If you are concerned you may have a drinking problem, it is important to know how to recognize the signs of alcohol abuse. Accepting that you may be an alcoholic can be difficult, but it is the first step in taking back control over your life.
Keep reading to learn more about alcohol addiction and take our alcoholism test. If you are ready to stop drinking alcohol, we are here to help. Puget Sound Recovery Centers can help you get started in alcohol rehab and on the path to recovery as soon as today. Addiction treatment is possible with the right help!
What Does It Mean to be an Alcoholic?
The term “alcoholic,” now more often referred to as Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), is a chronic condition. It is characterized by having an unhealthy relationship with alcohol. Those who struggle with alcoholism cannot control their drinking despite negative consequences.
According to the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 29.5 million people ages 12 and older had an AUD in the past year. Unfortunately, these numbers have only continued to grow over the years.
The spread of alcohol addiction is largely due to this substance’s wide social acceptance and easy accessibility. Because of how common alcohol is in social and even private settings, it is hard to recognize when one’s drinking may be becoming problematic.
What Causes Alcohol Addiction?
There is no single cause of alcohol addiction. Instead, there is often a combination of factors that can increase a person’s risk. These factors can be broadly categorized into biological, environmental, social, and psychological factors. These include:
- Biological factors: Genetics, brain chemistry, and metabolism can influence how the body processes alcohol and how it affects the brain’s reward system.
- Environmental factors: A person’s upbringing, social circle, and access to alcohol can make them more likely to develop problems with alcohol.
- Social factors: Cultural attitudes toward alcohol, peer pressure, and social stress can make it difficult for people to cut back on their drinking, even if they want to.
- Psychological factors: Anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions can make people more likely to self-medicate with alcohol.
To understand how alcohol addiction happens, it is important to know how alcohol affects the body. Alcohol’s addictiveness stems from its powerful influence on the brain’s reward system. Alcohol triggers the release of dopamine and endorphins.
These chemicals create feelings of pleasure and satisfaction, reinforcing the desire to drink again to experience those positive feelings. Over time, the body can become dependent on alcohol to experience pleasure or even feel normal. Once this happens, it can feel impossible to stop drinking on your own.
Reach Out For Help With Addiction
Are you or a loved one struggling with addiction?
Royal Life Centers at Puget Sound is here to help you recover. Because we care.
Am I an Alcoholic? Take the Quiz
If you are concerned about your drinking habits, it may be time to determine whether you may be suffering from an AUD. We have compiled a list of a few simple questions to help you determine if you may be struggling with alcohol abuse.
You can take our “Am I an alcoholic quiz” by answering the questions below:
- Do you hide your drinking from your loved ones?
- Do you feel like you are in control of your drinking?
- Do you think you can stop drinking at any time you choose?
- Do you find yourself drinking in appropriate situations, such as while at work, school, or while driving?
- Do you use alcohol to manage stress or other difficult emotions?
- Do you often experience hangovers or other negative consequences as a result of your drinking?
- Do you struggle to keep up with your regular responsibilities due to drinking?
- Do you often find yourself thinking about when your next drink will be?
- Do you feel panic at the thought of being unable to access alcohol?
- Do you struggle to enjoy yourself or have fun without alcohol?
If you answered yes to three or more of these questions, then it is likely that you are struggling with a drinking problem. It is important to understand that this is not something to feel ashamed of. Alcohol addiction is a serious and often misunderstood condition.
At Puget Sound Recovery Centers, we offer alcohol treatment and support without judgment. At our facility, you will be able to recover with peace of mind knowing you are getting the best help possible.
What Are the Dangers of Alcohol Addiction?
Alcohol addiction is a serious condition that can have a devastating impact on a person’s life. It can harm not only their health but their relationships and livelihood as well. Some of the most common risks of both short and long-term alcohol abuse include:
- Health Risks: Chronic heavy drinking can damage almost every organ in the body. This includes the liver, heart, brain, and pancreas. It can also increase the risk of developing cancer, high blood pressure, stroke, and diabetes.
- Mental Health Problems: Alcohol addiction can cause and worsen several mental health conditions. The most common include anxiety, depression, and even psychosis.
- Social Problems: Alcohol addiction can damage relationships with family and friends. It can also lead to job loss, financial problems, and legal trouble.
- Increased Risk of Accidents, Injuries, and Violence: Alcohol impairs judgment and coordination. This can increase the risk of accidents, injuries, and violence.
If you or someone you know is alcohol dependent, there is help available. The second you start to notice the signs of alcohol abuse, it’s time to get help. At Puget Sound Recovery Centers, we can help you overcome addiction and live a healthy, productive life.
Alcoholism Treatment at Puget Sound Recovery
If you are feeling concerned after taking our “Am I an Alcoholic?” test, know that you are in the best place to get the help you need. Puget Sound Recovery offers comprehensive and effective alcohol rehab services to those struggling with AUD. Substance abuse is treatable with the right help.
From detox to aftercare, we are here to support you throughout every step of your recovery journey. You will have access to a variety of treatment and support services during your time with us, including (but not limited to):
- Individual and group therapy
- Art therapy
- Sober studios
- Medical care
- Full-service nutritional program
- Recovery activities
Being alcohol dependent is no way to go through life. The risk of developing an alcohol use disorder (AUD) is higher for those with mental health disorders. To learn more about our alcohol withdrawal and addiction treatment program, all you have to do is call us at our 24/7 admissions line. We can help you get past the symptoms of alcohol detox and into the substance abuse program that can help. Our addiction and mental health treatment providers will answer any questions you may have. If you or a loved one suffers from alcoholism and are ready to start your recovery from alcohol use disorders, reach out to us today!
