What are the Signs of a Drinking Problem?

If you are having difficulty controlling your drinking, you may be wondering what are the signs of a drinking problem? Having problems quitting drinking on your own is a sign that you may have a drinking problem. However, it isn’t the only indication you may struggle with alcohol addiction. To better understanding what are the signs of a drinking problem, it is important to know how drinking impacts your body, mind, and spirit.

Alcohol improves your mood and is a central nervous system depressant. It slows down your vital signs and creates feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Unfortunately, the good feelings induced by alcohol can lead to dependence and addiction. Alcohol is commonly present at social events because it decreases inhabitations and helps improve sociability. Overall, alcohol is one of the most used recreational substances worldwide, with nearly 33% of adults consuming alcohol on a regular basis.

What are the Signs of a Drinking Problem

So, what are the signs of a drinking problem and what are the signs of alcoholism? The most obvious sign of a drinking problem is that you experience difficulty controlling or quitting drinking alcohol. You also may find it difficult to socialize without alcohol. At worst, you may be more concerned with drinking than interacting with people at social functions.

Several other signs of a drinking problem include:

• An increase intolerance
• Having to drink more in order to feel the same euphoric effects
• Regular hangovers
• Missing work or school to drink or due to hangovers
• Drinking alone
• Legal problems related to drinking, such as DUI or public drunkenness charges
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you don’t drink

Other signs of having alcoholism or a drinking problem include having friends or loved ones complain about your drinking or asking you to control your drinking.

Treating Alcoholism

If you are dealing with a drinking problem or alcoholism, the most important first step is to undergo a medically supervised detox. Detoxing from alcohol can cause delirium tremors, which can cause fatal seizures and severe hallucinations and confusion. Medical detox centers use medications such as benzodiazepines to combat withdrawal symptoms and prevent delirium tremors.

After withdrawing from alcohol, you can choose several different treatment programs, including:

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment provides intensive, personalized services and 24/7 medical supervision. It typically lasts several weeks and involves detoxification, behavioral therapy, medication-assisted treatment, educational programs, group support, and activities to help individuals heal on physical and mental levels.

Partial Hospitalization Programs

Partial hospitalization programs (PHP) are intensive outpatient treatment programs that provide highly structured, comprehensive services for individuals with addiction. They require a minimum of eight hours per day of programming. They typically involve individual counseling, group therapy, medication management, educational classes, and activities.

Intensive Outpatient Programs

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) are designed for individuals who need more structure and support than traditional outpatient treatment but don’t require the level of care provided by inpatient or partial hospitalization programs.

Sober Living Facilities

Sober living facilities are residential settings designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for people in recovery from substance abuse. These facilities help individuals transition back into the real world. This allows them to practice newly acquired skills and strategies without being exposed to substances or triggers that could lead to relapse.

Peer-Led Support and Recovery Groups

Peer-led support and recovery groups provide a safe space for individuals in recovery to share their experiences, offer encouragement, and find fellowship with people who understand what they are going through.

Finding the Best Treatment Center

Have you wondered what are the signs of a drinking problem? Do you believe that you need help to stop drinking, finding the right treatment center is an important first step on your journey towards recovery. Beaches Recovery, the best alcohol addiction treatment Jacksonville FL offers, specializes in providing patients and their families with the support, compassion, and guidance needed to successfully recover from alcoholism. Call us today at 866.605.0532 for more information about how our addiction programs and services can help you or a loved one achieve recovery.