Some early signs of alcoholism may include:

• Drinking alone or in secret
• Drinking to cope with stress or emotions
• Difficulty controlling the amount of alcohol consumed
• Neglecting responsibilities and relationships due to drinking
• Hiding alcohol or lying about drinking habits
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking

It is important to note that there are steps we can take before the addiction takes hold.  A lot of people in their early 20s drink excessively, but most grow out of this phase by middle age, which means it’s time for some serious self-reflection if these behaviors don’t change soon!

The most important distinction to make between addiction and enjoyment is this: If drinking doesn’t negatively impact your life in any way and you’re entirely in control of your intake, you’re probably not addicted. On the other hand, if your relationships, job, finances, or ability to meet your goals is impeded and you find yourself drinking more than you intended, or drinking when you told yourself you wouldn’t, you might need help.

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1. The early stage: This stage typically involves social drinking, experimentation, and occasional binge drinking. The person may not experience any significant negative consequences at this stage.
2. The middle stage: This stage is characterized by more frequent and excessive drinking. The person may begin to experience negative consequences such as blackouts, hangovers, and problems with relationships and work.
3. The late stage: In this stage, the person has developed a physical dependence on alcohol and experiences withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop drinking. The person may experience serious health problems such as liver damage, and their relationships and work may be severely impacted.‍
4. The end-stage: This stage is the most severe and can lead to death. The person's health is severely compromised, and they may experience delirium tremens, seizures, and other life-threatening complications.

Let’s take a look at some of the physical, psychological, and behavioral signs of alcohol addiction. This may help you if you have concerns for a loved one.

Physical Signs & Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction​

• Weight gain or weight loss unrelated to diet
• Poor personal hygiene and decreased self-care
• Injuries or illnesses as a result of drinking, e.g., falls or liver failure
• Breath that smells of alcohol
• Bins full of empty alcohol bottles or a mess of empties in the home
• Frequently seeming intoxicated, e.g., slurring, stumbling, and lack of coordination
• Drinking increasing amounts of alcohol to get the same effects
• Spending an inordinate amount of time and money getting and using alcohol
• Spending a large amount of time recovering from the effects of alcohol

Psychological Signs & Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction

• Delusions and irrational thinking, particularly during inebriation or withdrawal
• Anxiety and paranoia
• Attention, memory, and cognitive problems
• Aggression, anger, and irritability
• Being defensive and argumentative
• Neglecting responsibilities
• Mood swings

‍Behavioral Signs & Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction

• Problems at work or school
• Decreased athletic performance
• Change of social groups to incorporate drinking and partying more
• Spending less time around friends
• Withdrawing socially
• Not following through with plans
• Lying and deceiving others
• Stealing
• Getting into conflicts with people

Spark to Recovery is a leading addiction treatment center that offers evidence-based therapies to help people recover from alcoholism. They have a team of experienced professionals who specialize in treating addiction and providing personalized care to each patient.

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These are just some of the therapies offered at Spark to Recovery Center to help combat alcoholism. :

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a form of talk therapy that helps patients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that lead to alcohol abuse. CBT teaches patients coping skills to manage stress, triggers, and cravings, and how to avoid relapse.
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): DBT is a form of talk therapy that teaches patients how to regulate their emotions and manage stress. DBT helps patients develop skills to cope with difficult situations and avoid harmful behaviors like alcohol abuse.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT is a treatment approach that combines medication with therapy to help patients overcome addiction. MAT can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for patients to focus on their recovery.
• Group Therapy: Our therapists treat small groups of clients in an interactive support group. These therapeutic sessions allow all clients to share with people who can relate; their experiences during recovery, the challenges they face along the way, and how they overcome or cope with those issues. Group therapy is designed to boost our clients’ self-esteem and confidence and help them reduce stress.
• Life Skills Therapy: From managing one’s personal finances to preparing for job interviews to developing healthy diets, these life skills sessions help clients become more independent. Addiction can take its toll on a person's lifestyle and personal development to the point where they have never allowed themselves the time to learn how to live correctly and responsibly.
• And many more: Click Here for more info (link to “see all therapies” page)

Spark to Recovery is one of the best alcohol rehab centers in the LA Valley. We offer customized substance abuse treatment to help people overcome addiction and regain full control over their lives. If you or someone you love has been battling drug or alcohol abuse, we can help. Seeking addiction treatment takes courage and a huge amount of willpower. If you’re thinking about getting help you’ve already taken the biggest step toward sobriety. Call Spark to Recovery drug and alcohol rehab today to speak to a friendly addiction expert.