Drinking alcohol is often a way to unwind, socialize, and have fun. In some situations, casual drinking can gradually lead to addiction, which poses a significant risk to an individual’s health and, in extreme cases, can be life-threatening. Here is how you can tell the difference between casual drinking and alcohol addiction:
Frequency of Drinking
Casual drinkers consume alcohol occasionally or socially with friends. This could be on the weekends or during special events. Individuals with an alcohol addiction drink more often and may feel the need to drink every day, sometimes multiple times a day.
Health Consequences
Casual drinkers may not experience health consequences from their drinking. Excessive alcohol consumption can have several physical health consequences. Long-term effects of alcohol consumption can cause liver cirrhosis, which is irreversible damage to the liver. Pancreatitis is another severe condition that can occur due to excessive alcohol consumption. It’s a condition where the pancreas becomes inflamed, leading to severe pain and digestive problems.
Amount of Drinking
Casual drinkers may drink one or two drinks at night and often drink to enjoy the beverage. These drinkers can easily stop drinking or refuse alcohol altogether, even after having a few drinks. People with an alcohol addiction drink to feel the effects of alcohol quickly. They may often feel powerless to stop drinking, even if they know it’s negatively affecting their life.
Tolerance
Tolerance refers to the amount of alcohol one can consume before feeling the effects. In casual drinking, people stick to their limits or drink within a specific range. People with alcohol addiction may have a higher tolerance level or may find it hard to get drunk no matter how much alcohol they consume. This higher tolerance level can occur because the body becomes dependent on the substance. The liver works hard to process the alcohol, causing the need for more alcohol for the same effects.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms refer to the physical and psychological symptoms experienced by someone dependent on alcohol when they stop drinking. Casual drinkers may not experience any symptoms when they discontinue alcohol consumption. People with alcohol addiction can experience symptoms such as tremors, anxiety, nausea, hallucinations, seizures, and sweating when they stop drinking abruptly.
Solo Drinking
Casual drinkers may have a glass of wine with their meal or enjoy a beer while watching a game alone without experiencing any adverse effects. Individuals with alcohol addiction may depend on drinking alone to isolate themselves from others or to avoid criticism from family and friends.
Emotional and Social Impacts
A casual drinker can consume alcohol and maintain healthy emotional and social relationships with friends and family. Individuals with an alcohol addiction may struggle to maintain healthy relationships with their social circle and may even lose their job due to drinking.
Neglect of Responsibilities
Casual drinking often doesn’t impair your functioning, and you can still complete your work or family responsibilities without complications. With alcohol addiction, the individual can often prioritize drinking above all else, neglecting the duties of their life. Work performance, family commitments, and even personal hygiene may take a backseat to alcohol abuse.
Read Also: How Supplements Can Help with Different Types of Menstrual Issues
Risk-taking Behavior
Alcohol addiction can result in taking risks, engaging in dangerous behavior, and making poor decisions. Casual drinkers can engage in occasional risk-taking behavior, but it may not result in significant harm, legal issues, or adverse outcomes. Alcoholics are more likely to engage in actions like driving under the influence, gambling, or participating in risky sexual behavior.
Avoiding Alcohol Addiction
Understanding the differences between casual drinking and alcohol addiction could help prevent or treat the latter. If you think you might be struggling with addiction, seek help from a qualified professional. They can help you evaluate your situation and provide practical solutions to help you on your road to recovery.
