SIGNS OF ALCOHOL ABUSE

If you are wondering if a person is abusing alcohol or if they have progressed to alcoholism, here is what you can look for.

Alcohol abuse:

Alcohol consumption interferes with work, school or other activities because of being hung over or sick.
The person will drink despite knowing he or she will be driving, boating or doing something else that would be risky when impaired.
There are memory losses or blackouts.
There are accidents or injuries after drinking.
The person drinks even though there are physical conditions that would be worsened by drinking.

Abuse progresses to addiction when the following signs show up:

The person can’t control how much or when he or she drinks.
He needs to take in more alcohol to get the same buzz as before.
Withdrawal symptoms set in when alcohol consumption is stopped, and the person may feel sick, sweaty, shaky and anxious.
The person gives up other activities they used to enjoy, so they can drink
A lot of time is spent either drinking or recovering from drinking.
Even though there is harm to career, education, family or other relationships, the person still drinks.
The person drinks early in the day, stays drunk for a long time, or drinks alone
They try to conceal their drinking and make excuses.
They consistently rely on alcohol to relieve stress or solve problems.
The drinker would like to quit drinking but despite repeated attempts, still drinks.
Alcohol becomes a focal point in life. The drinker must always make sure there is enough on hand, and social activities nearly always include drinking.