Is Someone I Know An Alcoholic?
Many people who suffer from alcoholism may be unaware of their problem or unable to admit it. Some show obvious signs of having problems with drinking while others can be more difficult to spot.
If you are concerned about someone you know, consider the following questions. For immediate help and advice, call Wellington Lodge today in complete confidence.
Does s/he drink alone? Drinking with other people, for example during parties or outings, is not normally a problem, but if someone drinks most of the time, especially alone or secretly, this is can be a sign of alcoholism.
How much can s/he drink? Someone on the road to alcohol dependency often shows increased tolerances for drink because their body does not respond to smaller alcohol intakes so they need to drink more in order to feel drunk.
Is drinking a part of his/her daily routine? Alcoholics often schedule their lives around their drinking, whether it is popping into a liquor store on the way home from work or visiting the pub every single day. You may see them making any excuse in order to have a drink.
Does s/he have mood swings without drink? It is common for alcoholics to lose control of their desire to consume alcohol – it becomes a real need which is just as strong as the urge to eat when feeling hungry. If their pattern of drinking is disturbed many alcoholics become irritable and antisocial until they are able to get back to it.
How does s/he react to questions about drinking? One of the “classic” signs of alcoholism is to respond with denial, anger or outright lies if confronted about the amount someone drinks. Alcoholics often refuse to believe they have a problem which is the main thing that prevents them from taking steps to address it.
Can s/he function normally without alcohol? If you see someone you know treating alcohol as a sort of energy drink which they need to consume in order to get anything done, they are likely developing a serious problem. Many alcoholics also keep alcohol in strange places to ensure they never run out – for example in a drawer at the office, in the car or in unlikely rooms at home.
Has s/he ceased personal care? Many alcoholics don’t take proper care of themselves and their lives; you may notice decreased appetite, losing track of finances, poor job performance and lack of concentration, or even “missing days” when the person was so intoxicated they were unable to
Are there any withdrawal signs? If you know someone who is showing physical withdrawal symptoms when s/he has not had a drink then they have a very severe problem. Common symptoms include nausea, sweating, shaking and anxiety. These may often show up first thing in the morning before the alcoholic’s “first drink of the day” and will only stop when alcohol is consumed.
If you are worried about signs of alcoholism in someone you know and care about, get discreet and confidential advice from our expert and caring staff by calling Wellington Lodge today on 0800 8600 461 for free from UK landlines.
What Do You Need To Know?
- More about the signs of alcoholism
- How to get an alcohol assessment
- About alcohol treatment from Wellington Lodge
