Statistics show that six individuals will perish as a result of alcoholism each day. In other words, it’s the third-leading cause of death in the U.S.
There’s no cure for addiction and simply telling a person to stop doesn’t work. Fortunately, however, there are effective ways to treat addiction.
Alcohol has become synonymous with American culture and life in many ways. How can we know when we’ve crossed the line from social indulgence to an addiction?
Read on to learn the five early warning signs of alcoholism to watch out for.
Table of Contents
1. Changing Priorities
One of the first things that happen when a person develops an addiction is a shift in priorities. Instead of prioritizing work or family, the person begins favoring alcohol.
As the addiction develops, even the body begins to put a priority on getting alcohol. That’s when the cravings begin.
Many alcoholics report feeling that they’d do anything to reduce the painful cravings. If you need additional help, don’t despair, just look into home-detox.co.uk and get yourself the help that you require.
2. Social Isolation
One of the biggest early signs of alcoholism is social isolation. Why do those suffering from addictions isolate themselves? Here are a few reasons sociologists believe they withdrawal from others:
- The addiction becomes their main priority
- To avoid conflict
- To reduce feelings of shame
If you find yourself starting to become isolated, then reach out to friends. Research some great get-together ideas with friends and try them out!
3. Alcohol Tolerance
How do you know you are an alcoholic?
When you start developing a high tolerance for alcohol, you’re becoming addicted. You may feel the need to drink more and more to get the same level of intoxication as before.
High-functioning alcoholics can down several drinks before even getting a buzz.
4. Memory Lapses: Dangerous Signs of Alcoholism
One of alcohol’s side-effects is short-term memory loss. Too much alcohol can cause a blackout, which means you won’t have any memory of what occurred while drunk.
Over time, chronic alcohol use damages the long-term memory. It’s so noticeable that the brain structure responsible for memory actually shrinks!
Are you experiencing memory lapses due to alcohol? Reach out to nearby rehabilitation centres for alcohol for helpful information.
5. Physical and Emotional Withdrawal Symptoms
How do you know if you’re an alcoholic?
One of the first warning signs will be experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Here’s what to expect if you’ve developed an addiction:
- Headaches
- Shaky hands
- Vomiting and nausea
- Insomnia
- Increased anxiety and agitation
- Feeling like you have a hangover despite not drinking
- High blood pressure
- Hallucinations
For many, alcohol is a coping mechanism that helps act as a stress reliever. This fact coupled with the withdrawal symptoms makes quitting even harder.
It’s important to consider and plan out better ways to handle your stress when trying to cut out alcohol.
Take Heed of These Warning Signs
These five signs of alcoholism shouldn’t get taken lightly. Take heed of these warning signs. Encourage your loved ones to reach out for help when they’re exhibiting these early signs.
Recovery is possible and within reach.
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