Alcoholism is more than just the wino in the park with a brown paper bag. Alcoholism is the CEO who sneaks drinks at lunch. Alcoholism is the overwhelmed mother who uses a bottle of wine to relax at night. There is no singular example of an alcoholic. It is a cunning, baffling, and powerful disease that affects millions of people across all sociocultural and economic lines. If you have a loved one who drinks it may be difficult to know where having a good time ends and a drinking problem begins. That’s why we wrote this blog with the intention of providing crucial info on how to know when there’s an addiction and what to do about it. Let’s dive in!
What is Alcoholism?
Medically known as alcohol use disorder (AUD), alcoholism is a chronic disease characterized by an inability to control or stop drinking despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. It is a progressive condition that can severely impact an individual's physical and mental well-being.
Symptoms of Alcoholism
Symptoms of alcohol addiction can vary from person to person but generally fall into the following categories:
Physical Symptoms
- Increased Tolerance: Needing more alcohol to achieve the same effects.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing nausea, sweating, tremors, and anxiety when not drinking. For more advanced alcoholism, symptoms may also include seizures and hallucinations.
- Frequent Intoxication: Regularly drinking to the point of intoxication.
- Neglect of Personal Hygiene: Poor grooming habits and appearance.
Behavioral Symptoms
- Secretive Drinking: Hiding alcohol from others.
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Failing to fulfill work, school, or home obligations
- Loss of Interest: Abandoning hobbies and activities that one used to enjoy.
- Risky Behavior: Engaging in dangerous activities, such as drunk driving.
Psychological Symptoms
- Cravings: A compulsive obsession to drink and/or be drunk.
- Memory Lapses: Blackouts or memory loss related to drinking episodes.
- Irritability: Increased agitation and mood swings.
- Depression & Anxiety: Co-occurring mental health issues exacerbated by alcohol use.
What You Need to Know About Alcoholism
The Nature of Addiction
Alcoholism is a multifaceted disease that is influenced by genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Understanding that addiction is not a moral failing but a medical condition is imperative to the successful rehabilitation of an alcoholic.
Health Risks
Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to severe health problems, including liver disease, cardiovascular issues, neurological damage, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety are also common among individuals with AUD.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes. Encouraging your loved one to seek help at the first signs of addiction can prevent further physical, psychological, and social damage. Alcoholism is a progressive disease and will only ever get worse with time.
How to Help a Loved One Struggling with Alcoholism
Educate Yourself
Understanding alcoholism, its origin, and its effects can equip you with the knowledge to offer meaningful support. Resources like the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) and Alcoholics Anonymous can be helpful.
Open Communication
Approach your loved one with compassion and understanding. Avoid judgmental language and express your concerns about their well-being. Let them know you are there because you care and want to help them not to judge or cast blame.
Encourage Professional Help
Suggest professional treatment options such as those offered at Sunflower Recovery Center. Our comprehensive programs include counseling, therapy, and aftercare planning tailored to each individual's needs.
Support Recovery Efforts
Be a supportive presence during your loved ones treatment process. This can include attending family therapy sessions, participating in support groups like Al-Anon, and encouraging healthy lifestyle changes.
Take Care of Yourself
Supporting someone with alcoholism can be emotionally taxing. Seek out your own support systems and maintain your well-being through self-care practices and support groups for families of those with addiction.
Sunflower Recovery Center: Your Partner in Healing
At Sunflower Recovery Center, we offer compassionate and evidence-based treatment for alcoholism. Our team of experienced clinicians is committed to helping individuals and families reclaim their lives from alcohol addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling with alcoholism, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Together, we can pave the way toward a healthier, happier future.