It is characterized by the compulsive consumption of alcohol despite its negative consequences on one’s life, health, and relationships. Alcoholism can lead to physical and psychological dependence, as well as a host of other health problems.
Alcohol abuse is the third-leading cause of preventable death in the United States, behind tobacco and poor diet, and lack of physical activity. Despite alcohol being perfectly legal, it poses a significant risk to public health due to its potential for abuse. In small quantities, it acts as a social lubricant, causing minor inebriation, loss of inhibition, mild euphoria, and impaired cognition. However, for a percentage of the population, alcohol can be deadly.
Some early signs of alcoholism
- 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
Call one of our admissions specialists to get started on your path to recovery today.
Steps to take before the addiction takes hold
Many 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 controlling 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.
The stages of alcoholism
- The early stage: This stage typically involves social drinking, experimentation, and occasional binge-drinking. The person may not experience any significant negative consequences of this stage.
- 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.
- The last 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 difficulties such as liver damage, and their relationships and work may be severely impacted.
- 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, seizures, and other life-threatening complications.
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 iver 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
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
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
They have a team of experienced professionals who specialize in treating addiction and providing personalized care to each patient.
Therapies offered 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.
Why to choose Spark to Recovery?
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 considering 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.
