Do I Have an Alcohol Problem?

Is your alcohol use turning into something you are worried about? It can be hard for many people to determine whether or not they have a problem with alcohol, but chances are, you’re not happy with your current drinking habits. If you’re wondering “do I have an alcohol problem?’, keep reading for a few tell-tale signs, what is involved with treatment, and what can happen if you leave your alcohol problem untreated.

Ask Yourself These Questions

If you are asking yourself, “do I have an alcohol problem?”, as yourself the following questions first. If you answer yes to most or all of them, it could be time to consider treatment before your condition progresses. The sooner you are able to start treatment, the better your chances will be with long-term recovery.

  • How often do you drink? If you drink every day or at inappropriate times of the day, you may have a problem with alcohol.
  • Do you often drink more than intended? One of the major hallmarks of alcohol addiction is the inability to slow or stop drinking, no matter how well-intended you are.
  • Do you often feel an urge to drink? If you are often counting down the hours until you are able to drink or are experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you don’t drink, it should be seen as a red flag.
  • Have hangovers or intoxication stopped you from going to work or school? Frequently calling in sick after drinking, going in late, or skipping classes due to drinking are a sign that you have an alcohol problem.
  • Has drinking affected your relationships? If your loved ones are telling you that you need help, you’ve embarrassed yourself in front of others, caused volatile situations, or have lost friends or other relationships due to drinking then you should seriously consider treatment.
  • Have you ever been in a dangerous situation due to drinking? This can include legal issues, drunk driving, stealing, being around suspicious people, or causing an abusive situation.
  • Does alcohol still give you the same euphoria? If you are drinking to feel normal or have to drink larger and larger amounts of alcohol to feel its effects, chances are you’ve formed a dependency and need treatment.
  • Do you frequently blackout? When people don’t know their limits with alcohol, they may experience a blackout once or twice in their lives. However, if this happens to you frequently or every time you drink, it should be a major cause for concern.

Treatment for Alcohol

Alcoholism is not the occasional misuse of wine, liquor, or beer. Sometimes people overindulge. But if your drinking is creating consequences greater than a headache, it’s time to get help. Treatment for alcohol includes:

  • Medication-assisted detox. Detoxing from alcohol is dangerous and should not be done alone. It can cause extremely uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, which you may be familiar with if you don’t drink for a period of time. Luckily, there are medications available to minimize them and keep you as comfortable as possible. Since these withdrawal symptoms can lead to complications, there are also around-the-clock medical staff and an on-site addictionologist to tend to your needs.
  • Behavioral therapy. Quitting alcohol for good is much more than just becoming physically sober. Mastering the ability to cope with triggers and cravings are also a major factor, which behavioral therapy can help with. Every addiction is different, and these therapies will be tailored to your specific needs and behaviors.
  • Holistic therapy. Keeping stress levels low is essential to recovery, which makes holistic therapy such an important part of alcohol treatment. Finding new ways to cope with stress instead of drinking will be vital for your ongoing sobriety.
  • Aftercare. The work doesn’t end once you’ve completed a 30, 60, 90-day or more treatment program. Staying sober takes ongoing work and effort, so keeping up with a regular aftercare program is essential for long-lasting recovery.

What Can Happen?

Alcoholism is a chronic, progressive condition. Without treatment, alcohol use disorder can lead to:

  • Injuries such as motor vehicle accidents, sexual assaults, violent assaults, drownings, falls, burns, or suicide
  • An array of health problems, such as cancer, brain damage, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, heart attack, seizures, sexually transmitted diseases, mental health conditions, and more
  • Socioeconomic issues such as homelessness, legal problems, financial issues, loss of family relationships, life-long effects on children, and more
  • Death caused by any of the above issues

About Cliffside Malibu

It can be scary to realize you may have an alcohol problem. The good news is that life will only get better from here. Our admissions counselors are on-hand 24 hours a day to confidentially answer any questions you may have. This can include anything from the treatment process, what detox is like, whether your insurance will cover treatment, and what your rights are to get time off of work for treatment. Stop wondering whether or not you have an alcohol problem, and start getting the help you need today.

Since no two addictions are the same, Cliffside Malibu offers an individualized treatment plan for every client. We are committed to providing evidence-based treatment through a continuum of care model including medically supervised detox, residential treatment, day treatment, and outpatient services. Our program also includes family therapy and holistic therapy, as well. Whether an individual is suffering from substance abuse and/or alcohol addiction, our programs are structured to create a supportive environment where healing can begin.

In addition to world-class treatment, Cliffside Malibu offers luxury accommodations, a serene environment, five-star dining, and plentiful amenities. We understand that addiction treatment is a rigorous process. Therefore, we provide for your comfort and relaxation at every turn, allowing you to rejuvenate, and meet the demands of treatment with your greatest energy and attention.

For more information on Cliffside Malibu, visit cliffsidemalibu.com