When is drink a problem

Our 'What's on your mind? Signs of alcohol abuse Sometimes it can be hard to notice when a regular couple of drinks has turned into too many, too often.

Questions to ask yourself Here are some questions that people who work in the field of alcohol addiction often ask: Do you drink because you have problems or to relax? Do you prefer to drink alone, rather than with other people? Is your work or education suffering as a result of your drinking?

Do you drink in the morning, before school or work? Do you ever have loss of memory due to your drinking? Do you lie about how much or how often you drink? Where can I get help? Problem Drinking People with unhealthy alcohol use also called alcohol use disorder or AUD can't always predict how much they will drink, when they will stop, or what they will do while drinking. The effects of alcohol Alcohol can lessen tension, reduce inhibitions, and ease social interactions.

But drinking too much can: Be physically and psychologically addicting Cause impaired memory, coordination, and judgment Damage the heart, liver, and nervous system Lead to birth defects People who abuse alcohol also put themselves and others at risk if they drive or operate machinery after drinking too much.

Safe drinking If you drink alcohol, take these steps to reduce risks: Eat before drinking to help slow the alcohol's absorption and slow its effects. Don't drink when you are under stress, emotionally upset, or tired. Don't mix alcohol with drugs or medicines. Never drink and drive.

Signs of problem drinking If you are concerned about your drinking, or think someone you care about has a drinking problem, look for these signs: Frequent uncontrolled drinking episodes Drinking until drunk Going to work drunk or drinking on the job Driving while drunk Doing something under the influence of alcohol that they would not otherwise do Getting in trouble with the law or being injured due to drinking Having problems at school, with social relationships, or with family members because of drinking Using alcohol to decrease anxiety or sadness Gulping drinks Frequently having more than 2 drinks a day for men or 1 drink a day for women or older adults with a standard drink being one ounce bottle or can of beer or a wine cooler, one 5-ounce glass of wine, or 1.

Treat alcoholism as a disease, not a moral failure or lack of willpower. Encourage treatment. Your healthcare provider can help find treatment resources. Respect the recovered alcoholic's choice to stay away from alcohol. Contribution of excessive alcohol consumption to deaths and years of potential life lost in the United States.

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