Battling Alcoholism: Strategies For Dealing With Alcoholics

Alcoholism is a chronic disease that negatively impacts brain chemistry and can affect people in different ways. While there is no clinical term for an alcoholic personality, certain traits are common among those with problematic drinking. These include a constant focus on alcohol, blaming others, frequent excuses, uncontrolled drinking, financial struggles, shifting priorities, and recklessness. If you suspect that someone close to you is struggling with alcohol abuse, it is important to look out for changes in their behaviour and personality that may indicate a growing emotional reliance on alcohol. By recognizing these signs, you can encourage them to seek help and support their journey towards recovery.

Recognise the signs of alcohol addiction

Alcoholism is a chronic disease that negatively impacts brain chemistry. It is characterised by the compulsive use of alcohol regardless of negative outcomes. Alcoholism affects different people in different ways, but certain traits are present among problematic drinkers. Recognising these signs can help you identify if a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction and encourage them to seek help.

One of the most obvious signs of alcohol addiction is prioritising alcohol. A person with an alcohol addiction may only want to attend events where alcohol is present, choosing to stay home and drink rather than go to alcohol-free events. They may also constantly focus on alcohol, making sure there is alcohol available at parties or only making plans to meet friends at a bar.

People with alcohol addiction may also find any excuse to start drinking. For example, they may say they can't watch sports without drinking beer or that they need a drink after a rough day at work. As addiction progresses, it becomes increasingly difficult for people to control their drinking habits. Uncontrolled drinking is a noticeable alcoholic personality change and can be difficult to accept or deal with.

Financial struggles are another common sign of alcohol addiction. Maintaining drinking habits can be expensive, leading to bad financial decisions and financial issues such as working fewer hours or losing a job. Alcoholism can also lead to shifting priorities, neglecting romantic partners, children, or other family members.

Alcohol dependence can also cause changes in behaviour and personality. A person with alcohol addiction may become irritable, anxious, and aggressive when drinking or going through withdrawal. They may also behave in sneaky, deceptive, manipulative, or secretive ways to hide their drinking. Many addicts suffer from low self-esteem and depression, especially as other aspects of their lives begin to fall apart.

If you suspect a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction, it is important to look out for these signs and encourage them to seek help.

Understand the psychological and emotional landscape of alcohol dependence

Alcohol dependence can be both psychological and physical, leading to several financial, health, or relationship issues. The mental tether one feels towards alcohol is profound, and understanding this psychological dependency is essential in the broader context of alcohol addiction.

Psychological dependence on alcohol is more complex and harder to pinpoint than physical dependence. It relates to the emotional and mental ties that individuals form with alcohol. Someone might drink to cope with stress, mask pain, or feel socially accepted. Over time, they believe they can’t function without alcohol, leading to a compulsive need to drink despite knowing its adverse effects. The human brain is designed with a reward system that reinforces behaviours essential for survival. However, this same system can be hijacked by alcohol. When individuals drink alcohol, the brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. Over time, as one continues to drink to experience this pleasurable sensation, the brain starts to rely on alcohol to produce these dopamine levels. This creates a reinforcing cycle where drinking becomes associated with psychological and emotional rewards.

The more one relies on alcohol to numb emotional pain, the less they can handle emotions without it. Over time, this can lead to a situation where the very thought of facing an emotional challenge without a drink can lead to overwhelming anxiety and fear. The psychological dependence on alcohol also brings about cognitive distortions that affect an individual’s perception of their drinking habits. For instance, an individual might convince themselves that they “deserve” a drink after a hard day or that everyone in their social circle drinks, so it’s acceptable. Many struggling with alcoholism downplay or outright deny their dependence, viewing their drinking patterns as normal or under control.

Alcohol dependence can also make a person impatient and easily aggravated. Many addicts end up suffering from low self-esteem and depression, especially if other aspects of their lives begin to fall apart. In some cases, mental health conditions occur as a result of substance abuse, but alcoholism can also be a coping mechanism for existing psychological issues.

Identify the common traits of an alcoholic, such as blaming others and making excuses

Alcoholism is a chronic disease that negatively impacts brain chemistry. It is a form of addiction that can progress from mild to severe. Alcohol dependence can be psychological, physical, or both, and it can lead to financial, health, and relationship issues. While there is no clinical term for an "alcoholic personality", certain personality traits are often observed in people with alcoholism. These traits can vary depending on the stage of alcoholism.

One of the most common traits of an alcoholic is blaming others. This behaviour is common among people with substance abuse disorders as they try to avoid taking responsibility for their actions. They may blame their unhealthy behaviour on difficult aspects of their lives, such as their job, or the people around them, such as coworkers, housemates, partners, or relatives. This blame game can create barriers to recovery by preventing individuals from acknowledging their addiction and seeking help. It is often a defence mechanism that allows them to avoid confronting the fact that they have an addiction.

