Signs of a Drinking Problem: How Much Alcohol per Week Is Too Much?

By Melissa Lobo | June 29, 2022

Approximately 16 million Americans struggle with an alcohol use disorder (AUD), but less than 10% of them seek treatment.

Most other Americans with AUD are in denial. They claim they’re in control over their alcohol consumption and can quit anytime they like. Sadly, they never do, and most develop severe health issues due to excessive alcohol consumption.

So, how can you know you’re drinking too much alcohol?

To help you out, here are signs of a drinking problem.

Temporary Blackouts

Many people experience temporary blackouts after a night of binge drinking. If you notice this problem frequently, then you’re drinking too much alcohol. You need to start watching your alcohol intake before you develop AUD.

Consider alcohol addiction treatment if you find it hard to stop binge drinking. Contact a licensed alcohol addiction rehab such as Hope Rising for more information. The idea is to learn more about how alcohol addiction treatment works and how long it takes.

Drinking Alone or in Secrecy

Alcohol abuse is a disorder that thrives in isolation. You start feeling like other people are judging you. So, you choose to stay away from them and drink in secrecy.

Sadly, the isolation will cause you to start experiencing these feelings:

• Disconnected from loved ones
• Unworthy of love
• Despair
• Depression
• Misunderstood
• Worthless

To counter these feelings, you’ll keep increasing your alcohol intake.

So, if lately you have been isolating yourself and drinking in secrecy, then there’s a problem.

Extreme Mood Swings

Alcohol abuse affects brain functionality and changes your behavior. And that’s why many alcoholics struggle with mood swings. So, they’re easily irritated and hot-tempered.

Also, binge drinking affects their productivity and performance levels. Alcoholics often choose to drink instead of work and key obligations. They are frequently too hungover to go to work or undertake other functions.

So, if you start missing work after a night of heavy drinking, then there’s a problem. You might develop severe alcohol use disorder if you don’t act immediately. Also, your behavior change might cause you to lose your job.

It’s crucial when you notice you’re drinking alcohol more than usual, you seek professional help.

Making Excuses for Drinking

Although it’s okay to drink alcohol every now and then, watch out for when you start making excuses to drink. You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you must drink to overcome stress or feel normal. Also, you should be concerned when you start justifying binge drinking.

If you notice this behavior, try going for several days without taking any alcohol.

Seek Treatment by Detecting Signs of a Drinking Problem

Take action immediately if you notice any of the above signs of a drinking problem. Start by trying to go for several days without consuming any alcohol. If this doesn’t work, consider professional help.

Search for a licensed and reputable alcohol addiction treatment center.

Please check our other blog posts for more Addiction, Health, and Wellness tips.