Signs of Alcohol Abuse
According to the Mayo Clinic, alcohol abuse is clearly defined as a “pattern of drinking where a male consumes five or more drinks within two hours or a female downs at least four drinks within two hours.” The definition of one standard drink, as provided by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism includes one of:
12 ounces of regular beer with approximately 5% alcohol content
8 – 9 ounces of malt liquor with approximately 7% alcohol content
5 ounces of unfortified wine with approximately 12% alcohol content
1.5 ounces of 80-proof hard liquor with approximately 40% alcohol content
Every individual is different. The way alcohol affects one’s body will be dependent upon a variety of factors, which can include the amount an individual drinks, the potency of the alcohol consumed, an individual’s personal health history (e.g. weight, height, age, presence of any medical and/ or mental health conditions, etc.), if the individual mixes alcohol with other substances, the frequency as well as the length of time the individual abuses alcohol. Not only does the rate at which one metabolizes alcohol vary, but the signs of alcohol abuse will also be unique to each individual.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
There are a variety of signs and symptoms that can manifest as a result of alcohol abuse. Common signs and symptoms that may be indicative of alcohol abuse could include any combination of the following, as provided in an article published in Medical News Today:
Difficulty concentrating
Being unable to limit the amount of alcohol consumed
Slurred speech
Slowed reflexes
Memory impairment
Losing interest in previously enjoyed pastimes
Drinking alone or in secret
Feeling an urge to drink alcohol
Storing alcohol in unlikely places
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking (e.g. sweating, shaking, nausea, etc.)
Irritability
An individual that exhibits the above signs and/ or symptoms could be struggling with alcohol abuse. Although drinking alcohol is legal for individuals over the age of twenty-one in America, its effects on one’s body and mind can increase an individual’s susceptibility for developing alcohol use disorder. Individuals that struggle with alcohol use disorder will prioritize satisfying alcohol cravings above all else. This can lead to relationship issues, financial strain, legal complications, and affect in all areas of one’s life.
FOR INFORMATION AND SUPPORT
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regards to mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. There is an entire network of professionals that are readily available to help and support you and your loved one throughout every step of the recovery process.
If left untreated, substance abuse, addiction, and/ or mental illness can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. Please do not hesitate to reach out for guidance. We are always available to answer any questions, and are certainly happy to discuss how we might best be able to help in the recovery process.