and Counting

If you or a loved one is experiencing addiction, we’re here to help.

6 Warning Signs of Alcoholism

man passed out face down on kitchen table with hands covering his head displaying one of the 6 warning signs of alcoholism

Many people who struggle with alcohol use don’t think they have a problem. But most of the time, friends and loved ones around them can see the warning signs of a problem. Understanding these warning signs can help you identify and address a potential alcohol addiction before it gets out of control. At Michael’s House, we specialize in assisting individuals with their recovery. Through our treatment programs and supportive community, we help patients and their families understand the warning signs of alcoholism and learn how to overcome this harmful disorder.

We provide patients with an alcohol addiction treatment program tailored to their unique needs, including customized treatment plans, group therapy sessions, and holistic therapies like yoga and meditation. Contact us at 760.548.4032 to learn more about the warning signs of alcoholism. We can help you take your first steps toward recovery.

What Is Alcohol Addiction?

Alcohol addiction is a severe issue that can profoundly impact every aspect of a person’s life. Although it is often considered a matter of simply drinking too much alcohol, addiction is a complex condition that can cause physical, emotional, and behavioral changes. Alcohol addiction can lead to the following:

  • Liver damage
  • Problems with work or school
  • Financial difficulties
  • Relationship problems
  • Legal issues

Alcohol addiction is an incredibly harmful disorder that affects millions of people around the world. While many individuals who struggle with alcohol use may not realize they have a problem, there are often warning signs that friends and loved ones can see.

Warning Signs of Alcohol Addiction

There are warning signs of alcohol addiction that you can look out for to identify a potential problem early on. These warning signs may include the following.

1. Drinking Excessive Amounts of Alcohol

Social or moderate drinking is defined as no more than one to two drinks per day for most people, depending on body weight and gender. Social or moderate drinking can be problematic if it causes undesirable side effects. When people have five or more drinks in a day, it’s considered binge drinking. Many alcoholics eventually drink far more than this.

It’s not uncommon for individuals with advanced alcohol addiction to have a dozen drinks or more daily. However, problem drinking often begins slowly, and many drinkers need to drink increasing amounts to feel the original effects of alcohol consumption.

2. Loss of Control While Drinking

At some point, many people who struggle with alcohol addiction promise themselves or another person that they will cut back on their drinking. However, they are rarely able to keep this promise. They cannot stop drinking when they have reached a certain amount. They don’t think ahead about the consequences of drinking too much. Once they start drinking, they keep going until they are entirely intoxicated.

3. Persistent Use of Alcohol Despite Awareness of Problems

Getting a DUI or receiving divorce papers may not be enough to make an alcoholic change their life. Alcoholics are often made aware of the problems caused by their drinking. They may feel powerless to change.

Other individuals may be so caught up in their denial that they don’t understand the full impact of these consequences. Their downward spiral continues because they lose control and perspective. It may be increasingly difficult to face the problems caused by drinking, but it is possible to heal, no matter how severe the issues are.

4. Lots of Time Spent on Alcohol-Related Activities

Alcoholics spend a great deal of time engaged in alcohol-related activities. They also may neglect nearly everything else that matters to them. Family commitments, job requirements, financial obligations, hobbies, home, and property care—all of these activities go by the wayside. A person with an alcohol addiction will often defend their actions by saying they need to unwind or that no one understands their problems.

5. Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms

Alcohol withdrawal symptoms develop when a heavy drinker suddenly stops all alcohol use. Some physical symptoms include nausea, vomiting, insomnia, rapid heartbeat, sweating, headaches, and tremors. A person may also feel fatigued, symptoms of depression, difficulty concentrating, irritability, or anxiety. Anyone with severe withdrawal symptoms such as fever, blackouts, hallucinations, or convulsions should seek immediate medical help.

6. Increased Tolerance of Alcohol

After drinking excessively for some time, a person’s body develops a tolerance for alcohol. This occurs when drinkers need to consume more alcohol to feel the same effect they once felt. Many people with an alcohol addiction think they don’t have a problem because they don’t always feel drunk when drinking. They still do a lot of damage to their body despite a lack of feeling impaired or intoxicated.

Learn More About the Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction at Michael’s House

A better understanding of the symptoms of alcohol addiction can help you or a loved one recover. Our compassionate and experienced staff at Michael’s House can help you develop the tools needed to overcome addiction and maintain lifelong sobriety. Recovery can be challenging, but with the proper support and dedication, you can achieve lasting freedom from alcohol. Our alcohol addiction programs include medically supervised detox, inpatient and outpatient treatment, individualized therapy, family counseling, and more. 

Contact us today at 760.548.4032 to learn more about the warning signs of alcoholism or for information on drug and alcohol addiction treatment programs.

LIVE CHAT