First Signs of Alcoholism

Alcoholism rarely arrives all at once. It constitutes a recurring pattern of behavior that builds over time, and the alcoholic himself may not be aware of it or may deny it until the impact on his life becomes inescapable. The earlier he or his loved ones can spot the signs of alcoholic behavior, the more readily he can acknowledge his problem and the easier treatment might be. More importantly, spotting the early signs of alcoholism may prevent irreparable damage to the alcoholic's life, health and the emotions of those closest to him.

Mood Change

• Alcohol invariably produces a change in the drinker's emotions as he becomes inebriated. Alcoholics, however, may develop significant shifts in their mood and behavior when they drink. They may become angrier or more irritable. They may sink into a depression or express feelings of despair. Conversely, they may seem much happier or joyful when they drink. The specifics depend on the individual, but a distinct "Jekyll and Hyde" pattern may emerge that is tied into alcohol consumption.

Secrecy

• Alcoholics might begin to drink alone or in secret, either as a means of avoiding criticism over their drinking or because they simply feel more comfortable. They may stash supplies of alcohol in hidden places and become irritated when confronted about it or interrupted. They may also lie to cover up their drinking, denying that they have consumed any alcohol, even though they have.

Tolerance

• Alcoholics tend to build up a tolerance to liquor, meaning that it requires greater and greater amounts to achieve the same effects. If you find yourself ordering doubles when you used to order singles, gulping down liquor in a single swallow or drinking larger amounts of alcohol in order to feel "normal," you may be developing a tolerance.

Rituals

• Alcoholics often set rituals for their drinking, such as having a drink before dinner, at a certain time or day or under a set series of circumstances. They may also begin drinking before events where alcohol will be served, such as baseball games or evenings on the town. More importantly, they may become angry or irritated when these rituals are interrupted, or if their set "drinking time" rolls around and there's no alcohol to be had.

Compulsion

• Alcoholics may develop a compulsive need to drink, finding themselves fixated on their beverage of choice and planning leisure activities solely around their alcohol consumption. When they start drinking, it may become increasingly difficult for them to stop, and they may demonstrate an inability to "cut themselves off" at the end of the night.