12 Symptoms of Alcoholism that you need to know

If you are looking for an article full of light humor, today is a blog post that is a little more serious. But, like any important conversation, there's always room for a smile or two, so let's get to the point.

How do you know when that glass of wine at dinner or that occasional beer with friends has crossed the line into something more serious? Keep reading.

Symptoms of alcoholism that should worry you

Drink alcohol as if it were water

It seems like you can't go a day without at least one drink anymore. You've reached the point where drinking has become as common as brushing your teeth. Physical dependence on alcohol is a clear sign that you are navigating turbulent waters.

Now, I don't want to scare you. If you enjoy a glass of wine from time to time, it doesn't mean you're in trouble.. But if you find yourself thinking about that drink with worrying frequency, it might be time to evaluate your relationship with alcohol.

Tolerance: A Not-So-Super Superpower

Do you remember the first time you tried alcohol? Maybe just one drink was enough to make you feel a little dizzy. But now,

It seems like you need more and more to achieve the same effect.. And no, this is not like developing a resistance to kryptonite, this is called alcohol tolerance, and it is a sign that your body is adapting to alcohol, which can lead to alcoholism.

Alcohol tolerance is not a superpower. It won't make you a member of the Justice League. In fact, it's the opposite. It's a sign that your body is struggling to stay afloat in a sea of ​​alcohol.

• Related article: "Drug habituation: what it is, types, causes and characteristics"

Withdrawal Syndrome: When the Party is Over

You may have noticed that you feel particularly nervous or irritable if it's been a while since your last drink. You might have headaches, nausea, or even tremors. No, you're not developing an X-Men mutation, you're experiencing alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

Instead of becoming Wolverine, alcohol withdrawal can make you feel more like you've been hit by a bus. It's another clear sign that alcohol has become too frequent a visitor in your life.

To drink? What a problem?

One of the most worrying signs of alcoholism is denial. It's like when you try to convince yourself that you don't need a GPS to get to that new place, even though you've gotten lost three times along the way.

Denying that you have a problem with alcohol can make you feel like you are keeping things under control. But, just like denying that you need glasses when you have trouble reading the menu, it doesn't make the problem go away.

• You may be interested: "The 14 most important types of addictions"

12 Common Symptoms of Alcoholism

It can be difficult to distinguish between "normal" and problematic alcohol use, but there are certain warning signs that should not be ignored. Here is your list of common symptoms of alcoholism:

• High alcohol tolerance: Do you need to drink more than you used to to feel the same effects?
• Consumption at inappropriate times: Do you find yourself drinking first thing in the morning, or in situations where it can be dangerous, like before driving?
• Denial: Do you deny having a problem, even when friends or family express concern?
• Drink alone: Do you drink alone more often?
• Changes in behavior: Have you noticed changes in your performance at work, at school, or in your personal relationships?
• Forgetfulness or memory loss: Do you have memory lapses or "blackout" periods after drinking?
• Alcohol-related health problems: Have you experienced health problems such as cirrhosis of the liver, memory problems, or alcoholic neuropathy (nerve damage caused by alcohol)?
• Inability to stop drinking: Have you tried to limit or stop drinking without success? 9. Withdrawal symptoms: When you try to stop drinking, do you experience withdrawal symptoms such as shaking, nausea, sweating, or anxiety?
• Concern about alcohol: Do you spend a lot of time thinking about alcohol, obtaining it, consuming it, and recovering from its effects?
• Abandonment of activities you enjoyed: Have you stopped doing activities you previously enjoyed to drink?
• Continue drinking despite negative consequences: Do you continue drinking even though it has already caused you health, personal or legal problems?

Common causes of alcoholism

Alcoholism is a complex and multifaceted problem, and its causes are equally varied and complex. However, some of the most commonly identified causes are listed below:

1. Genetics

Science has shown that Genetics plays an important role in the development of alcoholism. If you have a parent or sibling with alcohol problems, your risk is higher. It's not that there is an "alcoholism gene," but certain genetic variants can make some people more likely to become alcoholics.

2. Around

The environment you grew up in, the people you surrounded yourself with, the culture you immersed yourself in; All of these factors can influence your relationship with alcohol. For example, if you grew up in an environment where alcohol consumption was common and accepted, you might be more likely to develop problems with alcohol.

3. Anxiety, depression and other psychological problems

People with certain mental health conditions, such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, or anxiety, may be more likely to have problems with alcohol. Alcohol is often used as a form of self-medication to manage these mental health issues.

4. Trauma history

Trauma can be a powerful trigger for alcoholism. People who have experienced physical or sexual abuse, neglect, or any other type of trauma may turn to alcohol as a way to deal with their psychological pain.

5. Social pressure

Pressure from friends or society in general to drink can lead some people to drink excessively and develop a dependence on alcohol.

Remember, although these causes are common, each person is unique and may have a combination of factors contributing to their alcoholism. It is important not to blame yourself or others, but to seek help and understand that alcoholism is an addiction, not a choice.

Frequently asked questions about alcoholism

Is alcoholism hereditary?

There is a certain genetic predisposition to alcoholism, but It's not a life sentence.. Environmental and behavioral factors also play an important role. But yes, you have close family members with alcohol problems, you are more likely to develop at some point (or your children if you allow the problem to get worse by not seeking psychological treatment already).

Can I drink safely if I have a history of alcoholism in my family?

If you have a history of alcoholism in your family, you should be particularly cautious with alcohol. Consult a health professional if you have any questions.

How do I know if I have a problem with alcohol?

If you are concerned about your alcohol consumption, talk to a health professional. They can evaluate your symptoms and help you determine if you need help.

Can alcoholism be cured?

Alcoholism is a complex problem, and even if you manage to go several years without drinking alcohol, you should always be alert in certain contexts. But don't worry, There are effective treatments that can help you cope with addiction and live a healthy and happy life..

How to quit alcohol?

Need help? Am Luis Miguel Real, an addiction psychologist, and I have helped thousands of people overcome their addiction problems.

Contact me and we will start working on your case as soon as possible.