Signs of Alcoholism - How to Recognise the
Warning Signs of Alcoholism

Okay, so what are the major signs of alcoholism? It's time to get honest, to get real, and to face up to the fact whether you or someone you care about is indeed an alcoholic ...

It's actually really scary to have to face the truth that there is a problem. As an alcoholic, you will generally do anything to avoid admitting you have a problem. DENIAL is the biggest obstacle in you starting on the road to recovery because until you admit and realise that there is something wrong, no one can help you.

If you're being honest, you'll know that you have at times bent the truth when it comes to how much you drink, when you drink, and the effects its had on your life. It's never been that bad in your mind.

If someone you love abuses alcohol, you'll either make excuses for them or rationalise that it isn't that bad or that things will change.

How often have you promised yourself that you'll change ... how many times has someone promised you that they'll cut down or stop?

No more excuses ... Now is the time to start getting real. To face the facts and take ownership of what's really going on.

So let's look at some of the alcoholism signs:

• Preoccupation or Craving: Spending large amounts of time thinking about your next drink
• Increased Tolerance: Needing more to get the same effect
• Continued Use: Inability to reduce/stop your intake despite progressively damaging consequences
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Like the shakes or nausea and need a drink just to get to 'normal' again
• Drink Alone: Often drink secretively to avoid getting caught drinking and to avoid suspicion
• Regular Blackouts
• Hide your Supply: Always have alcohol available, often on you, just 'in case' you need some
• Find an Excuse to Drink: You'll always be able to justify having a drink, e.g. 'I've had a bad day, I'm stressed out ... or any other 'creative' reason
• Failed Promises: Have promised on more than one occasion (even to yourself) that you'll cut down or quit without being able to
• Family and Friends Avoided: Often don't want to do things and spend time with the people you usually do - becoming vague and distant

There might be one or two other signs and symptoms of alcoholism that I've missed, but the signs above are a pretty comprehensive list.

So how do you recognise that there is a problem?

If 3 or more traits are present there is likely to be a problem and you should take action immediately. Read that list again and be honest with yourself. You'll often find that most of those warning signs of alcoholism apply to you or a loved one.

There's absolutely nothing to be ashamed about if the signs of alcoholism show you or someone you care about to be an addict. Because in knowing, you're really starting to make progress. And admitting that there is a problem is where the road to recovery begins.