Though alcohol is legal and considered relatively harmless in moderation, there are dangers associated with consuming too much alcohol. The culture surrounding alcohol consumption promotes excess, and this can make it hard to determine the line between having a good time and the beginning of alcohol dependence.
Alcohol includes wine, beer, and hard liquor. The substance slows down mental and body processes, which may cause people to say or do things they normally wouldn’t while sober. For those who regularly engage in alcohol consumption or overindulge when they do drink, this can lead to problems within their social dynamics. We’ve created an alcohol self-assessment to help individuals determine if they have a problem with alcohol abuse.
What is Alcohol Abuse?
Alcohol consumption, when undergone too frequently or to the point where an individual lacks control, can cause distress or harm to the individual or their loved ones. In these situations, an individual is classified as having an alcohol use disorder.
However, not all alcohol abuse is severe enough to constitute an alcohol use disorder. Alcohol abuse includes any type of drinking that results in a negative outcome. The abuse of alcohol is a pattern of drinking that results in harm to one’s health, interpersonal relationships, or ability to work.
Alcohol, like other substances, has a powerful effect on the brain, producing pleasurable feelings and relieving negative thoughts. This effect can motivate individuals to keep drinking despite possible risks to their health and well-being.
As individuals continue the pattern of alcohol misuse, their brain changes structure and function. These changes can cause a transition from controlled, occasional use to chronic misuse of alcohol as the individual develops a dependency on the effects produced through alcohol consumption.
Recognizing the Signs
There are ways to determine if an individual has developed an alcohol addiction, where they have progressed past casual consumption and now crave the substance to feel “normal.” If you drink alcohol to cope with problems or avoid negative feelings, this can be a warning that you are developing alcohol dependence.
By understanding the signs of alcohol dependence, it becomes easier to help you or a loved one receive treatment before the problem spreads further. Signs of alcohol addiction, according to the DSM-5, include:
- Alcohol is consumed more frequently or in more significant amounts than intended
- An individual desires to cut down or quit alcohol use with unsuccessful attempts to do so
- Lots of time is spent obtaining, using, or recovering from alcohol
- Cravings, or the strong desire to use alcohol, are present
- Consistent alcohol use causes failure to complete obligations at work, school, or home
- Continued use occurs despite social or interpersonal problems due to alcohol use
- Important activities or events are given up due to alcohol use
- Alcohol use occurs even in situations where it poses a physical threat to health
- Alcohol use is continued despite persistent physical or psychological problems
- An individual develops a tolerance for alcohol, needing more to achieve the same effects
- When alcohol is not consumed, an individual goes through withdrawal
The display of at least 2 of these symptoms within 12 months determines if an individual is classified with alcohol use disorder, and the prevalence of additional symptoms shows whether the disorder falls into the category of mild (2 to 3 symptoms), moderate (4 to 5) or severe (6 or more).
Risk Factors for Alcohol Addiction
An individual’s risk for developing alcohol use disorder partly depends on how much, how often, and how quickly they consume alcohol. Other factors can also play a role in the likelihood of alcohol abuse and addiction.
Drinking at an early age can increase an individual’s risk of alcohol addiction, as studies show that those who began drinking during their early teens were more likely to develop a problem with alcohol later in life.
In addition, genetics and family history of alcohol issues play a role, with individuals more prone to alcoholism if it runs in their family or they witnessed a pattern of problem drinking in their childhood. Mental health conditions and a history of trauma can also contribute to an increased risk of alcohol addiction.
Adverse Effects of Alcohol Abuse
As previously mentioned, alcohol misuse can have a negative toll on an individual’s emotional and mental well-being. There are also physical effects that can occur due to excessive alcohol consumption.
Heavy drinking can cause permanent damage to the body by increasing the risk of cancer, heart problems, stroke, dementia, and liver failure. Alcohol use can also contribute to unintentional injuries, such as motor vehicle accidents and falls.
Other issues that can be caused by alcohol abuse include tremors, profuse sweating, extreme agitation or anxiety, persistent insomnia, seizures, nausea or vomiting, and hallucinations. Those with alcohol addiction shouldn’t attempt to quit drinking on their own, as they may experience life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.
Admitting You Have a Problem
Overcoming denial is a common obstacle for those who need help with alcohol abuse. Many times, an individual doesn’t see their drinking as a problem, or they believe they can cut back on their own. If you find yourself rationalizing, lying, or defending your drinking habits, take a step back and reflect on this behavior.
If there is no issue with your drinking, then you wouldn’t feel the need to defend yourself or deny the extent of your alcohol consumption. Once you’ve re-examined your relationship with alcohol, you may decide that it is time to seek treatment.
Help is Available
At The Summit Wellness Group, we’re here to help patients overcome substance abuse and co-occurring disorders. If you’re struggling with alcohol addiction or other issues, you don’t have to go through it alone.
Fight back with innovative treatment options that prioritize your well-being. To get started on your recovery, call our 24/7 helpline at 770-637-0579 or fill out our contact form.
Alcoholism Test for You or a Loved One
It can be hard to tell if your drinking has crossed the threshold where it is considered a problem, especially since denial of alcohol abuse is so common. By understanding whether you have an issue with alcohol, you can then determine whether you need to seek help.
We’ve provided a quiz to help detect if you or a loved one are currently addicted to alcohol or at risk of developing an addiction. Our alcohol self-assessment is anonymous, so answer honestly to receive the most accurate information to assist you in figuring out your next steps.
To the best of your ability, answer the following questions with YES or NO.
Understanding Your Score
If you answer yes to:
7 or fewer: You or your loved one are considered social drinkers and are more likely to save alcohol for special occasions and celebrations. You or your loved one drink responsibly and are aware of personal limits. You may still desire to scale back your drinking, in which case therapy and support groups can help.
8-14: You or your loved one’s drinking habits could be the beginning of long-term alcohol issues. This may be just a rough period in life, or it may be a sign that you or your loved one are heading down the path of addiction. Consider seeking professional help if the problem worsens.
15 or more: Your or your loved one’s life is being negatively impacted by alcohol consumption. There is a pattern of risky behavior and excessive drinking, which causes issues with work and social dynamics. A structured treatment program is likely the most beneficial course of action.
