Alcoholism, often known as alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a complicated and possibly debilitating condition that is characterized by an individual’s inability to manage the amount of alcohol that they consume while suffering negative repercussions in a variety of elements of their life. You must make an effort to get help as soon as possible if you have any reason to believe that you or a loved one may be struggling with alcoholism. Contacting an alcoholism hotline is likely going to be one of the most productive methods to get this process off on the right foot. In this extensive essay, you will discuss five different indicators that absolutely suggest that it is time to pick up the phone and call a helpline right away.
1. A Higher Level Of Tolerance
The development of an enhanced tolerance to the effects of alcohol is one of the earliest warning signs of alcoholism. This indicates that over time, a person will need increasingly greater quantities of alcohol in order to reach the same level of drunkenness that they were able to accomplish with lesser amounts of alcohol in the past. Suppose you or someone you know regularly consumes bigger quantities of alcohol without reaching the same level of drunkenness as in the past. In that case, this may be a worrisome symptom of alcoholism.
2. Signs And Symptoms Of Withdrawal
When trying to quit drinking, one of the most important warning signs to look out for is whether or not withdrawal symptoms appear. The severity of withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe, but they almost always include symptoms like nausea, anxiety, tremors, and even seizures in extreme situations. These physiological and psychological symptoms present themselves when the body has become reliant on alcohol, and when alcohol is removed from the system, an unfavorable reaction is triggered. You or someone you care about is likely dependent on alcohol if you experience any of these symptoms when trying to cut back or quit drinking. An alcoholism support helpline is staffed by experienced specialists who are familiar with the difficulties of addiction. When you give that number a call, you will immediately obtain assistance from a person who will listen to your worries without passing judgment on them. During times of difficulty, the ability to instantly connect with others may be an incredible source of comfort.
3. Ignoring Your Obligations And Responsibilities
Alcoholism can have a substantial negative impact on a person’s ability to perform their responsibilities in a variety of aspects of their lives, including at home, in the workplace, and the classroom. Suppose you observe a decrease in performance, increasing absenteeism, or a general neglect of vital duties owing to alcohol-related concerns. In that case, this is a symptom that alcoholism may be interfering with your day-to-day life.
4. Attempts To Abstain That Did Not Succeed
Many people who are battling alcoholism make many attempts to quit drinking or get control of their drinking, but they realize that it is extremely difficult to do either of those things. The inability to exercise control over one’s drinking is a defining characteristic of addiction. If you or someone you care about has made multiple attempts to stop drinking but has been unsuccessful each time, this is a significant indication that you or they require the support of a professional.
5. Use Of Alcohol That Is Continued Despite The Consequences
The continuous use of alcohol while suffering major problems as a result of doing so is, in many people’s opinions, the single most important indicator of alcoholism. Problems with the law, one’s physical health, one’s relationships, and one’s finances are only some of the potential outcomes of these effects. If a person continues to use alcohol despite the fact that they are aware of the negative consequences of doing so, this is a clear symptom of addiction.
Conclusion
Recognizing these symptoms is a very important first step, but it is only the beginning of a long road to recovery. It is essential to look for assistance. An alcoholic hotline offers callers a safe, discreet, and sympathetic environment in which they can freely express their concerns and investigate the range of treatment choices that are accessible to them. Making that first phone contact can be a decision that alters the course of one’s life and launches them on the road to recovery.
