We often picture an alcoholic as a ‘drunk’ whose life is falling apart around them, as they go wildly out of control. While this may be the case for some people, not all alcoholics display signs of alcoholism so openly. Alcohol addiction treatment centers often treat clients who have hidden their addiction for years.
Alcoholics can come from any walk of life or demographic. Alcoholism can affect people that you didn’t even know drank. As such, if you suspect that someone does have a drinking problem, knowing the signs of alcoholism may save their lives. You may be instrumental in helping them take the first step to recovery.
5 Classic Signs That Someone May Be an Alcoholic
Not everyone who abuses alcohol is an alcoholic. Addiction is often characterized by repeated destructive behaviors and an inability to stop drinking. As such here are some ways you can tell if someone has a problem:
1. Denial
Denial of a drinking problem often makes a person suspect and instantly breeds suspicion. However, a denial that contradicts other signs of alcoholism is an indicator that a person may need to get help. People often deny they have a problem because the idea of entering an alcohol rehab center in California is intimidating. Furthermore, they have to give up drinking and make significant changes in their life. This is difficult for anyone.
2. A Pattern of Excessive Drinking
Every addiction starts with a simple drink. A person may ‘have a few’ on occasion or on the weekends. Eventually, their behavior turns into a pattern of increasing alcohol intake and frequency. When they are drinking and getting drunk several times a week or daily, then it is clear they need to assess their behavior and condition.
3. Changes in Behavior
One of the most common signs of alcoholism is changes in behavior that may include:
- Decline in appearance
- Poor hygiene
- New friends or acquaintances
- Isolation from friends or family
- Neglecting responsibilities at home or work
Like an addiction, these changes are gradual. A person may slowly change their behavior over a period of months or years. It can be so slow that few people notice.
4. Obsession with Alcohol
The drinker gets to the point where all they think about is drinking. They can’t make it a day without having some type of alcohol. They may discuss alcohol a lot, have a cabinet filled with liquor, or get irritated if they are in a situation where they can’t drink. This type of behavior may lead you to believe that they have a dependence on alcohol and can’t quit.
5. Refusal to Get Help
If you mention that the user may need to consider checking into an addiction treatment center in California, they may get defensive or ignore the conversation. Staging an intervention may be the only way to get them to agree to detox or rehab.
Know the Signs of Alcoholism. Get Help Today
If you have a loved one that needs help with drug or alcohol addiction, alcohol addiction treatment centers in California are available. Programs include detox, rehab, and aftercare. To find out more about treatment options, contact a local rehab today.