It is often challenging to recognize a struggle with alcohol addiction until several facets of a person’s life have begun to change dramatically. This is especially true when an individual is able to continue their day-to-day life in a seemingly normal way, which enables them to conceal their alcohol addiction easily and for longer periods of time. Even in cases where a facade of normalcy is maintained, alcohol addiction causes the person who is struggling to put their life in jeopardy on a daily basis. They can risk long-term physical and mental health issues.
There are several signs to look out for once alcohol abuse is suspected, but a few may be easier to spot. If any of the indications below seem familiar to you, it may be worth considering treatment in an alcohol detox center. Lotus Recovery Centers is here to help with this critical step in your alcohol recovery. Please reach out by calling 833.922.1615 to speak to a member of our friendly and compassionate staff today.
Common Signs of an Alcohol Addiction
Some signs of alcohol addiction can easily be mistaken for other disorders or life interferences, such as depression or stress. Although numerous circumstances can be at the root of alcohol addiction, once alcohol abuse has become part of the picture, it can be nearly impossible to fully address the issues affecting someone without first confronting the alcohol abuse. Look out for the following signs to determine if alcohol could be the primary factor behind negative changes.
1. Unusually High Tolerance for Alcohol
During a typical night out, have you noticed that you have an ability to consume more than most and still seem normal to those around you? This could indicate an elevated alcohol tolerance, which can be a sign that your body has ramped up its ability to process alcohol to catch up to increased usage.
2. Avoiding Situations That Don’t Include Alcohol
Have you noticed that you now go out of your way to avoid situations that used to be tolerable while sober? Or is there a certain friend or family member who you only see with a drink in their hand, and seeing them at a function that doesn’t include alcohol would be highly unlikely?
3. Dependence on Alcohol as a Coping Mechanism
People will often use alcohol as a sleep aid or to unwind after a stressful day. Have you ever turned to alcohol to manage or numb emotions? By self-soothing with alcohol, people become numb to what’s happening around them, neglecting problems instead of directly facing them. Over time this consistent neglect can lead to the breakdown of relationships and erosion of a person’s sense of self.
4. Becoming Moody, Secretive, or Withdrawn
Someone who is generally forthcoming can suddenly appear secretive. This change in disposition usually stems from a fear of being judged, shamed, or pressured to confront their addiction. Everyone has a right to privacy, but if someone you care about has become unusually withdrawn, secretive, or even moody, it’s possible that maintaining transparency in daily life has become too much of a burden.
Do You or Someone You Know Need Alcohol Addiction Treatment?
While there are many signs to be aware of when recognizing alcohol addiction, these signs alone are not enough for a reliable assessment. The care and expertise of trained professionals are often required to be certain of alcohol addiction. Professional treatment is the first step in recovery after acceptance. Adequate treatment involves a thorough assessment of the client, which is often followed by medically supervised detox and targeted behavioral therapies.
Begin Alcohol Rehab Today at Lotus Recovery
After a team member completes an initial assessment, we will begin working on your recovery plan. Our aim is to provide access to rehabilitation and compassionate care to our clients without the barriers to treatment, such as prohibitive costs. If you or someone close to you is ready to begin the treatment journey, please contact Lotus Recovery Centers at 833.922.1615 today.
