The Signs of an Alcohol Addiction
As alcohol consumption is normalised, it can be difficult to gauge when a drinking problem can start. However, without an element of control over alcohol consumption, relaxed consumption can lead to abuse, slowly followed by alcohol addiction.
Alcohol addiction is where both a physical and mental dependence on alcohol is present. This is where the inability to live life without consuming or thinking of alcohol is experienced. This may currently deviate from your reality.
However, ongoing abuse of alcohol can cause chemical reactions in the brain, slowly forming a behavioural habit; known as cravings. The mind may also heavily rely upon alcohol to cope. Here is where many individuals will develop an alcohol use disorder by placing the spotlight on alcohol for ongoing support.
Both processes can happen unknowingly. The buzz of alcohol consumption can blur the line between those side effects. Yet, as an addiction to alcohol progresses, side effects will appear. However, sometimes this can be too late when great damage has already been experienced.
With this in mind, if you’re abusing more alcohol than usual, it’s important to ask yourself:
- Can I live through everyday life without consuming alcohol?
- Do I feel comfortable with how much alcohol I am consuming?
- Am I experiencing more withdrawal from alcohol than usual?
- Do I feel more anxious or depressed, in comparison to my normal mood?
- Have others commented on my drinking habits?
- Do I feel like I need to drink alcohol?
- Is alcohol controlling my life?
If you believe that alcohol has changed or impacted your life in any way, it is important that you consider the future damage you could experience if this habit continues. For the best potential to avoid the damages of addiction, considering help through alcohol rehab should be prioritised.
No matter the degree of connection you may be experiencing to alcohol, addiction treatment is available through rehab.