Recognizing and admitting you have a problematic relationship with alcohol requires overcoming years of denial and rationalization. At The Pearl, we understand the complexity of this issue and the courage it takes to confront its possibilities. This post will highlight the warning signs of problem drinking, highlight the risks associated with long-term alcohol abuse, and explain the need to seek treatment.
Red Flags of a Drinking Problem
Acknowledging a problem with alcohol can be challenging. Here are some signs that your drinking may have crossed into dangerous territory.
- Poor sleep hygiene: Regularly staying up late to drink disrupts sleep patterns. Alcohol-induced sleep is not refreshing, leading to concentration problems and impacting your performance at work or school.
- Risky sexual behavior: Alcohol lowers inhibitions and impairs judgment, increasing the likelihood of engaging in unsafe sexual practices and heightening the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases.
- Organ and tissue damage: Beyond the well-known liver damage, heavy drinking can affect your brain, nervous system, heart, pancreas, and even increase your risk of certain cancers.
- Malnutrition: Even if you prepare and consume well-balanced foods and eat the recommended three meals per day, alcohol addiction can rob you of the nourishment you need to stay healthy.
- Mental health challenges: Alcohol abuse frequently co-occurs with mental health issues. Drinking can be a misguided attempt to self-medicate conditions like anxiety and depression, causing these issues to get worse with time.
- Blacking out: If you frequently drink to excess, you may wake up the next day struggling to piece together your memories of the night before. Blackouts occur when your blood alcohol content is high enough to significantly impair your judgment, coordination and cognition.
- Alcohol poisoning: One of the most immediate and severe risks of excessive drinking is alcohol poisoning, which can be fatal without prompt medical intervention.
The Myth of High-Functioning Addiction
Some women manage to separate their daily responsibilities from their problematic drinking to the extent that their friends and family may not even realize there is a substance use issue. These so-called “high-functioning” addicts are likely in deep denial about the fact that their drinking is out of control because they can still maintain their careers, relationships, and societal roles.
However, just because an addict is supposedly “high-functioning,” that doesn’t make their issues any less severe. They still need to get help before their addiction jeopardizes their ability to lead a successful life. Substance abuse affects mental and physical health, regardless of outward appearances. Over time, the strain of maintaining a semblance of normalcy in the face of a progressive, chronic disease can lead to severe personal and professional consequences.
Transform Your Life With Florida Alcohol Treatment
If you or someone you know is showing signs of problem drinking, it’s vital to get treatment. At The Pearl, we offer a supportive and understanding environment to help women confront and overcome alcohol-related issues. Our holistic approach addresses addiction and the underlying factors contributing to it.
Remember, admitting the problem is the first step toward recovery. Contact The Pearl today to learn more about how we can help you begin pursuing a healthier, alcohol-free life.
