The signs that the drinking of alcohol has moved from social drinking to alcohol abuse include the inability to stop or cut back even when the dangers are recognized. It's important to become aware of the warning signs early on, in order to help the process of healing.
What is Alcohol Abuse?
If you feel you need to have a drink in order to relax, or you feel guilty or ashamed when you drink, you're probably abusing alcohol. If you find yourself lying to other about your drinking habits, or hiding your drinking, it's a sign you may need help.
If you find your friends or family are worried about you because of your drinking, or you regularly end up drinking more than you intended to, these are also indications that you need to seek help.
One of the differences between alcoholism and alcohol abuse is that those who are abusing alcohol but are not alcoholics are able to set some limits on their drinking, and may go for a long period of time without alcohol and without withdrawal symptoms. However, when they are drinking, they don't stop in the moment, and tend to put themselves and others in danger because of their drinking.
Alcohol abuse often results in a neglect of responsibilities such as work or school obligations, as well as family responsibilities. If there is any doubt at all that yours or a loved one’s drinking may have developed into alcohol abuse, it’s important to seek alcohol abuse treatment immediately. The sooner treatment begins, the easier it is to overcome.
Alcohol Abuse Treatment in an Outpatient Treatment Setting from The Dunes East Hampton Outpatient Program: