Often, it is the loved ones who first notice the warning signs of alcoholism because those actually afflicted are in denial. They do not see, nor do they want to see, that there may be a problem with their drinking. Occasionally, however, the alcoholic does see themselves when they read the warning signs, even if they don’t admit it right away.
In fact, one of the warning signs of alcoholism is denial, or refusing to see that there is a problem with alcohol.
One of the warning signs of alcoholism is denial, or refusing to see that there is a problem with alcohol.
Another warning sign is drinking even after someone has promised themselves or their loved ones that they would not.
This is addiction and is a very definite sign of alcoholism. If more than one family member or friends have noticed that there is a “problem” with someone’s drinking, there probably is. Eventually it comes down to the alcoholic thinking the rest of the world is wrong, and they are right.
Having a drink first thing in the morning “just because”, to steady nerves or to ease the effects of a hangover is another warning sign.
Just as the drug addict must have their fix when they wake, so must the alcoholic have their drink. It is another sign of addiction and it is very common among alcoholics and drug addicts alike.
If someone is having blackouts, memory losses or feeling bad about things that occurred while drinking should send up a red flag.
Anyone who has blackouts is doing some serious drinking and there is no doubt it is adversely affecting their health. Because alcohol lowers inhibitions, hurtful things are often said by alcoholics that they later regret (whether they admit it or not).
People who drink because they are happy, sad, nervous, remorseful or any other emotion are displaying a sign of alcoholism.
The same is true for people who often have hangovers when they wake due to the amount of drinking they did. Alcoholics also often shake or have trembling when they wake up. Alcoholics will often drink alone or in secret. For instance, they may have a bottle of booze hidden somewhere in the house or their room.
Signs of alcoholism should be taken very seriously. Alcoholism never has a happy ending unless the person quits drinking. If your loved one won’t admit they have a problem, then call an alcohol treatment program yourself and find out what you can do. Someone has to act, and quickly.
