Many people who drink alcohol may have experienced over indulging on a night out, being drunk or having hangovers. It is seen as a social norm to drink - but at what point does it become a level of dependency and even an addictive behaviour?
Alcohol addiction is characterised by an overwhelming, uncontrollable desire to drink which feels like a priority above everything and anyone else; the actions are driven by overwhelming feelings at the moment they are enacted. When we drink, many feel happy, sociable and more confident. We may temporarily feel less stressed or have a reduction of negative thoughts. But alcohol directly affects the 'reward pathways' of the brain, which is what gives the 'high', and makes it very addictive. This process of drinking to feel good becomes a learned behaviour - which is one reason why it is such a powerful force in alcohol misuse sufferers.
It can be hard to spot, and even harder to acknowledge that alcohol consumption is having a negative impact on our physical and mental health. It can help if we view our actions and thoughts subjectively, like an umpire watching a tennis match. We are temporarily just spectators, observing what we think, how we feel and what we do.
Apply that thought pattern to the following points and ask yourself if you can relate (the points are not specific to alcohol addiction, but also other substance misuse.)
The person:
may often appear tired or unwell
may seem secretive or dishonest
cannot stop drinking (and may have tried multiple times)
cannot recall some of the day or evening because of their drinking
sustains injuries or frequently has accidents because of their drinking
frequently justifies their drinking
is unable to refuse alcohol when offered
Acknowledging alcohol dependency is a key step in facilitating recovery. Once there is acceptance we can move towards a contemplation mindset, where we begin to welcome the idea of counselling.
If you, or someone you know, is experiencing difficulties with alcohol, please get in touch when you feel ready to do so.
Comments