When Binge Drinking Becomes Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol addiction may quickly develop when people engage in the slippery downward slope of binge drinking. Learn the symptoms, signs and differences between binge drinking and alcohol addiction, as well as the warning signs of addiction to alcohol.
Binge drinking is when someone consumes a large quantity of drinks or great quantity of alcohol over the course of a short period of time. It may seem harmless to many people engaging in such behavior because others may also be drinking just as much as they are or even more, but that may not be further from the truth. Binge drinking is not only dangerous and unhealthy- it’s also a slippery slope to alcohol addiction.
Some of the signs that you are drinking too much include vomiting after drinking, experiencing blackouts, drinking more than you said you would, drinking more than you wanted to or planned to consume, engaging in risky behavior and neglecting responsibilities as a result of drinking (i.e. due to a hangover).
Alcohol addiction differs from binge drinking in that it may be described as consuming excessive amounts of alcohol regularly or over a long period of time. Unfortunately, the irresponsible consumption of alcohol, such as is the case with binge drinking, may easily lead to the development of alcohol addiction.
Clients suffering from alcohol addiction who do not seek treatment are at risk of suffering from any number of possible health consequences as well as detrimental impacts on their mental health. Alcohol addiction also affects relationships, careers, finances and other significant life areas.
Warning Signs of Alcohol Addiction
Have you been engaging in binge drinking? Learn the warning signs of alcohol addiction.
- Having a very high tolerance for alcohol
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms while not under the influence of alcohol
- Being unable to stop drinking or to reduce quantity or frequency
- Drinking despite apparent consequences
- Neglecting responsibilities due to alcohol consumption
- Consuming alcohol has become the center focus of life
Treatment for Alcohol Abuse and Addiction
There is hope available in the form of alcohol addiction treatment which is also just as effective for alcohol abuse (such as binge drinking). Psychotherapy is the main treatment method as it helps clients to uncover the underlying personal causes behind their addictions or behind their drive to abuse alcohol. Gaining these deep, personal insights sets a great foundation for the recovery process. Other treatment methods include attending support group meetings, using and maintaining relapse prevention strategies, and participating in stress management and lifestyle counseling.
If you or someone you love is suffering from the effects of alcohol abuse, substance addiction or any other type of addiction, please call us today. Our addiction treatment counselors can help you deal with physical, emotional and psychological consequences of drug and alcohol abuse. A substance abuse treatment program is effective, safe and has helped many men reclaim their lives. Destination Hope is a full service drug, alcohol and dual diagnosis treatment facility in Florida for men suffering from substance abuse and mental health issues.