Signs of Alcohol Addiction
For some people, having a glass of alcohol every day doesn’t create addiction. This is not the case, however, for everyone. In fact, tens of millions of Americans struggle with alcohol use problems, and sadly, most of them will not get the help they need. There’s no amount of alcohol that can be considered entirely safe, especially for individuals who are predisposed to addiction. However, recognizing the signs of alcohol addiction can be critical to ensuring you get the help you need to protect your future. Alina Lodge can help.
If you are concerned that you or someone you care about is suffering from an alcohol use disorder and needs help, contact Alina Lodge to learn more about our long-term alcohol addiction treatment programs. You can reach out to us using our convenient online form or by calling 833.685.1700,
What Happens in Alcohol Addiction?
When a person has an alcohol use disorder, they are, of course, more likely to drink more significant amounts and drink often. However, it is an often-overlooked fact that for individuals who are susceptible to addiction — by genetic predisposition, for example, or because they have an underlying mental condition fueling their addiction — it does not take a lot of alcohol to cause addiction. For many, having a drink each day or most days can be the start. It also goes without saying that binge drinking — drinking four to five glasses of alcohol within a short period — can have the same effect.
Addiction occurs when you recognize the risks to what you are doing, and you know you should not continue particular actions, but you do them anyway. A person with this level of dependence upon the substance needs alcohol and craves it. This effect is due in large part to the changes to the brain’s chemistry that occurs during use and has very little to do with willpower or moral strength. When this happens, the bran is reliant on the alcohol to function normally. And, an individual will need progressively more to drink in order to get the same results.
What Are the Signs of Alcohol Addiction?
You should never overlook the signs of alcohol addiction when you encounter them. If you feel or see this happening to you or someone close to you, you must proactively take action by getting them immediate help. Some of the most common symptoms to watch out for are:
- Blackouts or short-term memory loss, losing time
- Drinking alone, hiding your drinking from others
- Making excuses about your drinking or lack of remembering responsibilities
- No longer spending as much time with your family or friends as you once did; not participating in social activities as readily
- Pain or discomfort when you do not drink
- The need to drink more or use other drugs to get the same relief or pleasure you once did
- The failure to live up to the responsibilities of work, school, or family
If you are experiencing any of these signs of alcohol addiction, you will need to take action. If you do not, you could find yourself struggling with several chronic health issues, including the risk of alcohol poisoning, which can be deadly.
What Can Aline Lodge Do to Help You?
Our team is here to help you at Alina Lodge. We offer comprehensive treatment plans to help you with every step of care you need. These include:
- Medical detox services
- Long-term residential treatment
- Family therapy services
- Continuum of care services
- Individual and group therapy
- Alumni support services and comprehensive aftercare
Alcohol addiction does not have to make you a statistic. An aggressive approach to your alcohol use issues can result in the full, alcohol-free life you deserve. It all starts by calling our team for immediate help and guidance.
Now Is the Time to Get Help from Alina Lodge
When you see the signs of alcohol addiction in yourself or a loved one, it can be frightening. The good news is you can get help, especially if you take the steps necessary today. At Alina Lodge, we offer treatment programs designed to meet each one of your needs. To get started, call 833.685.1700 today.