The answer to the question, “Am I an alcoholic?” is simpler than you think. If you or someone else has noticed that you are experiencing multiple ongoing problems that are associated with your drinking, then you may be an alcoholic.
With that in mind, it is essential to distinguish the differences between alcoholism and alcohol abuse. More importantly, it is vital to identify when you have any problem with alcohol and do something about it right away.
Let’s take a closer look at the signs of alcoholism and how to tell if you have a problem. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact BoardPrep Recovery Center®. We provide the help you need to overcome addiction at our alcohol addiction treatment center in Tampa, FL.
What is Alcohol Abuse?
You’re abusing alcohol by drinking several drinks in one sitting to the point where you’re completely blitzed. You’re drunk and unable to function – especially drive a car. Alcohol abuse is binge drinking.
You don’t have an addiction if you’re just getting drunk occasionally. It just means that you abuse alcohol occasionally. And, while abusing alcohol is never good, it is not necessarily an indicator of ongoing abuse or addiction.
Am I An Alcoholic?
Alcohol addiction often includes alcohol abuse. However, it goes much further than that. In addiction, you feel as though you need to drink all the time. In most cases, when you do drink, you drink uncontrollably day after day. Eventually, your mind and body develop a dependency on alcohol. You feel as though you cannot function or get through the day without it.
Your addiction to alcohol inevitably affects other areas of your life, such as your family, marriage, work, school, or social activities. Your inability to limit your drinks or even function in any setting without a drink becomes evidence to those around you. People start to notice your problem and may even approach you about it.
Finally, you will notice that you have an addiction if you experience moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms every time you try to quit. This is when you need an alcohol detox center.
Signs of addiction may include:
- Drinking more alcohol than intended
- Unsuccessful attempts at quitting
- Being consumed with alcohol – feeling like you “just gotta have it.”
- Interference in daily life or relationships
- Continuing to drink regardless of the consequences
- Continuing to drink regardless of your health
You may also experience heightened anxiety, depression, anger, reclusiveness, or even violent tendencies. You’re drunk and negative aspects of your personality are popping up.
Treatment for Alcoholism is Available
BoardPrep offers treatment for alcoholism, including:
- Medical detox
- Quasi-residential treatment
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Outpatient treatment
Many of the treatments that we offer are comprehensive, meaning that we incorporate a wide range of therapies and treatments to address your addiction and other mental health issues you may be dealing with. If you find yourself asking, “Am I an alcoholic?”, then call us today at 866.796.4720. We can help you find the answers.
