When a person drinks excessive amounts of alcohol despite the negative consequences, he or she has a drinking problem. A person with a drinking problem cannot control how much they drink and continues to drink after having too much. This uncontrolled behavior can develop into an alcohol addiction.
Telling your loved one about their drinking problem can be very difficult. It is common for a person to be in denial. When you express your concerns to your loved one, he or she might become defensive and angry.
Here are some signs your loved one has a drinking problem:
- Drinking more than intended
- Inability to cut back on drinking
- Spending a lot of time thinking about alcohol and the next drink
- Missing work, school, or other important activities
- Having relationship problems due to drinking alcohol
- Spending a lot of time recovering from the effects of alcohol
If you want to help a loved one who has a drinking problem, there are some “Do’s” and “Don’ts” to be aware of before approaching him or her with your concerns.
- Never use shameful, demeaning, or negative language
- Do not threaten or plead
- Do not lecture
- Do not use labels when talking about the problem
- Express your concern for his or her health
- Offer to see an addiction counselor with him or her
- Use “I” statements to express how his or her drinking affects you
Sometimes people are not even aware they have a drinking problem. Many people with depression, anxiety, stress, or PTSD turn to alcohol as a way to escape the symptoms of their mental health condition. The individual can feel guilty, ashamed, or have low self-esteem.
Attend a support group meeting with your loved one. Learn more about addiction and listen to people share their experiences with alcohol addiction. Connect with others in the group. This can be encouraging to your loved one and he or she can establish new, sober friendships.
If you or a loved one is struggling with an alcohol addiction, get help today. Cypress Lakes Lodge specializes in treatment for addiction and addictive behaviors with a focus on healing the mind, body, and spirit. The staff at Cypress Lakes Lodge is compassionate and committed to the overall health of every client. Do not wait. Recovery is possible and you can embrace a new, substance-free lifestyle.
Cypress Lakes Lodge specializes in addiction treatment and is located in a serene, remote, lush-green, oxygen enriched environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy and offers yoga and meditation for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 409-331-2204