There are so many classifications of drinkers out there—social drinker, binge drinker, heavy drinker, problem drinker. Those classifications have their place, but many people just want to know one thing: Am I an alcoholic?
Drinking alone can be a bad sign. So can experiencing blackouts. Having eight drinks on a Saturday night is definitely not the best thing for your health. But, while these can all be signs of alcohol abuse, they do not prove that someone is physically and psychologically addicted to alcohol.
What Makes a Person an Alcoholic?
Some people describe it as feeling that they have crossed a line and are unable to live without alcohol. Others are confronted by friends or family who are concerned for them. But one of the best ways to know if you’re dependent on alcohol is to be honest with yourself and look for these three signs.
- You cannot quit drinking or control how much you drink. Moderate drinkers can do this. Even problem drinkers can do this. Alcoholics cannot.
- You have to drink more to get the same effect. And that leads to more damage to both your physical and mental health.
- You crave alcohol and suffer withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking. Symptoms can range from mild anxiety to delirium tremens (also called DTs) that involve confusion, rapid heartbeat, fever and, in severe cases, even death. (Many people don’t know that alcohol is one of the more dangerous drugs to detox from without help.)
If those signs describe you, you might be telling yourself that it really is time to buckle down and cut back. But, here’s the thing, if you had diabetes or asthma, would you try to treat yourself? Or course not. What you would do is find someone qualified to help you. Alcoholism is a disease that must be treated.
The Next Step
If you show signs of being an alcoholic, you have two choices. Do nothing and let things get worse (because, sadly, they probably will). Or recognize that this could be the bravest, best moment of your life. The moment you decide to pursue freedom, happiness and peace. A residential alcohol treatment center like The Raleigh House can help you get there. Fill out our form or call us today for more information.
