What Exactly Is Alcohol Abuse?

Much like alcoholism itself, alcohol abuse doesn’t always follow a clear-cut, well-defined path that can be applied to every alcoholic. In fact, although there are a few tell-tale signs and symptoms that clearly speak of abuse, it is extremely important for each individual to gauge their own level of dependence and symptom set to see if they might be abusing alcohol to the detriment of their health and life. Of course, for most alcoholics, it can be very difficult, sometimes even impossible, to properly assess themselves and whether or not they might have a drinking problem. Because of this, the experts on staff at Yellowstone Recovery are available to help people see their drinking in a clearer light, identify their drinking habits and better understand any possible reliance on alcohol. In the meantime, there are a few signs that can help an individual better identify any level of alcohol abuse they might be dealing with, even if they’re not fully aware of the issues.

Binging

A pattern of binge drinking is one of the most obvious signs of abuse. Although most people, alcoholic or not, have had occasions that could be defined as binging, a person that makes a habit of it is displaying well-defined signs of abuse. It often indicates that the individual has lost the ability to control their drinking, more often than not drinking to get drunk rather than drinking to enjoy alcohol in a healthier, controlled manner.

Drinking Despite Consequences

Once again, even non-alcoholics sometimes make poor decisions while drinking that can lead to negative consequences. However, when an individual displays a pattern of continuing to drink despite already experiencing some of those negative consequences, it can be a definite sign of an underlying pattern of abuse. For instance, when a person has multiple DUIs or shows a pattern of violence but continues to drink, despite knowing the possible results, they are displaying obvious signs of alcohol abuse.

Tolerance and Physical Dependence

The most obvious symptoms of abuse are physical in nature. If more drinks are required than before to make an individual feel “buzzed” or drunk, then their body has started to build an unhealthy tolerance for alcohol, demonstrating a pattern of alcohol abuse through increased consumption. Even more worrisome is when someone begins to display signs of even mild physical dependence on alcohol, ranging from sporadic bouts of sweating, irregular sleeping patterns, physical shaking or a general feeling of sickness or malaise when not drinking. This individual is in immediate need of professional help as the alcohol abuse has started to take a serious physical toll on their body.

Help Is Available

Anyone that recognizes these signs of alcohol abuse does not to have to tackle the problem alone. Whether you’re displaying signs of physical dependence and in need of an alcohol detox center or just a straight-forward, understanding environment to tackle the issues behind your drinking, the experts at Yellowstone Recovery are here to help you regain control of your life.