The initial phase of addiction is easy to ignore
Sometimes it can be difficult to tell if alcohol consumption is within normal limits or has already crossed the line and is approaching addiction. We offer you an expert opinion on what to watch out for so that alcohol does not become a real problem.
The initial phase of addiction is easy to ignore and later becomes much more difficult to deal with. Experts point to nine signs that alcohol is becoming a problem for you. If any of these scenarios sound familiar to you, it may be time to take action.
1. Drink more than you planned
If you regularly promise not to drink more than a few glasses at a party, but you can’t control yourself and stop in time, it’s time to think. This is an early warning signal.
2. Increase the dose
The “usual” dose of alcohol no longer affects you as it used to. You need to drink a lot more to achieve the desired effect. Your brain adapts to alcohol over time and may become less sensitive to its effects.
3. Sometimes you crave a drink
There are times when you crave a drink so much that you can’t think of anything else until you drink something. This strong need or urge can be caused by people, places, things, emotions or hours of the day that remind you to drink.
4. The hangover disrupts your plans
Of course, this can happen to anyone, but if you come from time to time with a hangover, cancel appointments, miss appointments or stay up late for school for a drink the day before, this becomes a problem.
5. Your entertainment is based on alcohol use
In your free time you are not very attracted to non-alcoholic entertainment and meetings with non-drinkers and you can not imagine a weekend without a glass of wine. If so, it’s time to change something in your habits.
6. You are familiar with the symptoms of withdrawal
As the effects of alcohol disappear, you may have trouble sleeping, shivering, irritability, anxiety, depression, nausea or sweating. Alcohol changes your brain chemistry and when you drink a lot for a long period of time, your brain tries to adapt. If you suddenly stop drinking, your brain needs to adapt again, causing these withdrawal symptoms.
7. Your loved ones are worried
Drinking has caused you problems with family or friends. Hide alcohol or drink secretly so as not to upset loved ones. This is a common symptom of the early stages of addiction and a signal to change your habits.
8. You get into dangerous situations
Alcohol has put you in risky situations such as driving, swimming, fighting, dangerous sex or walking in a dangerous area. Even if nothing bad happened, it is a warning sign.
9. You don’t look well
Puffiness and bags under the eyes, dull skin and “wrinkled” appearance may be associated with dehydration or high stress on the liver caused by alcohol consumption.
Each of these signs can signal an alcohol problem. It’s time to start thinking about reducing alcohol or not at all.
It may be worth seeking help from a doctor or psychologist.
