Lena Savoie
Alcoholism, also known as alcohol addiction, alcohol misuse, or alcohol dependence, is a chronic and potentially life-threatening condition characterized by a person's inability to control their drinking. While it can be difficult to spot the signs of alcoholism, especially in those who drink in secret, there are some tell-tale signs that may indicate a person is struggling with alcohol use disorder. These include impaired control over alcohol use, giving increasing priority to alcohol, and experiencing unwanted physical or mental effects from drinking, such as withdrawal symptoms and increased tolerance. Additionally, behavioural changes such as anger, reckless or dangerous behaviour, and a drop in motivation can also be indicators of alcoholism. If you suspect that a loved one may be displaying signs of alcoholism, it is important to approach them with empathy and support, and encourage them to seek professional help.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Hiding alcohol consumption | Secret drinking, lying about how much they drink, brushing teeth to mask the smell, hiding empty bottles |
| High tolerance | Able to consume multiple drinks without feeling drunk |
| Inability to stop drinking | Drinking more than intended, unable to uphold boundaries, drinking in inappropriate places |
| Impact on health | Physical and mental health issues, including withdrawal symptoms |
| Impact on relationships | Neglecting responsibilities, relationship problems, risky behaviour |
| Personality changes | Increased aggression, reduced inhibitions, loss of interest in previous hobbies |
| Priority given to drinking | Planning life around drinking, drinking takes precedence over daily activities |
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What You'll Learn
Secret drinking
People with drinking problems often become adept at concealing or minimising their alcohol consumption. They may hide their drinking to protect their loved ones from worry or to avoid feeling shame or guilt about their actions. Some may be in denial about their drinking problem, while others may be in self-preservation mode, reluctant to confront their struggles. It is important to remain non-judgmental and empathetic when approaching a loved one about their secret drinking.
Secret drinkers may exhibit common addiction symptoms, such as defensiveness and irritability when confronted about their drinking. They may make excuses for their behaviour, such as blaming work stress or comparing themselves to others. Secret drinkers may also become less responsible, neglecting their responsibilities, avoiding work, or neglecting personal hygiene and appearance. They may frequently lie to hide their drinking habits and exhibit strong cravings for alcohol.
Additionally, secret drinkers may experience a reduction in inhibitions and impulse control. They may engage in risky behaviours while under the influence, such as making reckless decisions or becoming aggressive. Secret drinkers often have a high tolerance for alcohol and may drink secretly during the day or at work. They may also exhibit physical and psychological changes, such as ill-health, disengagement, and changes in behaviour and habits.
If you suspect that a loved one is struggling with secret drinking, it is important to address the issue early on and offer support. Residential clinics and treatment centres can provide advice and assistance to concerned family members and colleagues. It is crucial to have open and honest conversations with the person and encourage them to seek help without shame or guilt.
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Physical and psychological changes
Alcoholism is a brain disorder fuelled by unhealthy relationships with alcohol. Alcohol is an addictive drug that impacts both the body and brain, from functionality to health. Alcoholism is a chronic and potentially life-threatening condition characterised by a person’s inability to control their drinking. Alcoholism is also known as alcohol addiction, alcohol misuse, or alcohol dependence.
Alcoholism can cause a wide range of physical and psychological changes. Alcohol is a toxic chemical that can cause many physical health impairments, including brain damage, liver damage, kidney damage, malnutrition, heart failure, and immunology problems resulting in various diseases or infections. The risks of other physical problems are dramatically increased with heavy abuse. Alcohol dependence also causes physical withdrawal symptoms when a person stops drinking, including cravings, tremors, nausea, sweating, anxiety, depression, delirium, hallucinations, or suicidal ideations.
Psychologically, continued drinking damages neurons and depletes natural dopamine production, leading to a wide range of psychological reactions. Alcohol can alter a person's behaviour, causing anger, reckless or dangerous behaviour, and a drop in motivation. They might lose interest in things they used to love or struggle to motivate themselves at work. A person struggling with an alcohol issue may undergo personality changes while under the influence. For example, reserved individuals could become loud and boisterous, and people who are typically closed off could become an open book.
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Denial and defensiveness
Alcoholism, or alcohol dependence, is a chronic and potentially life-threatening condition characterised by a person's inability to control their drinking. It is a brain disorder fuelled by unhealthy relationships with alcohol. Alcohol is an addictive drug that impacts both the body and brain, from functionality to health. Alcoholism can be a complicated disorder to live with and spot, as some people can hide their symptoms, while others may encounter mild symptoms.
People with alcoholism may go to great lengths to conceal their drinking habits. They may lie about their alcohol consumption, brush their teeth frequently to mask the smell, or hide empty bottles and stockpile alcohol in discreet locations. These actions can indicate a sense of embarrassment or shame about their drinking, a deepening alcohol dependence, or an attempt to protect loved ones from worrying.
