Alcohol Addiction | Signs, Symptoms and Effects

Am I addicted to alcohol?

Everyone’s relationship with alcohol is different – for most, the term ‘alcohol addiction’ brings to mind images of drinking five bottles of wine each day and passing out on the kitchen floor. While this could be true for some, alcohol addiction takes many forms:

As you can see, you do not need to be drinking every day to suffer from alcoholism. An addiction to alcohol is defined by the inability to control or stop your urges despite knowing the negative consequences it is having. You are also likely to need more and more alcohol to achieve the same effects, experience intense cravings and suffer from withdrawal symptoms if you try to quit.

Who is at risk of alcohol addiction?

Genetics play a strong role in the likelihood of developing an addiction to alcohol with research showing that alcoholism is a complex genetic condition. You are therefore more likely to develop problems with alcohol if you have immediate family who also suffer. Not only this, but it is possible that the behaviour is learned from a young age, and so environmental factors do also come into play.

Those who have suffered past trauma or mental health issues are also at risk of developing an addiction to alcohol. These individuals may drink alcohol as a way to soothe or repress negative emotions, as a way to forget their past or to try and quench the symptoms of a mental health disorder.
Even personality traits can impact the amount you drink – for example, those who are shy may drink to boost their confidence in social situations.

While these factors may influence the likelihood of alcoholism developing, the truth is that anyone can be impacted by alcohol addiction, no matter their age, gender or background.

The negative impact of alcohol addiction

Alcohol addiction can have devastating physical and mental health consequences, both in the short and long-term. Regular excessive drinking can lead to diseases ranging from liver cirrhosis to cancer, stroke or heart disease. The potential cognitive and psychological effects are no less alarming.

The signs of an alcohol addiction

Drinking alcohol is a widely accepted form of celebrating, socialising and relaxing, so it can be incredibly tough to spot an alcohol addiction developing. If you suspect a loved one is straying down this path, it is important to be aware of any signs that may point to a problem.

Approaching a loved one about alcohol addiction

Now you know the signs of alcohol addiction, how do you approach a loved one about this issue? It is very important to approach your family member when they are sober, using care and sensitivity. It is best to be clear and upfront when speaking with them, however, make sure to do so in a non-judgemental and compassionate way.

Try not to pressure your loved one into talking or getting help; they need time to process and come around to the idea of seeking help themselves. It’s important not to label or blame them for their struggles – instead offer your support and let them know that you are there for them unconditionally.

Remember that individuals suffering from alcohol addiction are in a vulnerable state, so approaching the conversation with kindness and patience is the most effective approach.

Is there treatment available for alcohol addiction?

Alcohol addiction is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Finding the right treatment can mean the difference between long-term sobriety and relapse. While there are many different treatment types, inpatient rehabilitation is often considered one of the best ways to address alcohol addiction.

Inpatient rehab focuses on providing an intensive, structured approach to recovery that combines evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioural therapy and group therapy. During these programmes, you are removed from the environment that previously supported or enabled your drinking habits.

Recovery Lighthouse can change your attitude towards alcohol, provide accountability, aid in relapse prevention techniques, and build social skills needed for continuing recovery after completion of the programme.