Alcoholic man

What makes a person an alcoholic? It may not be as obvious as some expect. An alcoholic is an individual who has an addiction to alcohol. An addiction means that they understand that their continued use of alcohol is going to cause complications in their life, such as problems with health, reckless behavior, and even death. Yet, they cannot seem to stop using. A person who is in this situation may want to stop using, but they cannot. They often need help.

If you believe a loved one in your life is struggling with alcoholism, it is critical to take action. Encourage them to get help by calling America’s Rehab Campuses to learn more about our alcohol treatment programs. For many people, this is critical.

Behavior of an Alcoholic Explained

A person who is intoxicated is likely to have some outward signs of being under the influence of alcohol. For example, they may not speak clearly, or they may not be able to focus. Some are unable to make decisions, while others are aggressive and even violent. Some people seem totally normal, yet they have been drinking heavily for years. A person that’s intoxicated is not necessarily an alcoholic. Instead of focusing on just one or two experiences, consider how a person with alcohol use disorder is likely to behave.

Changes in Behaviors

It is common to see changes in behavior over time. Here are some examples:

  • A person that was once well put together and always on time for work is no longer able to make it to work on time and often looks disheveled or unorganized.
  • The things a person used to love to do no longer seem important to them. That often means pulling out of hobbies or experiences they used to enjoy all of the time.
  • Some people isolate themselves more so often because they know their loved ones would not understand their use of alcohol.
  • The person that used to come to all of your family’s events no longer does and prefers to spend time with other people. A change in friends can also be an indication of a growing problem.

Changes in Health

It is also important to see what is happening to their health while this is occurring. A person who is an alcoholic may have new behaviors due to their health complications:

  • When not able to use alcohol, they may be ill, sometimes struggling with vomiting, nausea, aches, and pains that are otherwise not explained.
  • Sleep habits have changed a significant amount. They may need to sleep all of the time.
  • An inability to eat foods properly can also be an indication of a health problem, especially if they are not eating much at all any longer.

Changes in Emotions

Also, look for the way a person behaves as it relates to their emotional wellbeing. Some examples may include:

  • Aggressive behavior when they cannot use it may occur, sometimes putting other people at risk.
  • Many people struggle with high levels of anxiety when they are unable to use.
  • They may be more overwhelmed and fearful, especially in situations where trauma is a factor.

What Is Happening to Your Loved One?

Alcoholism can cause a lot of change in a person. Some people are still able to go to work, meet family responsibilities, and even seem okay mentally. Yet, there are still some signs that things are not right, such as not being around as much or simply hiding their alcohol use. These changes all occur because of the way alcohol impacts the brain. It is likely to worsen unless help is obtained.

As a chronic condition, alcohol use disorder could lead to more health risks, cognitive impairment, and the onset of long-term mental health complications.

America’s Rehab Campuses can offer the help you need. With a wide range of treatment options, including medical detox for chronic alcoholism sufferers, our team can help many people stop living a life focused on alcohol. As difficult as it often seems, there are treatment options that can make a big difference in your future.

To learn more about them, contact our team today. Our compassionate counselors can offer recommendations for treatment and get you into care right away.