Take Our “Am I Addicted to Alcohol?” Quiz — Uncover the Truth
It can be difficult to tell whether you’ve become addicted to alcohol. With a loaded menu of specialty cocktails at every restaurant, the recent rise of binge drinking, and what seems like a bottomless mimosa brunch special at every turn in any city, it’s become even more difficult for people to determine when they’ve crossed the line. Alcohol is enjoyed by many worldwide as a way to relax, celebrate milestones and events in life, or simply unwind after a long day. This drug is so widely used that most people barely give it a second thought, but alcohol can be extremely addictive and dangerous when used in excess.
If you’re questioning whether you may be addicted to alcohol, it’s important to take an honest look at your drinking habits and answer the following questions in our “Am I Addicted to Alcohol” quiz honestly.
Understanding the Truth About Alcohol
Alcohol is a depressant made from fermented grains, fruits, or vegetables. It can be found in many different forms, including beer, wine, liquor, and mixed drinks. When consumed, alcohol enters the bloodstream and travels to the brain, where it alters moods and emotions. This experience makes drinking alcohol pleasurable, incentivizing many to drink more as an escape from reality. Over time, the body builds up a tolerance to alcohol, which means that the feeling of euphoria or relaxation is not as strong as it once was. People who have a tolerance for alcohol may drink more often to reach that same level of euphoria, which is extremely dangerous and can lead to addiction.
Signs of an Alcohol Addiction
A Strong Craving for Alcohol
If you find yourself constantly thinking about or wanting to drink, it is likely that you have an addiction.
Drinking in Secret
People who are addicted to alcohol often try to hide their drinking from others. This is because they are ashamed or afraid of being judged.
Neglecting Responsibilities
An addicted person will often begin to neglect important responsibilities in order to drink. This can include things like going to work, taking care of children, or completing important tasks.
Continued Drinking Despite Negative Consequences
If you or someone you know is continuing to drink even though it is causing them harm, there is likely a problem. This could include things like health problems, financial trouble, or legal issues.
Blackouts From Drinking
We’re not talking about that one time you blacked out in college and can’t remember what happened. If you are regularly blacking out from drinking, it is a serious sign that you need help.
Missing Out on Social Obligations
If you are regularly choosing to drink instead of spending time with friends or family, you may have a problem.
The Need to Drink Larger Amounts of Alcohol to Feel the Same Effects
If you find that you need to drink more and more alcohol to feel the desired effects, there is a good chance you are addicted.
Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms
Like drugs, alcohol can cause withdrawal symptoms when a person stops drinking. This could include things like seizures and shaky hands.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs, it is important to seek help. Alcohol addiction can be extremely damaging and dangerous, but it is treatable. Many resources are available to help you or your loved one recover from alcohol addiction.
Treatment Options for Alcohol Addiction
Being treated for an addiction to alcohol is essential if the individual wants to be able to stop drinking for good. There are many different treatment options for alcohol addiction. Some will work better for certain people than others, so it is important to find the right treatment for you. Some common treatments for alcohol addiction include:
Detoxification
Detoxification is the process of ridding your body of alcohol and some of its harmful effects. This can be done using medications and therapy. Detoxification isn’t always necessary, but it is often recommended.
Therapy
There are many different types of therapy that can be used to treat alcohol addiction. Some common therapies include cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and family therapy.
Medications
A few different medications can be used to help treat alcohol addiction. These include medications that decrease cravings, decrease the effects of alcohol, or help to prevent relapse.
Support Groups
People who are recovering from alcohol addiction often find help through support groups. Support groups allow people to meet with others who are currently recovering. They can offer advice and support to one another.
Rehabilitation Centers
Some people need more intensive treatment. This is where rehabilitation centers come in. These centers offer a variety of treatments, including detoxification, therapy, and medications.
If you are struggling with alcohol addiction, it is important to seek help. There are many different resources and treatment options available to help your journey to recovery. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You are not alone.
Alcohol Addiction FAQs
Help for Alcohol Addiction
Many find comfort in knowing that they are not alone in their drinking problem. Having someone to relate to can make recovery seem possible. If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for alcohol addiction treatment advice.
