Am I an alcoholic? That’s a question that many people have to ask themselves. Ultimately, only you can answer that with honesty. Here are a few ways to tell whether you’re an alcoholic as well as what steps you can take if you are.
Does Your Tolerance for Alcohol Keep Changing?
One of the clearest signs of alcoholism is an increase in alcohol tolerance. A change in tolerance is a normal response to chronic or excessive alcohol consumption. The more you drink, the more your body reacts to alcohol. Over time, you’ll need more alcohol just to feel the same effects as you did before.
Do You Feel Bad if You Don’t Drink For a Day?
Many people believe that they aren’t alcoholics because they can skip a day of drinking if they need to. It’s important to ask yourself how you really feel if you don’t drink for a day, though. If you feel unwell, moody, grumpy or you have a headache, then you’re probably going through withdrawal symptoms.
Feeling bad when you cut back on drinking or skip alcohol for a day means that your body has become dependent on the substance. If you were to go two or three days, these withdrawal symptoms would become stronger and stronger. In short, these are signals that your body is very much dependent on alcohol.
Do You Crave Your First Drink of the Day?
Looking forward to a glass of wine on a Friday night is one thing, but you might also experience cravings for that first drink. If you’re intently focused on your first drink of the day, and this happens most days, then your body is revealing its dependence.
When a person struggles with substance abuse, he or she can become focused on that first daily use. If you’re unable to focus on anything else, then it’s a sign that alcohol has taken over your life.
Are There Consequences to Alcohol That You’re Ignoring?
Alcohol abuse can often cause a long list of negative consequences. If you continue to drink despite these consequences, then you’re likely an alcoholic. Alcohol can cause you to lose your job, perform poorly in school, ruin close relationships or make bad financial decisions. It can also cause criminal or legal issues, especially if you drink and then drive.
Am I an Alcoholic? How You Can Fight Back
If you’re an alcoholic, help is available. At The Dunes of East Hampton, you can access resources that will help you embrace a life of sobriety. Through rehab programs, you’ll be able to fight back against alcoholism in a luxury setting. Some resources and therapies available include:
- Sober activities and excursions
- Group and family therapy
- Chefs and housekeeping staff for maximum comfort
- Holistic approaches to recovery
- Individual behavioral therapy
If you’ve been asking, “Am I an alcoholic?”, it’s time to take action. At The Dunes of East Hampton in New York, you can begin recovery without sacrificing your quality of life. Call 866-818-5539 to start leading the life you deserve.