If you’re wondering whether your drinking has become harmful, here are ten signs that it may be time to seek support.
1. You find it difficult to reduce or stop your alcohol intake.
If you find yourself trying to set limits but consistently drink more than you intend to, it’s a sign you may have a drinking problem. According to the Mayo Clinic, one of the criteria for a diagnosis of alcohol use disorder is “being unable to limit the amount of alcohol you drink.”
2. Your loved ones have raised concerns about your drinking.
If people close to you have questioned the amount of alcohol you drink, expressed worry about your drinking, or complained about things you say or do while you’re drinking, there is reason to pause and assess the situation instead of dismissing their remarks. Because denial is a common defense mechanism, particularly for those with alcohol use disorder, it’s worth listening to and reflecting on what the people around you say about your alcohol use.
3. Alcohol takes up a lot of your time.
Do you notice yourself spending a lot of time drinking, buying alcohol, making plans for how to get alcohol, or recovering from drinking? If so, the Mayo Clinic lists this as a key warning sign of an alcohol problem.
4. You need more alcohol to feel its effects.
If you notice the amount of alcohol that used to get you buzzed no longer does the trick, and you drink more to achieve the same feeling, it’s a sign that you have developed a higher tolerance for alcohol and may be growing dependent on it.
5. You have strong cravings for alcohol or signs of withdrawal.
When you have alcohol use disorder, your body becomes “dependent” on drinking in certain ways, you crave alcohol, and you go into withdrawal after a certain period of time without drinking. Withdrawal symptoms most often include nausea, anxiety, sweating or shaking.
6. You have other physical symptoms.
The effects of excessive alcohol use on the body are broad and can include digestive problems such as inflammation of the stomach lining and esophageal ulcers, high blood pressure and irregular heartbeats, diabetes complications, eye problems, immune system deficiencies and more. If you notice any physical issues after you drink or in general day-to-day life, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately.
7. You hide your drinking or feel defensive about it.
Drinking in secret, hiding bottles of alcohol, or feeling annoyed when someone asks about your alcohol use are common signs that it is becoming problematic.
8. You’re falling short on your responsibilities.
If your drinking, or recovering from drinking is interfering with your ability to perform your job, parent your children, be present for your spouse, or fulfill daily tasks such as house chores, it’s a red flag.
9. You cut back on social activities, work or hobbies to drink.
When drinking starts to become a higher priority than the things you used to value, it’s a warning sign that alcohol has begun to take over your life.
10. You drink in unsafe situations.
Putting yourself or others at risk by drinking alcohol while driving, swimming, or operating heavy machinery is a clear sign that your alcohol use is out of control and you should seek help.
Drinking is a problem when alcohol changes your behavior, controls your life, and damages your health or relationships. If you’re experiencing any of the signs above, or if your loved ones have raised concerns, reach out for support.
How to get help
Alcohol use disorder is common and there are many sources of support and treatment. Options include medication, counseling, detox programs, and peer support groups. Start by consulting your primary care physician or mental health provider to find out which approach would be best for you.
To learn more about recovery options and explore how SOBRsafe can support your journey toward safer, healthier choices, visit our Resources Page.
Sources: Mayo Clinic, Healthline