Making excuses is another common trait of an alcoholic. People struggling with alcohol use may use any excuse to start drinking, such as having had a rough day at work or needing a drink to watch sports or enjoy dinner. As addiction progresses, it becomes increasingly difficult for them to control their drinking habits. Alcoholics will always have an excuse ready to justify their drinking, sparing them from any accountability.

Other common traits of an alcoholic include a constant focus on alcohol, financial struggles, shifting priorities, uncontrolled drinking, and recklessness. They may become secretive, manipulative, irritable, anxious, or aggressive. Many addicts suffer from low self-esteem, depression, and worsening mental health.

If you recognise these traits in yourself or a loved one, it is important to seek help. Encouraging open conversations about addiction and providing a supportive environment can be helpful. Professional treatment and recovery strategies, such as therapy and counselling, can address underlying issues and help individuals accept responsibility and begin their journey toward healing and sobriety.

Know how to support a loved one dealing with alcohol abuse

Alcoholism is a chronic disease that negatively impacts brain chemistry and can affect people in different ways. It is often difficult to know how to help a loved one struggling with alcohol addiction. Here are some ways to support a loved one dealing with alcohol abuse:

Firstly, it is important to be aware of the signs of alcohol abuse. These can include a constant focus on alcohol, blaming others, frequent excuses, uncontrolled drinking, financial struggles, shifting priorities, and recklessness. Alcoholics may also behave in sneaky, deceptive, manipulative, or secretive ways, or they may become irritable, anxious, and aggressive. Understanding these signs can help you determine if your loved one is struggling with alcohol abuse.

Once you have identified the signs, it is crucial to approach your loved one with empathy and understanding. Avoid being judgmental or confrontational, as this may push them away. Instead, express your concern and let them know that you are there to support them. Offer to help them seek professional help, such as therapy or support groups, and provide them with resources and information about treatment options. It is important to remember that recovery is a process and that relapse may occur. Be patient and continue to offer your support throughout their journey.

Encourage healthy lifestyle changes that can help your loved one reduce their alcohol consumption. This may include suggesting alternative activities or hobbies that can serve as healthy coping mechanisms, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature. Supporting your loved one in developing a strong social support system can also be beneficial. Encourage them to spend time with supportive friends and family members who can provide a sense of community and accountability.

Additionally, it is important to take care of yourself while supporting your loved one. Dealing with a loved one's alcohol abuse can be emotionally draining and stressful. Ensure that you have a strong support system in place, whether through friends, family, or a support group for loved ones of addicts. Taking care of your own well-being will enable you to provide more effective support to your loved one.

Remember that each person's journey with alcohol abuse is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery. What works for one person may not work for another. Be adaptable and willing to try different approaches to find what works best for your loved one.

Help your loved one seek professional help and treatment

Alcoholism is a chronic disease that negatively impacts brain chemistry and can lead to several financial, health, and relationship issues. It is essential to recognize the signs of alcoholism in your loved ones and help them seek professional help. Here are some ways to support them in getting the treatment they need:

Educate Yourself on Alcoholism and Treatment Options:

Learn about the signs and symptoms of alcoholism, as well as the various treatment approaches. Understand that alcoholism is a complex condition that affects people differently. Educate yourself on the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of alcohol dependence to better support your loved one.

Encourage Open Conversations:

Create a safe and non-judgmental space for your loved one to express their feelings and concerns. Avoid lecturing or shaming them for their drinking habits. Instead, approach the topic from a place of concern and compassion. Share your observations and express your desire to support them in seeking help.

Offer to Accompany Them to Appointments:

Offer to accompany your loved one to appointments with healthcare professionals or support groups. This can help reduce any anxiety or fears they may have about seeking help and provide them with emotional support throughout the process.

Provide Practical Support:

Assist your loved one with practical tasks, such as researching and identifying suitable treatment centers, making appointments, and handling logistics. Offer to drive them to and from appointments or treatment sessions if needed.

Encourage Commitment to Treatment:

Support your loved one in sticking to their treatment plan. Encourage them to attend all appointments and follow the recommendations of their healthcare team. Help them identify triggers and develop strategies to cope with cravings and avoid relapse.

Seek Support for Yourself:

Caring for an alcoholic loved one can be emotionally draining and challenging. Seek support for yourself by joining support groups for family members or caregivers of people struggling with alcoholism. Taking care of yourself will enable you to provide better support to your loved one throughout their recovery journey.

Remember, recovery from alcoholism is a journey, and relapses may occur. Be patient, offer ongoing encouragement, and celebrate even the smallest achievements. With your support, your loved one can take the first steps towards healing and reclaiming their life from the grip of alcoholism.

Frequently asked questions