Alcohol addiction self-test: If you drink these 4 situations, don't admit that you are already an "alcoholic".
At the dining table of an ordinary family, the red wine in the glass glows with an alluring sheen. A middle-aged man frequently raises his glass and smiles, as if this is the best way to relax. However, as night wore on, the amount of alcohol increased, and this seemingly pleasant drinking Xi habit quietly deteriorated. The worries of the family, the mistakes at work, all of this seems to have nothing to do with alcohol, but it is inseparable.
Alcohol Addiction Boundaries: When Does Drinking Become a Burden?
Before understanding the definition of alcoholism, let's be clear: drinking alcohol is not inherently harmful, but rather excessive drinking that poses health risks. The World Health Organization's definition of alcohol abuse encompasses two key dimensions: the frequency and amount of alcohol consumed. Specifically, if the amount of alcohol consumed per day exceeds the standard amount (about 60 grams for men and 40 grams for women), or if frequent alcohol consumption interferes with daily life and physical health, this enters the category of alcoholism.
Studies have shown that long-term excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a variety of health problems, such as liver disease, high blood pressure, and heart disease. A study of 10,000 adults found that long-term heavy drinkers had 50% higher rates of heart disease than the general population.
When you understand the dangers of binge drinking, you can better understand why you need to pay attention to your drinking Xi habits. The impact on physical and mental health is a gradual process, and early identification and intervention are key to preventing health problems from getting worse. To put it simply, alcohol abuse is not only about how much alcohol is drunk, but also about how this Xi affects an individual's quality of life and health.
Self-test for alcoholism: Demystifying hidden signs of alcohol addiction
When it comes to alcoholism, many people may imagine daily drunkenness or uncontrollable drinking behavior. But the truth of alcoholism is far more subtle than that, often lurking in the Xi of everyday life. Here are four signs to help reveal if you're on the verge of alcoholism.
The Secret of Alcohol Consumption and Frequency: The line between normal social drinking and binge drinking is often blurred. For example, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than two drinks a day for men and more than one drink per day for women enter the category of excessive drinking. If you find yourself needing a few drinks every night to relax, or if you drink significantly more alcohol over the weekend, this could be an early sign of binge drinking.
The body's craving for alcohol: The body's dependence on alcohol doesn't happen overnight. If you find it difficult to fall asleep without alcohol, or if you wake up in the morning with withdrawal symptoms such as dry mouth and palpitation, it is a sign that your body has become dependent on alcohol. Long-term alcohol abuse can lead to impaired liver function, which is an irreversible health risk.
Psychological dependence: In addition to physical dependence, the emotional impact of alcohol is also the key to judging alcoholism. If you find that you particularly want to drink when you are stressed or depressed, or if drinking alcohol becomes the main way to cope with difficult emotions, this may be a sign of psychological dependence. Long-term dependence on alcohol to regulate mood increases the risk of depression or anxiety.
Impact on social and professional life: Alcohol abuse often unknowingly affects social and work. If a co-worker or family member starts to question the act of drinking, or if they miss out on important social activities and work responsibilities because of drinking, it could be a sign that alcoholism has begun to interfere with normal life.
Self-diagnosis: necessary but not the ultimate answer
When it comes to alcoholism, self-diagnosis is often the first step, but it's not infallible. Understanding the limitations of self-diagnosis is a key part of recognizing and addressing alcoholism.
First, an individual's assessment of his or her own behavior is often subjective. For example, a person who regularly drinks too much may underestimate how much they drink, thinking that it is "just socializing" and ignoring the fact that they drink frequently. According to one study, about 60% of alcoholics underestimate their alcohol consumption at the time of their initial assessment.
Second, the identification of physical and psychological dependence is not always obvious. For example, alcohol dependence may manifest as mild hand tremors or feelings of anxiety, symptoms that can easily be overlooked or misinterpreted as other health problems. Psychological dependence, on the other hand, is more subtle, such as seeing alcohol as the only way to relieve stress, and this psychological state is difficult for the person to detect.
Furthermore, the effects of alcohol abuse on social and professional life can be gradual. A person may not feel that drinking alcohol is affecting work or relationships in the early stages and does not begin to realize until the problem becomes serious.
Finally, a professional assessment not only takes these factors into account, but also includes a detailed medical examination and psychological assessment. These assessments provide a more comprehensive, objective perspective to help accurately identify alcohol problems and develop appropriate treatment plans.
Seeing the Sun: How to Get Out of the Shadow of Alcohol Addiction
In the face of alcoholism, being brave enough to ask for help is the first step towards recovery. Most people often feel helpless and confused when they realize that they have a drinking problem. But fortunately, there are many ways to help get rid of alcohol addiction.
First and foremost, professional medical institutions are the most important resource. These facilities not only provide medical evaluations, but also develop treatment plans tailored to individual circumstances. For example, some hospitals and clinics offer alcohol rehabilitation programs, including medication and psychological counseling, that have helped thousands of people regain their health. Especially for those experiencing withdrawal symptoms, professional medical intervention is essential.
In addition to medical institutions, various support groups are also valuable resources. These groups are often made up of people who have also experienced the challenges of alcohol addiction, who share each other's stories and coping strategies, providing emotional support and practical advice to members. For example, Alcohol Anonymous is a well-known support group that has meetings around the world and provides a platform for people to face alcohol addiction together.
Network resources should not be overlooked. There is a wealth of information and online support groups on the internet about alcohol abuse treatment. These online resources make it easier to ask for help, especially for those who have difficulty traveling to a healthcare facility or support group in person.
