A man in recovery from alcoholism has gained widespread attention by sharing insights on the true distinctions between a ‘normal drinker’ and an individual battling addiction, emphasizing that it’s not about the contents of the drink.
Alastair Stewart took to social media to share his observations, noting that while two individuals may appear identical from the outside when holding a drink, internally, their mental processes and emotions can be vastly different.
He says the first noticeable difference emerges with the initial sip – a typical drinker can have a drink, feel content, and move on without much thought.
Conversely, for someone with alcoholism, that first drink triggers an immediate craving, their brain becomes highly active, and the idea of stopping becomes incredibly difficult.
Stewart, who uses the handle alastairclearminds on Instagram, elaborated: “A normal drinker thinks, ‘If I drink, fine. If I don’t, that’s fine too’.
“An alcoholic is already planning – how much money they need, where they’ll buy more if supplies run out, and excuses to justify it. The night hasn’t started, but their mind is already consumed.”
When confronted with challenges, the differences become even more apparent – a normal drinker might seek comfort through conversation, tears, or finding solutions. In contrast, an alcoholic often turns to alcohol as a first response.
“It becomes their medicine, their coping mechanism, their escape – but it only deepens the pain they’re running from,” he continued.
The following morning reveals more contrasts. Stewart described how a normal drinker might wake up feeling a bit off, laugh it off, and continue with their day, whereas an alcoholic typically wakes up burdened with guilt, shame, and regret, vowing to change – until the craving reemerges, perpetuating the cycle.
The last distinction he highlights is the ongoing mental negotiation.
“A normal drinker doesn’t think about alcohol outside of the moment,” Stewart explained.
“An alcoholic wakes up thinking, ‘When can I drink?’ They go to bed thinking, ‘Tomorrow will be different.’ Their mind is constantly negotiating, hiding, and planning around alcohol.
“The difference isn’t about how much is in the glass – it’s about the pain, obsession, and mental prison that hides behind the drink. That’s what most people never see.”
If you’ve been affected by addiction and want to speak to someone in confidence, you can call American Addiction Centers on (888) 324-0595, available 24/7, or contact them through their website.