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Signs of an Alcoholic

Alcohol is a common element of socializing and special occasions, but there comes a point in which it becomes a problem, physically and emotionally. Many habits can clue you into whether you or someone you care about is an alcoholic, but the most obvious and simple measure is recognizing if alcohol is having a negative impact on one's life.

  1. The Facts

    • While a professional diagnose alcoholism, certain signs can make it evident to friends and family members when someone they care about is suffering from the disease. 66% of the population consumes alcohol, but over 18% of Americans experience alcohol dependency or abuse at some point of their lives. It is almost three times more likely for a man to be a "problem drinker" than a woman.

    Identification

    • Many signs can suggest someone is an alcoholic. Having two or more DUIs, habitually ordering beer or wine with food at restaurants, needing to have a drink immediately after getting home from work, keeping the home stocked with alcohol, going to bars alone and the inability to have just one drink may all be signs of alcoholism. While many alcoholics drink every day, people who binge drink on the weekends may also be alcoholics.

    Effects

    • Alcoholism results in negative effects, including "blackout episodes" where the drinker is unable to recall events, poor nutrition and increased feelings of aggression or depression. Severe alcohol dependence can result in shaking, sweating and nausea when the drinker goes for a long period of time without having a drink. In the long term, alcohol abuse can lead to liver damage, erectile dysfunction and an increased risk of cancer, heart disease and stroke.

    Significance

    • The emotional and psychological effects on the alcoholic and his family and friends are the most difficult aspect of the disease. It can be especially difficult on a child when her parent is an alcoholic, as it keeps the parent from fulfilling his responsibilities. When a husband is an alcoholic, there is a greater risk of domestic abuse. Ultimately, if alcoholism is allowed to spiral out of control, it can destroy families, friendships and lives.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Alcoholism is related equally to genetics and environmental causes. For those with a genetic predisposition, it is advisable to avoid alcohol or exercise extreme caution and mindfulness while consuming it. Once someone has succumbed to alcoholism, support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and rehabilitation centers are the most promising methods of recovery.

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