Do I Have a Drinking Problem?

The month of April has been dedicated as Alcohol Awareness Month, and although this only occurs for a single month, it is important to continue to raise awareness of this type of addiction year-round. Alcoholism is the misuse of alcohol that may have detrimental effects on an individual’s body, mental health, and relationships with others. If you are looking for an Intensive Outpatient Program Florida, the Beachcomber is committed to providing information to the public on how this disease can be treated, while also providing support for those that are having a difficult time overcoming the hurdle of controlling their drinking problem.

The first step in beginning the road to recovery is taking notice that you or your loved one has let alcohol become a problem in their life. This recognition may not always be easy, so being honest is a key factor in the admittance of alcoholism.

The American Addiction Centers list the signs and symptoms of an individual suffering from alcoholism as the following:

• Feeling powerless to control one’s level of alcohol abuse
• Declining to engage in social activities or hobbies that used to be of interest
• Having a desire to stop or decrease drinking but being unable to do so
• Using alcohol in high-risk situations, such as swimming or driving
• Devoting significant time and resources to drinking
• Developing a tolerance for alcohol
• Experiencing cravings for alcohol when not drinking
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking
• Facing problems at work, home, or school because of alcohol use
• In reaction to the discomfort associated with withdrawal, having to drink to feel better
• Continuing to use alcohol even when it is leading to social, physical, relationship, and personal problems

If you see these signs or symptoms in yourself or a loved one, it may be time to begin the discussion that alcoholism has become an issue that should be dealt with, which may include finding the support they need to overcome their battle with alcohol abuse.

Because alcohol is legal, many people often disregard the effects of its use and abuse. The justification that they are not breaking the law by consuming this intoxicant makes the user more confident that there is nothing wrong with their behavior, which can lead to severe consequences. For instance, every year, alcohol is responsible for 5.3% of worldwide deaths. These range from alcohol-related incidents such as driving under the influence, as well as the harmful effects of consumption in itself: liver damage, heart disease, brain, and nervous system disorders, digestive problems, and even cancer. Furthermore, about 6% of American adults have an alcohol use disorder, and only about 7% of those people ever get treatment for it. 

The professionals at The Beachcomber Intensive Outpatient Program South Florida are trained to support the strong individuals who are making their way down the road to recovery. They are able to do this by providing the care and concern necessary to start breaking the bad habits that have formed as a result of a person’s dependence on alcohol. Don’t let yourself or a loved one continue down the path of addiction; seek the help needed to win the battle against alcoholism.