Find out if you might have a problem with alcohol

For many people, a A glass of wine or beer at home at the end of the day It presents a pleasant moment to relax during a social gathering. But when alcohol consumption begins to repeat uncontrollably, it can become a problem. Therefore, it is important to ask yourself if you have a healthy relationship with alcohol. And it is that he Alcoholism affects millions of people around the world. And many don’t even recognize it as a problem. However, there are some signs that can warn us that we may develop an addiction, Dr. Marta Soto, addiction specialist at the Lopez Ibor Clinic. Doubt it, you can do this simple test. Also, several experts of this center have explained in detail what are the symptoms of this problem and what we should do.

Signs that alcohol consumption may be a problem

One of the first warnings is overconsumption on any occasion. Maybe you used to only drink on special occasions, but now any gathering, event, or even a quiet night at home becomes an excuse to drink. This type of behavior often goes unnoticed because drinking has become socially normalized, but when the act of drinking occurs without a specific reason, alcohol can occupy a central place in your life. Identifying this change in your spending patterns can be key to preventing long-term problems.

Another important sign is Normalization of alcohol consumption. Have you ever justified yourself by saying “I only drink beer” or “a glass of wine doesn’t count”? Such rationalization minimizes the impact of consumption and makes it easier to ignore signs of dependence. Sometimes this self-deception turns into persistent denial, and it’s important to recognize it before it’s too late.

he A constant desire to drink is another important warning. If alcohol becomes your first choice to relax, feel good, or cope with difficult situations, it may indicate dependence. This desire to regularly drink alcohol, even in small amounts, can be a warning sign, especially if you find it hard to imagine a week without drinking.

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Lack of control as a symptom of dependence

D Lack of control over alcohol consumption This is a clear sign that you may be developing an addiction. Maybe at some point you went out for just one drink and ended up having several, or you started drinking alcohol at inappropriate times, like at work or before driving. These excesses, although they may seem isolated, can become a pattern that affects all aspects of your life. Dr. Soto explains that when alcohol consumption gets out of control, it is much more difficult to reduce without professional help.

Alcohol also affects behavior. Dr. Soto notes that this is common to see Changes in behavioras Aggression, irritability, or mood swings. These changes may be invisible at first, but over time they become a constant. In the long run, behavioral changes affect your relationships with those around you, which affects both your personal relationships and your mental health.

D Lack of interest in normal activities is another warning sign. People with addiction problems put aside important hobbies and projects in favor of drinking, something that often goes unnoticed. If you find that you no longer enjoy activities you were once passionate about and instead prioritize drinking, this is a sign that alcohol may be taking an unhealthy place in your life.

Social and occupational consequences of alcoholism

Alcoholism affects not only the individual, but also the individual Social and work life. Over time, people suffering from addiction tend to surround themselves with those who drink, who distance themselves from friends and family who do not share the habit. This distance may seem trivial at first, but it intensifies until it becomes a Complete isolation. Dr. Soto warns that this “social destruction” is a common pattern of drinking and is an indication that consumption is affecting your personal connections and relationships.

he Withdrawal syndrome is another important symptom of dependence. As you experience symptoms when you try to cut down or stop drinking Anxiety, tremors or even feverThis indicates that the body has already become accustomed to consumption. The physical symptoms of withdrawal syndrome are not only difficult to cope with, but Increase the likelihood of relapsesStop the cycle of dependency.

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Dual pathology and alcohol consumption

In some cases, alcoholism is combined with others Mental health problemsas anxiety or depression, This is known as dual pathology. This happens when, in addition to alcohol dependence, there are other mental disorders that require treatment.

he Dr. Basurte, a specialist at the Lopez Ibor Clinic, He tells us that “in this case we treat both the addiction and the mental disorder simultaneously to ensure a more effective recovery.” Dual pathology It affects more than 60% of people with addiction problems, And treatment is essential to prevent the problem from getting worse. Addressing both conditions allows us to reduce the risk of relapse and achieve recovery over time.

Treatment of alcoholism

recognize that There is a problem he The first step towards recovery from alcoholism. The experts at the Lopez Ibor Clinic explain to us that Treatment for alcohol dependence A comprehensive and personalized approach that focuses on several key stages includes:

1. Personalized assessment and diagnosis: Each person has their own spending patterns and specific circumstances. A detailed diagnosis allows treatment to be adapted to each specific case and to define clear objectives.
2. Individual therapy: Personalized therapy makes it possible to address behavioral patterns and, in the case of dual pathology, also work on associated mental disorders. This comprehensive approach is the key to effective recovery.
3. Pharmacological support: To reduce the risk of withdrawal syndrome, medical help is essential. There are specific treatments that help control physical symptoms and reduce anxiety, facilitating the detoxification process.
4. Group therapy and mutual support: Sharing experiences with others in the same recovery process is an important help. Support groups provide a safe environment to express emotions and receive support during difficult times.
5. Development of coping skills: Maintaining abstinence requires learning to manage stress and avoid risky situations. Developing these coping skills is essential to avoid relapse in the long term.
6. Long-term planning and monitoring: Recovery from alcoholism is not an instantaneous process; It takes time, commitment, and an ongoing support system. Setting realistic goals and continuous monitoring increase the likelihood of success.

The importance of seeking help in time

Alcoholism is a problem that develops slowly, and Many warning signs can go unnoticed Or justify it as “something normal”. Therefore, if you recognize any of these symptoms in your life, it is possible that alcohol is affecting you more than you think. It is important then you are looking Professional help to free yourself from addiction and dependence.