Are You Drinking Too Much Alcohol?

Many people do not realize that they have a problem with alcohol until it has started to affect their lives. If you recognize the signs of alcoholism, then you will be able to stop it before it ruins your life. There are a number of signs that you may notice if you are drinking too much. Below are some signs to look out for.

Many people do not realize that they have a problem with alcohol until it has started to affect their lives. If you recognize the signs of alcoholism, then you will be able to stop it before it ruins your life. There are a number of signs that you may notice if you are drinking too much. Below are some signs to look out for.

 

You are a Weekend Warrior

 

Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to drink every day in order to have a problem with alcohol. If you find yourself binge-drinking on the weekend, then you likely have an alcohol problem. Binge drinking is the act of drinking four or more drinks in one sitting.

Binge drinking can be just as bad for your health as consuming alcohol every day. Studies have shown that binge drinking can raise your blood pressure and damage your liver. It is also important to note that drinking large amounts of alcohol at one time can lead to death. The smaller you are, the more likely you will be to suffer alcohol poisoning.

You Always Exceed Your Limits

Many people try to control their alcohol consumption by putting a cap on the number of drinks that they can consume. However, if you find that you are never able to stick with your limit, then this is a sign that you are losing control of your alcohol intake. It is a good idea to find out what is triggering your alcohol consumption and avoid it,

 

You are Neglecting Your Responsibilities

 

If your drinking is out of control, then it may become your top priority. As a result of this, you may find yourself neglecting your responsibilities. For example, you may find yourself missing work because of your drinking. You may also neglect taking care of your home and family.

 

You Engage in Risky Behavior

 

Alcohol lowers your inhibitions, which increases your chances of engaging in risky behavior. One night of drinking can change your life for the worse. In fact, alcohol plays a role in about 60 percent of drownings and fatal burn injuries. It also plays a role in about 40 percent of car accidents and falls.

 

Other People Have Commented About Your Drinking

 

Your family members and friends will likely say something about your drinking if it is getting out of control. It is important for you to listen to the feedback that you are getting. If your friends and family members say that you have an alcohol problem, then you likely have one.

 

Your Memory is Suffering

 

Alcohol does not affect everyone the same. The way that alcohol affects you will depend on your genetics. The medications that you are taking will also affect alcohol absorption. Additionally, food is another thing that can affect the way that your body absorbs alcohol.

 

However, everyone who frequently drinks in excess will likely have memory problems. Studies have shown that alcohol can disrupt glutamate, which is a brain messenger that controls memory. You may not remember what you did during a night of drinking. You may also find yourself at home and have no idea how you got there.

 

You Cannot Have Fun Without Alcohol

 

If you cannot have fun without alcohol, then you most likely have a drinking problem. You may also find yourself cutting back on other activities that do not involve alcohol.

 

You Use Alcohol to Cope with Stress

 

Alcohol can give you short-term relief from stress. However, it does not make the problems go away. In fact, alcohol can worsen them. You likely have an alcohol problem if you have to drink to cope with stress.

 

Do You Have a Drinking Problem?

 

If you feel that you may actually have a problem with drinking or alcohol addiction, it’s imperative that you seek help. You may need to seek inpatient or outpatient treatment, or you may find that a 12-step group like Alcoholics Anonymous works for you. Here are some resources that will help you to get help.