Warning Signs of Alcoholism
The warning signs of alcoholism are oftentimes missed because alcoholism can be masked as social drinking or be done in secrecy to prevent being detected. Mild alcohol abuse is often confused with casual drinking. However, there are a few warning signs that can make it easier to tell the difference between alcoholism and social drinking.
Alcoholism is defined as a chronic disease in which someone uncontrollably drinks alcohol, has a preoccupation with drinking, and continues to drink even after experiencing negative consequences from it. Alcohol use disorders can be different in each person, but there are some common symptoms and signs.
Warnings Signs of Alcoholism
There are many warning signs to help determine if someone is suffering from an alcohol use disorder. Many of the signs are recognizable, but others may be more difficult to notice. Also, the severity of alcohol abuse may play a role in the warning signs a person exhibits. Mild alcohol abuse can be easily mistaken for social or casual drinking. However, what may appear as a casual practice, can quickly turn dangerous and be early signs of alcoholism.
Some of the most common signs of alcohol abuse are:
- Changing appearance or mood
- Changing friend groups
- Heavy drinking
- Becoming isolated from social interactions
- Experiencing temporary blackouts or short-term memory loss
- Putting drinking first, over other responsibilities
- Secret drinking, or drinking alone often.
Recognizing the Signs of Alcoholism
A quick way to determine if someone is suffering from an alcohol use disorder is to use the CAGE questions.
The four CAGE screening questions are:
- Have you ever felt you should cut down on your drinking?
- Have people annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?
- Have you ever felt shame or guilt about your drinking?
- Have you ever felt you needed a drink first thing in the morning (Eye-opener) to steady your nerves or to get rid of a hangover?
If the answer is yes to two or more of the questions, there is reason to believe that person would benefit from addiction treatment.
The Dangers Of Alcoholism
Alcoholism has many dangers, not just physically but mentally and emotionally as well.
Drinking excessive alcohol has immediate, short-term effects that can increase personal risks:
- Medical emergencies such as alcohol poisoning happen when blood alcohol levels are higher than a physical body can handle.
- Increased violence
- Legal troubles
- Injuries from drinking and driving, falling, or even burns.
- Lower inhibitions can lead to risky sexual behaviors that can leave long-lasting effects such as sexually transmitted infections.
Drinking excessive alcohol has immediate, short-term effects that can increase personal risks:
- Social changes and issues with family members, or job-related problems
- Immune system depletion which increases the risk of getting sick
- Health risks like high blood pressure, heart disease, digestive problems, liver disease, or even stroke
- Mental health issues include but are not limited to depression, and anxiety
- Cancers such as breast, mouth, throat, esophagus, voice box, liver, colon, or rectum
- Learning and memory issues
Wellness starts with Agape
Give us a call today. Our admissions coordinators will answer any questions you may have about our program and walk you through the admissions process.
Who is at Risk for Alcohol Use Disorder?
There are several risk factors for increasing the probability of someone becoming addicted to a substance, such as alcohol.
Some of the Most Prevalent Risk Factors Are:
- History of trauma
- Mental health conditions
- Genetics and family history of addiction
- Start drinking at an early age
If someone has any of these risk factors, being careful of their alcohol use is important. They are at the highest risk of becoming addicted.
Warning Signs of Alcoholism
There are many signs that could be a warning someone is suffering from an alcohol use disorder. Because AUD is a very personal disease, the signs will be different for everyone, but there are a few commonalities to look for.
How to get Help for Alcoholism
If you feel that you or a loved one is suffering from an alcohol use disorder after reading and answering the CAGE questions, getting help right away is an important step in becoming healthy. Calling Agape Detox Center is a great start in getting help for alcoholism. Our trained admissions coordinators can assist in creating a personalized plan to get treatment started.
- November 25, 2022
- Updated Date: December 13, 2023
Related services
Have any questions?
Stephanie Catalano is an accomplished Clinical Director at Agape Behavioral Healthcare. With a Master of Social Work degree, LCSW license, and extensive training in Rapid Resolution Therapy under her belt, she brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Her unique combination of education and experience allows her to provide exceptional care to clients and lead her team with confidence. Stephanie’s joy comes from witnessing the moments when her patients creatively connect the dots and bravely move toward reclaiming their power. Her purpose is to help individuals understand their past so they can create a future full of hope, growth, and success. Stephanie attributes a large portion of her success to the supportive culture and strong sense of community fostered by the Agape team.
