By USDR
While having drinks with friends, and enjoying a few on your own at home may seem harmless enough, for many people it can reach a point where perhaps they are crossing that line of what’s normal and what is too much. Sometimes, it’s not even about the quantity, it’s about how the alcohol affects a person, which can be in a negative way.
So how can you tell when it may be too much, and when it may be time to give drinking up and ask for help? There are a number of warning signs you can look for that can help make things clearer.
You Drink Even Though It Causes Problems in Relationships
Do you find that you’re the type of person that always needs to have a drink when out with friends, family, or that special someone? If so, do you usually end up acting in a way that is embarrassing, dangerous, combative, or negative? Is this behavior affecting your relationships? Choosing to continue drinking even though it’s negatively affecting your relationships is a big red flag.
Things are Being Overlooked/Ignored Due to Your Drinking
We all have responsibilities in our lives, whether it be at home, work, or school. If you find you are ignoring your responsibilities because you are drunk or hungover, this could be a sign you have a drinking problem. Maybe you are still managing to get stuff done, just very poorly. This is still a warning sign to watch out for.
Do You Make Up Excuses to Drink?
Are you constantly looking for an excuse to have a drink so that you can unwind, deal with your stress, relax, or feel as though you fit in? Alcohol shouldn’t be needed in those situations, so again this is a warning sign.
Do You Have Blackouts?
Do you ever find yourself drinking so much that you actually black out or suffer from some sort of short-term memory loss? This is quite common with alcoholics.
Do You Find Yourself Drinking Alone?
Have you moved past social settings and now find you also drink when you are alone? Do you hide the fact that you are drinking alone?
Don’t Go It Alone
If you feel you may be drinking too much, and it may be time to stop, there is absolutely no reason you should go at it alone. Speak to friends, family, and your doctor about your concerns. Your doctor will be the best source of information when it comes to guiding you and offering help.
For those who are more private and prefer to manage things on your own, there is help available. The How to Stop Drinking Expert program is one that can be followed in the privacy of your own home. No personal information is collected from you, and you don’t have to miss work or attend group therapy sessions. It provides you with a discrete way of dealing with the issue.
There is no time like the present to start moving forward and get the help you need.