People might worry that their habit of drinking during celebrations might become a source of escapism someday. After all, there is a thin line between drinking occasionally and becoming an alcoholic.

So, how would you know you are developing a complex relationship with alcohol? Or that social indulgence is turning into alcohol dependency? Well, the answer lies within the subtle signs and patterns you follow.

There are a few signs that you can notice in yourself that can indicate you’re drinking too much.

1. Changing Perception

How you see or perceive alcohol can be a big red flag. The earliest sign can be the transition from drinking alcohol at parties to alcohol dependency.

People become alcohol-dependent when they are stressed about something. But it only feels good initially, after the effects of alcohol wear off you can become more sad or angry.

If alcohol has become your priority, you are constantly thinking about it, making reasons to drink, or viewing it as a necessity rather than a choice then it’s time you pause and understand the situation in depth.

2. People Noticing

The first indication can be people showing concern about your drinking habits. Sometimes what you can’t see can be easily noticed by others.

People can notice the tiniest bit of change in your behavior. Not participating in activities you once liked, lacking behind in work or studies or constantly having a difficult time with your loved ones can give people clues about your drinking habits.

If your friends or family are worried about you drinking, you should rethink the whole situation without brushing off their concerns.

3. Becoming Secretive

If you’re hiding your drinking habits from family and friends, then deep down, you already know you have a drinking problem. Lying about drinking can be a vital sign indicating alcoholism.

Additionally, people who drink too much isolate themselves from others to avoid confrontations. If you find yourself avoiding discussions about alcohol or hiding the truth about the amount of alcohol you drank, you might consider getting help.

4. Affecting Personal and Professional Life

Drinking too much not only becomes a reason for fights in the family but it can also affect your professional life by making you lose focus and turning you less productive.

Missing work or social commitments, abandoning your hobbies or passion, experiencing a decline in performance and neglecting responsibility toward your family can indicate alcoholism.

5. Loss of Control

Do you decide before drinking that you won’t take a sip more than the specific amount but eventually, you lose all the control and drink till you black out? Or did you try setting out a bar to cut out alcohol but couldn’t do it?

Well, losing control over the quantity of alcohol you consume is a red flag. If you find yourself drinking too much or being unable to stop even once you’ve started then it is high time you seek help.

What Can You Do To Quit Alcohol?

Quitting alcohol is a tough journey but not an impossible one, especially once you consider your long-term health. If you think you can’t do this alone, consider entering a rehabilitation program. WhiteSands’ Rehab Center is recognized as a Newsweek Top Rehab Center in Florida. This distinguished rehab offers personalized treatment plans and top-notch facilities for ensuring a smooth and sustainable recovery.

Conclusion

While keeping the signs in mind, make sure you don’t cross the line between social enjoyment and alcohol dependency. You can take the first step toward recovery by being honest with yourself and your family.

Conversing openly with your friends or family about your issue can help you gain clarity and set your priorities straight. Although the journey toward recovery will be long, gaining control of your mind will be worth it.