It can be hard to tell when your drinking has crossed the line from moderate use to a real problem with alcohol. Understanding the problem is the first step to overcoming alcoholism, and it’s important to recognize the warning signs, and to take steps to cutback on use, and seek treatment.

Alcoholism 101: What You Need to Know

Alcoholism is the most extreme and serious form of problem drinking. It’s all the same signs of alcohol abuse, like neglecting your job or responsibilities, lying about your drinking or eve legal problems stemming from it, compounded with one major difference – people with alcoholism have a physical compulsion to drink, one that they usually can’t control. Their bodies have become dependent on alcohol, and this dependency can lead to withdrawal if access to alcohol is limited. Withdrawal normally affects people with signs like sweating, shaking or headaches, but in serious cases, withdrawal from alcohol can lead to seizures or even fever. Withdrawal can have serious medical consequences if not properly addressed or monitored.

Any number of factors can influence how alcohism affects you. Some race, like American Indians, are more at risk than others of struggling with alcoholism, as are those who have a family history of alcohol addiction. Those with mental health issues, like anxiety or bi-polar disorder are especially at risk. Alcohol is widely used to self medicate during times of emotional turmoil, and can very quickly spiral into addiction.

Denial is often the only obstacle keeping people from getting help for their alcoholism. The desire and compulsion to drink can push a person’s mind to find any way to rationalize drinking. It prevents you from taking a real, honest look at your actions and their negative effects on your relationships, finances or job.

Alcoholism in any degree can have a major impact on your health and your life, even if you don’t realize it. The people around you often see the warning signs and side effects of your alcoholism long before you come to terms with it. They’re also among the first to be impacted. If your drinking is causing problems with or for the people around you, it’s time to take a step back and take a hard look at your behavior.

If you find yourself drinking more than you planned regularly, giving up things you once enjoyed in favor of drinking, or are craving alcohol, it’s time to consider getting treatment for alcoholism.  

At The Springboard Center, we know that you and your family need a treatment provider you can trust. Incorporating the best of practices we have created a meaningful program to restore health and dignity with quality care and counseling.

Call us today for information on how we are serving the Permian Basin: (432) 620-0255