Am I an Alcoholic? Signs That Could Indicate an Alcohol Use Disorder

Identifying alcohol abuse and addiction can be challenging, as the indicators are not always clear-cut. Some individuals may frequently consume more alcohol than intended or constantly think about their next drink. Others might depend on alcohol to manage stress or habitually drink after returning home from work each day.

These are just a few examples of the numerous physical and emotional signs that may indicate a struggle with alcoholism. If you’re worried about your own relationship with alcohol or that of a loved one, understanding the signs of alcohol addiction and knowing where to seek assistance is essential.

What Is Alcoholism or Alcohol Use Disorder?

Alcohol use disorder (AUD), clinically known as alcoholism, is characterized by the inability to control excessive alcohol consumption despite negative consequences in various aspects of life. Alcoholism is recognized as a disease that impacts the brain and can range from mild to severe in its manifestation.

Many individuals consume alcohol in moderation—defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men. However, some people develop a tolerance, requiring larger amounts of alcohol to achieve the same effects. This escalating consumption can eventually lead to alcoholism. In the United States, approximately 14.1 million adults aged 18 or older and 414,000 children aged 12 to 17 meet the criteria for alcoholism.

I Drink Every Night — Am I an Alcoholic?

Regular or nightly alcohol consumption does not automatically indicate alcoholism. Other factors, such as the quantity of alcohol consumed and the reasons behind drinking, are more accurate indicators of a potential alcohol use disorder.

Distinguishing Between Heavy Drinkers and Alcoholics

Heavy drinking does not necessarily equate to alcoholism, though alcoholism typically involves heavy and frequent drinking. The distinction lies in control and dependency. Heavy drinkers may occasionally consume large amounts of alcohol but can stop when they choose to. In contrast, alcoholics feel compelled to drink and often consume more alcohol over time to achieve satisfaction, struggling to control their intake.

Defining Heavy Drinking

Generally, heavy drinking is defined as consuming more than four drinks for men or more than three drinks for women on any single occasion. On a weekly basis, heavy drinking is considered to be more than 14 drinks for men and more than seven drinks for women.

11 Indicators That You Might Be an Alcoholic

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), outlines criteria to help determine if someone may be struggling with alcoholism. These criteria include:

1. Drinking more alcohol than intended.
2. Inability to reduce alcohol consumption despite wanting to.
3. Experiencing withdrawal symptoms after stopping drinking.
4. Craving alcohol strongly enough to interfere with daily activities.
5. Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home due to drinking.
6. Continuing to drink despite causing problems with family or friends.
7. Losing interest in activities that were once enjoyable.
8. Engaging in risky behaviors while under the influence of alcohol, such as driving or fighting.
9. Persisting in alcohol use despite worsening physical or mental health.
10. Increasing alcohol intake to achieve the same effects due to tolerance.
11. Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking.

Assessing Your Responses

To be diagnosed with alcohol use disorder, an individual must meet at least two of these criteria within a 12-month period. The severity of AUD is categorized based on the number of criteria met:

• Mild: Two to three criteria
• Moderate: Four to five criteria
• Severe: Six or more criteria

If you find yourself answering “yes” to two or more of these questions, seeking treatment for alcohol use disorder may be necessary.

The Five Types of Alcoholics

Individuals struggling with alcohol addiction typically fall into one of five distinct subtypes. Recognizing these subtypes can help tailor effective treatment and intervention strategies.

1. Young Adult Subtype
   • Prevalence: Accounts for 31.1% of alcoholics.
   • Onset: Begins drinking around age 19 and develops alcoholism by age 24.
   • Characteristics: Often college-aged males who engage in binge drinking.
2. Functional Subtype
   • Prevalence: Typically middle-aged, married men.
   • Onset: Drinking starts later compared to other subtypes.
   • Characteristics: Manages to keep drinking from interfering with work or relationships, often unaware of the problem until serious issues arise. May also suffer from mental health conditions like anxiety or depression.
3. Intermediate Familial Subtype
   • Prevalence: Predominantly males.
   • Onset: Begins drinking around age 17 and develops dependency in their early 30s.
   • Characteristics: Likely to have family members who are also alcoholics and may use other substances such as cocaine, marijuana, or cigarettes.
4. Young Antisocial Subtype
   • Prevalence: Almost entirely male, with only 25% females.
   • Onset: Starts using alcohol as early as age 15 and becomes dependent by 18.
   • Characteristics: High rates of depression, social phobias, bipolar disorder, and co-occurring substance abuse. Drinks more frequently and in larger quantities but also has a high rate of seeking treatment.
5. Chronic Severe Subtype
   • Prevalence: Often starts drinking around age 15.
   • Characteristics: Takes longer to develop dependency and has a higher likelihood of having family members who are alcoholics. Suffering from additional mental health diagnoses such as depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. Experiences significant interpersonal issues and is most likely to seek treatment, with 66% entering addiction treatment programs.

What Are the Signs of Alcoholism?

Alcohol use disorder manifests in various forms and presents a wide array of signs and symptoms. Understanding these can help determine whether you or someone you care about may be at risk.

Early Indicators of Alcoholism

Look out for the following signs that may suggest a risk of developing alcoholism:

• Consistently drinking more or longer than intended
• Inability to stop drinking despite wanting to
• Frequent hangovers
• Alcohol use interfering with responsibilities
• Needing to drink more over time to achieve the same effect

Behavioral Indicators of Alcoholism

Behavioral signs can help identify potential alcoholism, including:

• Drinking despite negative impacts on work or school performance
• Hiding the amount of alcohol consumed
• Becoming defensive or agitated when questioned about drinking habits
• Engaging in risky activities while intoxicated, such as driving or fighting
• Denial about alcohol consumption patterns
• Anxiety or distraction when thinking about alcohol
• Continuing to drink despite feeling depressed or anxious
• Reducing participation in previously enjoyable activities like sports or family events

Physical Indicators of Alcoholism

Alcoholism also affects physical health, presenting signs such as:

• Withdrawal symptoms when not drinking
• Slowed reaction times
• Blackouts
• Poor coordination
• Memory issues or lapses
• Slurred speech
• Physical health problems like cirrhosis
• Malnutrition
• Hair loss or thinning
• Dark circles under the eyes

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent further kidney damage or other health issues.

Seeking Help at The Recovery Village Salem

Alcohol use disorder can have profound impacts on both personal and financial aspects of life. However, attending a rehabilitation program is a worthy investment in your long-term health and well-being. The Recovery Village Salem offers compassionate and comprehensive treatment programs tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether you’re seeking inpatient care, outpatient services, or family support, our dedicated team is here to help you achieve lasting sobriety.