Have you ever asked yourself the question, am I an alcoholic? Addictions, like alcoholism, isn’t always as obvious as it is portrayed on television or in the movies. Not everyone suffering from alcoholism lives in a homeless camp, or under a bridge, in fact, many of them likely works alongside you every day. Granted, many people who are even mildly abusing alcohol, over time, will no longer be working beside you; it is a progressive disease.
Some high-functioning alcoholics can maintain daily responsibilities and even succeed in life until drinking catches up with them. The consequences for those folks, who seemingly can manage alcoholism and life, are also generally the most severe. Regardless of where you are on the scale, however, it is of vital importance to seek help now. That also means seeking answers to the question, am I an alcoholic?
Finding Answers to the ‘Am I an Alcoholic?’ Question
We drink at parties, special occasions, celebrations, fine restaurants, and for a thousand other reasons. It is not only accepted but considered normal if not expected behavior. So when does it cross the line? When do you know when you have crossed over from being a freely social drinker, for example, to someone who has begun abusing alcohol?
Fortunately, there are some tell-tale signs that we can recognize. Alcoholism is a disease that has been around a long time, and the one good thing about that is that we have had many years to understand what it is and how it works. We have learned things like what the early signs look like and how to define alcoholic behavior.
The Signs of Alcoholism
There are a variety of signs and red flags that are indicators that a problem exists. Although everyone will experience and exhibit a different combination of signs, any can warrant concern or indicate an alcohol problem. Some other questions to ask yourself if you suspect you or a loved one is an alcoholic include:
- Have you recognized severe mood swings or noticed irritability after a prolonged time without alcohol?
- Do you have temporary blackouts or suffer from short-term memory loss since you have started drinking?
- Do you find it easier to go out and socialize with the help of alcohol, or do you drink to deal with stress?
- Are you starting to ignore responsibilities for the sake of drinking events or alcohol?
- Are you hiding your drinking habits or drinking alone?
These are a few of the signs that deserve a second look and that demand honest answers. This is also the time to be transparent with yourself. The truth is, if you are honestly asking the question, am I an alcoholic, then you know it is time to get help. You may or may not be an alcoholic, but if you’re asking the question, something is going on, something that needs attention.
Getting Answers and Help at Recovery Ranch PA
Are you worried about your drinking habits? Have you asked that question? If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or if you have questions, there are answers. Help is available. Getting that help and getting answers to your questions is why we are here, and we can help. We understand that these aren’t easy questions, but these are the questions that lead to the answers you need.
The help you need and the life you seek is closer than you think. But, it begins by making a call. If you are ready to get real answers and find real help, then call the Recovery Ranch PA at 717.969.9126, because you deserve answers and addiction demands help. Get the answers and help you need, and get on the road to recovery and healing today.