Warning: This article contains discussion of alcoholism which some readers may find distressing.
During the holiday season, many of us find ourselves indulging in excess, whether it’s savoring an abundance of mince pies or frequently toasting to the festivities.
If the celebrations of Christmas and New Year have you questioning your drinking habits, January presents an ideal opportunity to reassess your alcohol consumption and consider making a positive change.
While enjoying a drink-filled December doesn’t automatically categorize you as an alcoholic, recognizing some of the warning signs can help you determine when it’s time to cut back and adjust your perspective on drinking.
Alastair Stewart, a mental health advocate and recovering alcoholic, has provided insights into signs that your drinking may be veering towards addiction. One such indicator is contemplating your next drink before finishing your current one.
Stewart shared on Instagram: “Alcoholism often starts quietly, disguised as ‘just social drinking’. But the small differences add up — and that’s when lives begin to unravel.”
He outlined seven signs of addiction based on his experience as a recovering alcoholic for his 200,000 followers, illustrating the distinction between social drinkers and those who struggle with alcoholism.
Choosing to have a drink is normal, but if you experience an overwhelming urge to get intoxicated that doesn’t fade, it could be a sign of a developing addiction.
Stewart highlighted the difference: “A social drinker can take it or leave it. An alcoholic feels a pull they can’t switch off.”
While enjoying a night out with drinks is typical, if you’re preoccupied with planning your next drink as you’re finishing the first, it might be time to rethink your approach.
Stewart noted: “A social drinker might enjoy a night out. An alcoholic is already planning the next drink before the first one’s finished.”
If your go-to solution for a bad day or emotional pain is to drink until you’re numb, you might be using alcohol as an escape rather than facing your issues.
Stewart explained: “A social drinker drinks to celebrate. An alcoholic drinks to escape pain, numb feelings, or silence their mind.”
When drinking becomes your primary desire, you may find yourself making excuses to extend your drinking sessions or be the one persuading others to keep the night going.
The mental health advocate commented: “A social drinker knows when enough is enough. An alcoholic always finds a reason why ‘tonight doesn’t count’.”
Drinking regularly can lead to a gradual decline in numerous aspects of your life, and an addiction to alcohol might not be evident until significant consequences arise.
Stewart contrasted: “A social drinker rarely sees life consequences. An alcoholic slowly loses relationships, health, money, and trust.”
Struggling through the day is common for many, but relying on alcohol just to make it to bedtime may suggest you’re moving beyond social drinking.
He noted: “A social drinker chooses when to drink. An alcoholic feels like they need it to function.”
If you find yourself concealing your drinking habits, it might indicate an underlying acknowledgment that your behavior is problematic. ‘Normal’ drinkers typically don’t feel the need to hide their actions.
Stewart stated: “A social drinker has no need to hide. An alcoholic often lies, hides bottles, and pretends ‘everything is fine’.”
If addiction has impacted your life and you need to talk to someone in confidence, you can reach American Addiction Centers at (888) 324-0595, available 24/7, or connect with them through their website.