The decision to hide their drinking may seem logical to the person struggling with alcoholism. They may worry about how they are perceived and want to avoid judgement, consequences, and interventions. They might also wish to protect their friends and family from the realities of their problem or be in self-preservation mode, struggling to admit their lack of control.
Confronting a loved one about their drinking can be challenging. It is important to approach them with care, avoiding guilt or shame, and showing love and concern. Offering support and empathy, rather than judgement, can help create a safe environment for them to acknowledge their problem and seek help.
If you believe a loved one is exhibiting signs of alcoholism, it is crucial to educate yourself, maintain a clean and supportive environment, and be prepared for setbacks on their road to recovery.
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Withdrawal symptoms
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe, and they typically begin within six to 24 hours of stopping or significantly decreasing heavy, long-term alcohol use. The severity and length of alcohol withdrawal vary based on several factors, such as the amount of organ damage and the presence of other medical problems.
Mild symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include anxiety, nervousness, irritability, excessive sweating, an upset stomach, headache, insomnia, and mild mood changes. These symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and typically appear within the first six to 12 hours after the last drink. They tend to peak within 24 to 72 hours but can last for several days or even weeks.
Moderate symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include hallucinations, which may occur within 24 hours of the last drink. Heart palpitations, increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, and hyperthermia (high body temperature) are also indicators of moderate withdrawal. These symptoms can be dangerous and typically occur within the first 24 to 72 hours after the last drink.
Severe alcohol withdrawal, known as delirium tremens, can be life-threatening. It includes more intense versions of the above symptoms, along with tremors (shakiness) of the hands or other body parts. Delirium tremens typically occurs within 24 to 72 hours after the last drink, and the risk of seizures is highest during this period.
Prolonged withdrawal symptoms can persist for weeks or even months after the initial withdrawal period. These symptoms include insomnia, rapid and prolonged mood changes, and fatigue. Some individuals may also experience health problems such as liver, heart, and nervous system issues if they continue to drink heavily.
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Relationship and social problems
Alcoholism can have a detrimental impact on relationships and social life. Alcoholics may find themselves neglecting their responsibilities, such as work or family obligations, and giving up important social, recreational, or work activities in favour of drinking. This can lead to feelings of resentment and strain in relationships with friends, family, and colleagues.
Alcoholics may also experience changes in their personality and behaviour when under the influence. For example, usually reserved individuals may become loud and boisterous, or even aggressive and violent. This can be harmful to those around them and negatively impact their relationships. Alcoholics may also make risky decisions while drinking, further damaging their relationships and social standing.
The secretive nature of alcoholism can also contribute to relationship and social problems. Alcoholics may go to great lengths to hide their drinking habits, such as lying about their consumption, adding alcohol to innocuous drinks, or hiding empty bottles. This secrecy can create a sense of distrust and strain in relationships. It can also lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, as alcoholics may withdraw from social activities to conceal their drinking.
Additionally, the financial strain associated with alcoholism can impact relationships. Alcoholics may spend excessive amounts of money on alcohol, leading to financial difficulties and creating tension in relationships. They may also prioritise drinking over financial responsibilities, such as bills or loan payments, further exacerbating relationship problems.
The impact of alcoholism on relationships and social life can be significant and far-reaching. It is important to seek help and support to address these issues and improve an alcoholic's overall well-being.
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Frequently asked questions
Alcoholism is a complex disorder that can manifest in many different ways, and it can be difficult to spot. However, some common signs and symptoms include:
- Hiding alcohol consumption or concealing the amount consumed.
- Increased tolerance to alcohol, needing to drink more to get the same effect.
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as cravings, tremors, nausea, sweating, anxiety or depression when trying to quit.
- Neglecting responsibilities, work or family obligations, and experiencing relationship problems.
Alcoholism can cause behavioural changes such as:
- Reckless or dangerous behaviour.
- Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed and a drop in motivation.
- Becoming defensive, irritable or hostile when confronted about their drinking.
- Changes in personality while under the influence, such as becoming more loud or open.
Alcohol is a toxic chemical that can cause various physical impairments, including:
- Brain damage.
- Liver damage.
- Kidney damage.
- Malnutrition.
- Heart failure.
- Immunology problems, increasing the risk of various diseases or infections.
If you suspect that someone you know may be struggling with alcoholism, it is important to approach them with empathy and non-judgement. Offer your support and encourage them to seek help from a healthcare professional or self-help groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. Remember that denial is common, and the person may be defensive about their drinking habits. It is crucial to choose the right moment to talk to them and ensure you are both in a calm mood.
