Alcohol plays a small role in some people’s lives and a much larger one in others. How problematic alcohol use becomes depends on many factors. When drinking starts to cause serious consequences, the question becomes, when is someone considered an alcoholic? There are several ways to think about the answer to this question. To better recognize the many facets of alcohol addiction, there are a few important signs to look out for.
At BRC Healthcare, we know it can be difficult watching someone you love fall into the cycle of alcohol addiction. Our team of experts has years of experience helping people navigate away from addiction toward a better future. Our Austin, TX alcohol rehab centers offer safety and hope for a healthier tomorrow. Learn more about our evidence-based programs by calling 888.559.2036 today.
Signs of an Alcohol Addiction
When someone struggles to stop drinking, it can have significant impacts on every aspect of their health, personal life, and job. Below are a few telltale signs you or your loved one might be struggling with alcohol addiction.
Wanting to Stop but Not Being Able to
A hallmark of alcohol addiction is the desire to stop drinking and the inability to do so. If you’re concerned about your alcohol consumption, set a period in which you don’t want to drink. If you can’t achieve that goal, then you might have, at the very least, a psychological dependence on alcohol.
Becoming Physically Dependent on Alcohol
When is someone considered an alcoholic? If they need alcohol to feel normal or to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, they are dependent on alcohol. Physical dependence is a clear indicator of addiction. If you become ill once alcohol leaves your system, then you are likely dependent. Signs of alcohol dependency include tremors, nausea, irritability, and intense cravings for alcohol.
Life Is Repeatedly Affected by Drinking
Whether you are struggling to do your job, or your relationships are being affected by drinking, you could have an addiction to alcohol. Here again, the recognition that alcohol is dramatically affecting your life, combined with an inability to stop drinking, is a major sign of alcohol addiction.
Making Plans to Accommodate Drinking
If you make plans based strictly around drinking, be mindful that this is often a sign of alcoholism. You might be reluctant to go to events or engage with others if you aren’t able to have a drink. You might avoid activities because you know that they take place during a time that you will be intoxicated. If alcohol takes up this much space in your life, it is a warning sign of an alcohol use disorder.
Drinking Alone
People often start drinking for social reasons, but as an addiction to alcohol progresses, one might start regularly drinking in solitude. Drinking alone isn’t just a sign of alcohol addiction; it can also be a sign of depression. Drinking alone could isolate you from others, increase feelings of depression and put you at risk of a serious injury.
When Is Someone Considered an Alcoholic?
If someone is questioning how alcohol is affecting their life, the chances are good that alcohol is causing unwanted consequences. It’s important to understand that alcohol affects people differently. Some might be physically dependent on it. Others might not experience withdrawals when they don’t drink, yet still have a very unhealthy relationship with alcohol that they want to address. If you want to stop drinking and you can’t know that help is always available. Some people might believe that they are incapable of quitting alcohol, but it’s important to realize that no one is beyond help.
Alcohol Addiction Treatment at BRC Healthcare
At BRC Healthcare, we help those who believe they are resistant to treatment. Everyone can find a better path if they truly want it for themselves. If you want to find out more about our services, contact BRC Healthcare at 888.559.2036 to speak to our team.