How to Know if a Relative Has a Drinking Problem

Many people can drink without developing a dependency to alcohol, or alcoholism. For others, however, drinking can and does lead them down the path to addiction, where the need for alcohol will be so strong it can tear apart their lives. This divide defies nationality, class, gender or race, and, in fact, one in 12 Americans are either dependent upon alcohol or abuse alcohol, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. This dependency threatens a sufferer's physical, emotional and financial well-being, not to mention that it can spell legal trouble. If you suspect a loved one has a drinking problem, be alert to the signs so that you can refrain from enabling him.

Instructions

• 1

  Take note of how often your loved one indulges in alcohol, and how much he may be drinking. Not only will alcoholics believe you need alcohol to have a good time, over time they will continue to drink more to achieve their highs. They also tend to drink in the morning to recover from a hangover from the night before.

• 2

  Ask yourself if your relative is withdrawing from hanging out with you or other members of the family to drink alone at home. He may demonstrate particularly selfish behavior and seem not to care about anyone else.

• 3

  Take particular notice of any negative consequences from the drinking. Pay attention to any problems at work, managing money or within interpersonal relationships. Note "blackouts" your loved one may be experiencing, or any high-risk behavior that corresponds to the excessive drinking. This includes sexual promiscuity.

• 4

  Express your concerns to your loved one and then gauge any defensiveness about her drinking when confronted about the frequency, amount or the consequences that follow. If she feels guilty, she may say that the problem is more yours than hers and appear to be offended by your intrusion.

• 5

  Test his honesty. If your relative has a drinking problem, he will likely try to hide how much he is drinking. If he is continually caught lying about his behavior, odds are there is a problem.

• 6

  Take note of any triggers that may spark a drinking binge. Determine if your relative's drinking is a part of her daily routine or if she plans out her drinking episodes. She may also drink as a coping mechanism if things are going poorly, or if she is especially stressed or depressed.

• 7

  Pay close attention to his need to drink after facing serious, legal consequences. This includes drinking and driving, public intoxication or any other criminal behavior that stems from the alcohol abuse.