How to Tell if you May be an Alcoholic

If you are worried about your alcohol intake, it is important that you know the difference between abusing alcohol and being an alcoholic. An addiction is a physiological and mental response to a substance, and even if you drink a lot, it doesn’t mean you are an alcoholic (although if it is affecting your health or your life, then it is still a problem you should address).

Many people binge drink every weekend and possibly end up feeling great regret for the consequences. They may also suffer long term damage as a direct result of their alcohol intake. However, the fact is that alcoholics are physically and mentally addicted to alcohol, unlike most binge drinkers. If you are an alcoholic, it is the first thing you think about when you wake up in the morning. Going without alcohol may cause you to experience withdrawal symptoms and you will certainly feel irritable and/or unhappy without it.

If you feel your life is suffering as a result of your alcohol intake, you could be an alcoholic. It may feel out of control, and you may feel you are losing your relationship with your friends and loved ones. Alcoholism can cause marriages to break up and families to break down. If the people around you are affected by your drinking, you are likely to have a problem.

There are a number of habits you may have additionally that suggest you could be an alcoholic. Drinking alone is a major warning sign, especially if it is a frequent thing. You may also feel you drink simply to get through the day, and your diet may suffer as a consequence; poor eating habits are common amongst alcoholics. Another common sign is drinking in secret. You may feel the need to drink, even if those around you are trying to make sure you abstain.

If, after reading this, you’re surer than ever that alcoholism is a problem you suffer from, there is no need to panic. Realizing you have a problem is your first step on that road to recovery.