Are You An Alcoholic? 5 Signs Your Drinking Is Problematic
Are you waking up with a hangover more days than not? Have you broken a promise to yourself about how much you would use this week? Have your absences at work increased? Are your relationships strained? All of these are classic signs of spiraling addiction. Addiction fundamentally changes the chemistry of the brain, interfering with basic functioning. This disruption to brain activity starts a chain reaction of negative consequences for the user.
If you’re wondering "Am I an addict?", but aren't quite sure try taking this short quiz to find out whether you may be struggling with addiction.
The alarm bells for alcoholism and substance use disorder are physical, behavioral, and psychological. If you're concerned about your alcohol intake but aren't sure if it's become problematic, time is of the essence! Here are five signs to look out for.
You're Not Acting Like Yourself
Loss of interest in relationships, responsibilities, and recreational hobbies often reveals hidden addiction. Not only do alcoholics neglect their duties, but their interactions are accompanied by increased agitation, irritability, and aggression. If both your substance use and apathy towards daily life are increasing, you have the beginning of a severe problem.
You're Health is Taking A Nosedive
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) takes a massive toll on physical health. Addicts suddenly find themselves with constantly runny noses, bloodshot eyes, and crumbling oral hygiene. Waking up to unexplained injuries or experiencing abrupt weight changes are not uncommon. If this is ringing any bells, you have grounds to be concerned.
Your Anxiety is Out of Control
The life of an addict is one of constant fear. If you notice that you're experiencing extended periods of anxiety, terror, and paranoia, then it's time to reach out for help. Heightened negative feelings lead to increased substance use and poor decision-making. Nobody deserves to suffer alone, and addiction will destroy your relationships, finances, and future, without exception.
You Ask Friends or Family for Money
If you've noticed that your debts are getting higher and your IOUs are running out, then you likely have a problem with substance use. Addicts usually start with small amounts, playing on their family and friends' trust and goodwill for them. As their requirements increase, so does the number of demands and the aggression around hearing "No." Their relationships crumble as their loved ones no longer trust them, and they may resort to darker means to get the money they need.
You Have Sworn You'll Quit Countless Times
Another binge, another blackout, another "incident." You swear that this is it. You've turned over a new leaf and have seen the light. Monday is here again, and you swear to yourself that next weekend, you’re staying in. It may last until you've cleaned up the latest mess or have forgotten just how bad it was. Yet inevitably, you succumb to the internal voice that tells you that just one drink or using just a little bit isn't a big deal. You don't have a problem. We're here to tell you if this sounds like you - it's definitely a problem.
Recovery is possible, and everybody deserves to be happy and free from addiction - not just yourself, but the people who you are harming around you.
If you're concerned about your alcohol intake, get in touch for a commitment-free, confidential consultation today. You're worth it.
For further information about alcoholism or substance use, check out our blog or one of our guides today.
