Have many times have you met a “problem drinker” in your life? Perhaps you had some friends in college who could down beer after beer without getting sick. On the other hand, maybe you are married to a man or woman who cannot stop downing a bottle of wine every night. Still, some of you may have seen someone who decided to go on a bender (multiple days of straight-up drinking). Regardless of how you define a problem drinker, keep in mind that not all of these people are alcoholics. In fact, many people who excessively consume alcohol don’t even have a substance use disorder. They just simply don’t want to drop a habit. So, how can you tell if a problem drinker has a nasty problem but doesn’t suffer from alcoholism? Let’s take a closer look at two main principles.
A Matter of Willpower
Ultimately, a person who suffers from alcoholism lacks the willpower to cut back on drinking and put a stop to their deadly habit. As presented by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Addiction, officials recommend that some people should create a “drinking diary” to keep a clean record of their alcohol use and to determine if you might actually have an alcohol use disorder. However, if you do discoverer a pattern of reckless behavior that stems from carelessness rather than a lack of willpower, then the chances are low that you are an alcoholic.
Feeling Powerless
Alcoholics will ultimately feel powerless against the tug of alcohol cravings, while some problem drinkers can easily break away from this drug at any time they choose. For example, alcoholics may repeatedly try to stop drinking, only to wind up in the exact place they started. On the other hand, a simple problem drinker has the power to put down the glass or bottle and say they are finished. In other words, people who overindulge have the power to stop, while alcoholics do not (due to a mental illness). Self-help programs like Alcoholics Anonymous can provide tips to you if you think you might be an alcoholic.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
Alcohol is a dangerous drug that can and will eventually inflict tremendous damage on your mind, body, and social life. Ultimately, if you do decide to separate yourself from alcohol altogether, bear in mind that you can possibly suffer from dangerous, life-threatening side effects, including delirium tremors. Are you suffering from a form of alcohol use disorder? Do you have a friend or a loved one who is suffering from this problem, as well? In both cases, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the rehabilitation process and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle.
If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to put a stop to your alcohol use disorder today.
