Alcohol is common in today’s society and many people use it to socialize or relax. Because it’s a legal substance, problems with its use go undetected more easily than those of illicit drugs. It’s for this reason that recognizing when your loved one has a problem with alcohol can be so difficult. Let’s try to clear things up by examining some specific signs of alcohol addiction.
About Alcohol Addiction
First, we should define what is meant by alcohol addiction. Some drinking may simply be problematic, but it can still lead to a full-blown addiction. So it’s important to be aware that many signs may overlap between problematic behaviors and addiction.
Abuse of alcohol can happen to people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. It’s more common, though, for men to suffer from this issue. Men suffer from alcohol addiction about twice as frequently as women.
Addiction symptoms can be both physical and psychological. Dependency, or needing alcohol in order to function, is physical evidence of addiction. Symptoms of psychological addiction typically refers to the ways in which an alcoholic will focus primarily on ways to get alcohol, allowing other important aspects of their life to suffer. Psychological effects can also be the worsening of other mental health disorders, such as depression.
Signs of Alcohol Addiction
In fact, wanting to quit but not being able to is one of the biggest signs of alcohol addiction. When you feel the physical and psychological needs, it can be impossible to put the drink down on your own. Physical symptoms of withdrawal might include symptoms such as:
- Tremors
- racing heart
- Anxiety
- Confusion
Building a tolerance is also a sign of problematic drinking. When you require more alcohol to feel the same effects you once did, you may have a problem. Experiencing difficulties in various parts of your life may be a sign of alcohol dependence. Social signs of alcohol addiction may include:
- Problems within your interpersonal relationships
- Neglecting your responsibilities
- Trying to hide your drinking
In addition, you may have a serious problem if you find yourself drinking just to feel better, if you blackout from drinking too much, if you can’t stop once you get started drinking, or if you find yourself drinking in situations that are dangerous. You or your loved one may not be dealing with all of these signs, but experiencing even a few is enough reason for concern.
How Memphis Recovery Can Help
Memphis Recovery Center offers a number of options to help you overcome the signs of alcohol addiction. Our addiction recovery philosophy is one of individual focus. We believe each person is unique, and we strive to provide solutions to best meet the individual needs of our clients.
Services available include:
- Adult treatment program
- Youth treatment program
- Music and art therapy
- Dual diagnosis and trauma therapy
- Aftercare
We’ll work with you every step of the way to overcome these signs of alcohol addiction. You don’t have to endure the difficult journey to recovery alone. Let our expert staff start you on a path to health and sobriety that is supportive and judgment-free. Call us at 901-272-7751 to get started on your recovery journey today.