Recognizing the difference between non-harmful alcohol consumption and alcohol addiction can be difficult.
However, certain physical and behavioral traits may indicate that alcohol adversely affects someone’s health.
For others, it may mean drinking a few drinks every night for extended periods.
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They often spend time and money trying to obtain alcohol and continue to drink despite experiencing adverse health effects.
There is usually a transition that occurs at some point from choosing to drink alcohol to drinking compulsively.
They will likely experience deteriorating relationships with family and friends and might have difficulty at work.
Those with alcohol use disorder will continue to drink despite increased isolation and separation from loved ones.
People with alcohol use disorder might reduce their participation in social events and become withdrawn over time.
Reasons for Drinking
People consume alcohol for various reasons.
Some people might use it to cope with a difficult situation, such as a mental or medical illness.
For others, drinking alcohol is learned from family culture or is genetic.
Alcohol dependence can also develop from low self-esteem or a desire to be socially accepted.
Symptoms: How Does Alcohol Make You Feel?
Alcohol is often associated with euphoria, leading people to drink recreationally.
However, heavy alcohol consumption can significantly impact a person’s health and safety.
These are serious illnesses that can lead to disability or death.
Research also shows a connection between heavy alcohol use and heart disease, respiratory disease, and cancer.
This means family and friends can play a significant role in helping people dive into the treatment they need.
They can refer you to a mental health professional or help you develop a plan to begin treatment.
Seeking mental health and medical advice offers a holistic approach to reducing or eliminating alcohol use.
A medical professional can also prescribe you medications to help reduce your alcohol consumption.
Find a Support Group
There are many group support options for those with alcohol use disorder.
Attending a group can provide community and accountability and offer resources, tools, and coping techniques.
Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences.
2014;43(3):906-919. doi:10.1093/ije/dyu018
