For many people, drinking alcohol is a casual activity. We drink to celebrate special occasions, to relax after a long day, or as part of a delicious meal. But for some people, drinking alcohol can become a lot more than just an occasional indulgence. It can turn into a physical and psychological dependence that can be difficult to break free from. So, how do you know if your drinking has become a problem?
Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder
Have you found yourself wondering, “I drink every night, am I an alcoholic”? Or “How much do you have to drink to be considered an alcoholic”? If you’re asking these questions, that may be a sign that you have a problem with alcohol.
There are varying levels of problems with alcohol, from alcohol abuse to Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). AUD is characterized by compulsive drinking, a lack of control over alcohol use, and negative emotions when you’re not drinking. AUD can be mild, moderate, or severe. In any case, determining that you’re struggling with alcohol is the first step to getting the treatment and support you need.
Several warning signs can indicate whether you have an unhealthy pattern of drinking.
1. You drink more than you intend to.
2. You miss work or school because of drinking.
3. You drink in situations that are potentially dangerous, such as driving, risky sex, fighting, or swimming.
4. Your relationships are suffering because of your drinking.
5. You’ve tried to quit drinking but were unsuccessful.
6. You need to drink more and more alcohol to get buzzed.
7. You experience withdrawal symptoms when you try to cut back on drinking, such as shaking, sweating, vomiting, anxiety, depression, guilt, hallucinations, or loneliness.
8. You’ve neglected other important aspects of your life in favor of drinking, such as your health, hobbies, or responsibilities.
9. You continue to drink even though it’s causing problems in your life.
10. You can’t remember what happened the night before because you were drunk.
11. You’ve been told by others that you have a drinking problem and refused to listen to them.
12. You spend a lot of time drinking or dealing with hangovers.
13. You face legal issues or problems at work because of alcohol.
Alcohol Treatment in Mississippi
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, in 2019, 85% of people reported that they consumed alcohol at some point in their lives. Almost 15 million Americans over the age of 12 had Alcohol Use Disorder and over 400,000 of those were youths ages 12-17. Yet out of all the Americans with AUD, only 10% received any treatment for alcoholism. You don’t have to join that 10%! If you’re worried that your drinking has become a problem, there are many alcohol treatment resources out there.
The first step is recognizing there’s a problem, so if you have noticed any of the signs listed above in yourself or someone you care about, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Alcoholism is a serious problem but you can overcome it with treatment and support. One of those important resources right here in Mississippi is the SBIRT screening tool. Simply answer some quick, online questions and you’ll be provided with a list of qualified, certified alcohol treatment facilities in Mississippi, all within a short drive of your home. Now is the time to take back control and move toward a healthy, happy life without alcohol. Click now to start the SBIRT App.
