What Are the Signs of Alcohol Addiction? How to Recognise and Address the Problem
Watching someone you care about struggle with alcohol addiction can be heart-wrenching. Learning to recognise the signs and knowing how to help are crucial first steps in supporting their journey to recovery.
This guide will help you understand the warning signs of alcohol addiction and provide practical steps for helping your loved one seek treatment.
Common Signs of Alcohol Addiction to Watch For
The signs of alcohol addiction aren't always obvious at first. Your loved one might be skilled at hiding their drinking habits, but certain behavioral and physical changes often become apparent over time:
Changes in Daily Behavior and Routines
Making excuses to drink or ensuring alcohol is present at every social gathering
Drinking at inappropriate times, such as during work hours or early in the morning
Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home due to drinking or hangovers
Experiencing frequent "sick days" or unexplained absences
Social and Relationship Changes
Withdrawing from family activities or previous hobbies
Choosing drinking over important relationships or commitments
Surrounding themselves with new friends who drink heavily
Becoming defensive or angry when anyone mentions their drinking habits
Physical and Health Signs
Appearing tired, unwell, or showing signs of poor self-care
Experiencing frequent mood swings or irritability
Developing a higher tolerance for alcohol
Showing signs of withdrawal when not drinking, such as shakiness or anxiety
How to Approach Someone About Their Drinking
Starting a conversation about alcohol addiction requires sensitivity and careful timing:
Choose the Right Moment
Pick a time when your loved one is sober and relatively calm. Avoid confronting them when they're drinking or hungover, as this could lead to defensiveness or anger.
Express Concern with Compassion
Use "I" statements to express your concerns without judgment. For example: "I've noticed you've been drinking more lately, and I'm worried about you" rather than "You need to stop drinking so much."
Listen Without Judgment
Allow them to share their feelings and perspective without interruption. They may be more willing to open up if they feel heard and understood rather than criticised.
Taking Action to Help
Once you've opened the dialogue, there are several practical ways to support your loved one:
Offer Specific Support
Help research treatment options and rehabilitation facilities
Offer to attend support group meetings with them
Assist with practical matters like childcare or transportation during treatment
Create a alcohol-free environment when spending time together
Set Healthy Boundaries
While supporting your loved one, it's essential to:
Avoid enabling their drinking behavior
Maintain your own emotional well-being
Set clear limits on what support you can provide
Seek support for yourself through family support groups
Understanding Professional Treatment Options
Professional treatment can take several forms:
Medical Detoxification
For those with severe alcohol dependence, medically supervised detox may be necessary to safely manage withdrawal symptoms.
Rehabilitation Programs
Inpatient treatment: Provides 24/7 care and support in a structured environment
Outpatient programs: Allows individuals to maintain work and family commitments while receiving treatment
Intensive outpatient programs: Offers more frequent treatment sessions while living at home
Ongoing Support
Long-term recovery often involves:
Regular counseling or therapy sessions
Support group participation
Family therapy
Lifestyle changes and stress management techniques
Ready to Help Someone Get Treatment?
If you recognise these signs in someone you care about, taking action now could save their life. Southern Highlands Retreat offers comprehensive alcohol addiction treatment programs designed to support both the individual and their family throughout the recovery journey.
Additionally, we have an Alcohol Risk Quiz that can help anyone recognize if they are in need of help.
Contact Southern Highlands Retreat now – because your loved one's future is worth fighting for.
