Alcohol abuse is just like any other disorder. The sooner that you spot the symptoms of it, the sooner you can seek treatment for your loved one. It’s not uncommon for someone suffering from alcoholism to be unable to recognize the signs. They often don’t have the physical or mental capacity to do so, and many have also become quite good at hiding the symptoms. If you have a feeling that someone you know may be struggling with alcoholism, keep an eye out for the following signs:
Abnormal Mood Swings
Unexplained and sudden mood swings in someone who is usually mild tempered and doesn’t suffer from a mood disorder can often be a symptom of withdrawal. If a loved one experiences these mood swings, it is likely that they have been hiding their addiction for quite some time.
A High Tolerance Level
When someone’s body becomes used to alcohol in high quantities, they build up a high tolerance level. This means that it can take them longer to feel the effects of alcohol, yet also experience the symptoms of alcohol for much longer than is normal. This is a chronic sign of a full-blown addiction.
Experiencing Blackouts
Blackouts usually occur after binge drinking. If the person you know suffers from a lot of blackouts, it’s likely that they are drinking to excess on a regular basis.
Needing to Drink Every Day
If your loved one needs to have a drink every day, this is another sign of alcoholism. This is especially true if they are drinking at inopportune times, such as before work. Most alcoholics need to continue drinking to alleviate the withdrawal symptoms. This can often lead to them needing to hide their drinking and carrying alcohol on them at all times.
Unable to Maintain Relationships
When someone is an alcoholic, they tend to love alcohol more than anything else in their life. This can lead to secrecy and dishonesty in a relationship, which ultimately leads to it breaking down. If the person you know is unable to give up alcohol to get their relationship back on track, this is another sign of alcoholism.
Neglecting Responsibilities
Carrying on from the point above, alcoholics tend to neglect responsibilities as the need for a drink takes over. This can lead to unexplained absences from work, a failure to meet up at pre-arranged times, neglecting household chores, and lower than normal productivity levels. If the person was responsible before they started drinking heavily, this could be another clear indicator of alcohol abuse.
Exhibiting Physical Signs
People who drink to excess often showcase a number of physical signs. These include red or blotchy skin, trembling hands, and a flushed appearance.
If someone you know is exhibiting any of the above traits, it is important to encourage them to seek help. There are numerous Los Angeles detox centers that provide inpatient care in a respectable environment.
Breaking free from alcoholism isn’t easy, but it will definitely be worth it in the long run.
