It’s not always easy to tell if someone has a drinking problem. In fact, there are many cases where by the time someone is obviously intoxicated, they have already developed a drinking problem.
The good news is there are early signs of alcoholism that family and friends can look out for in order to get their loved one the help they need before it’s too late. Before you get an Alcohol test, here are 10 early signs of alcoholism to look out for:
1. They drink more than they used to.
Granted, you’d have to be pretty familiar with someone’s drinking habits to notice this early sign of alcoholism, but it’s still worth mentioning.
If you notice that someone is starting to drink more alcohol than they used to, it could be a sign that they’re developing a problem. For example, if they used to have one drink at social gatherings but now they’re having two or three, it’s possible that they’re starting to abuse alcohol.
Of course, it could also just mean they enjoy drinking more than they used to. But if you notice this change in their drinking habits along with some of the other early signs of alcoholism, it’s worth being concerned.
2. They drink alone more often.
One of the early signs of alcoholism is drinking alone more often. If someone you know used to only drink with others, but now they’re starting to drink by themselves, it’s a red flag.
People who abuse alcohol often start to isolate themselves from friends and family. They may start to drink alone because they’re embarrassed about how much they’re drinking or because they don’t want anyone to know.
3. They’re missing work or school.
Do you know someone who’s suddenly missing a lot of work or school? It could be a sign that they’re struggling with alcoholism.
People who have a drinking problem often start to miss work or school because they’re hungover or still intoxicated from the night before. In some cases, they may even start showing up to work or school drunk.
This is a more obvious sign that someone has a drinking problem, but it’s still important to be aware of. If you notice that someone is missing work or school more often than usual, it could be a sign that they have an alcohol abuse problem.
4. They’re always talking about drinking.
If someone can’t seem to go a day without talking about alcohol, it might be a sign that they’re thinking about it too much. It’s normal to enjoy a drink now and then, but if someone is always talking about how they can’t wait to have a drink or how they need a drink to relax, it could be a sign of alcoholism.
Of course, this early sign of alcoholism is a bit tricky. Some people may just enjoy talking about alcohol because they like the taste of it or because they enjoy going out drinking with friends.
5. They get into trouble when they drink.
Alcohol causes a loss of judgment, which can lead people to do things they wouldn’t normally do when they’re sober. If you know someone who’s getting into trouble when they drink – whether it’s fighting, getting arrested, or damaging property – it’s a sign that they have a drinking problem.
People with alcoholism often don’t realize how much trouble they’re getting into when they’re drunk. They may think they’re just having a good time or that they can handle their alcohol, but the reality is that they’re putting themselves and others in danger.
Related: A Deadly Combo – Alcohol Plus Other Drugs Ups Number of Impaired Drivers
6. Frequent binge drinking.
Binge drinking is defined as drinking four or more alcoholic beverages in a short period of time. Instead of a few drinks here and there, people who binge drink often consume large amounts of alcohol in one sitting.
Typically, a person who binges is trying to get drunk as quickly as possible. This can be extremely dangerous, as it increases the risk of alcohol poisoning and accidents.
7. Saying they’ll stop drinking but not following through.
The next time you see someone drinking, pay attention to what they say about alcohol. Do they talk about how they’re going to stop drinking or cut back? If so, it could be a sign that they know they have a problem, but they’re not ready to admit it yet.
People who abuse alcohol often make promises to themselves or others that they’ll stop drinking, but they never follow through. In some cases, they may even try to quit on their own, but they always end up going back to drinking.
8. Drinking in secret.
People struggling with alcoholism often start to drink in secret. They may sneak drinks, lie about how much they’re drinking, or drink in places where they’re unlikely to get caught.
This is a sign that they know their drinking is a problem, and they’re trying to hide it from others. The reason for all the secrecy is usually shame or embarrassment. They know they shouldn’t be drinking as much as they are, so they try to keep it a secret.
9. Occasional blackouts
Occasional blackouts are one of the most dangerous early signs of alcoholism. A blackout is when you drink so much that you can’t remember what happened while intoxicated.
Most people who black out are not drinking with the intention of forgetting what happened. In fact, they may not even realize they’re blacking out until they wake up the next day and realize they have no memory of the night before.
Blackouts can be extremely dangerous, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. If you know someone who has blacked out from drinking, it’s a sign that they need help.
10. Losing interest in other activities.
While it’s normal to enjoy a drink now and then, alcohol should not be the only thing someone is interested in. One early sign of alcoholism is losing interest in activities that used to bring joy.
For example, someone who used to love going hiking may no longer be interested in it because they’d rather drink. Or, someone who was once passionate about their job may start calling out sick frequently because they’d rather drink at home.
What can you do to help someone with alcoholism?
If you think someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, there are a few things you can do to help. The most important thing is to talk to them about it. Let them know that you’re concerned and offer your support.
They may not be ready to admit they have a problem, but your support can make a difference. You can also offer to help them find resources, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, or even take a simple Drug Test (like Marijuana tests or alcohol tests) in the privacy of their home.
If they’re not ready to get help, there’s still a lot you can do. You can be a supportive friend and try to keep them from drinking in harmful situations. For example, if they’re about to drive after drinking, you can offer to drive them home.
You can also help by keeping an eye on them and intervening if they start to drink too much. Sometimes, it may be necessary to call the police or emergency services may be necessary if they’re in danger of harming themselves or others.
Conclusion
Alcoholism is a serious problem that can be difficult to spot in the early stages. If you think someone you know may be struggling with alcoholism, it’s important to talk to them about it. The sooner they get help, the better. You can also get Home Test Kits to help get you started on recovery.
