More than 80% of American adults have consumed at least one alcoholic beverage in the past year, making alcohol one of the most commonly abused psychoactive substances in the United States. Alcohol is a major part of social life, especially at college campuses, night clubs, and sporting events. Alcohol is also commonly present at weddings and celebrations like birthday parties, holiday get-togethers, and graduation parties. Do you find yourself asking the question, "Am I an alcoholic?" on occasion?
Even though alcohol is legal, it still is both physically and psychologically addicting. Long-term alcohol abuse can lead to major medical issues, like fatty liver disease, and cause serious birth defects. Alcohol plays a role in more than 80,000 deaths annually, with drunk driving an especially visible problem.
If you are wondering am I an alcoholic, you may recognize that you struggle to control or limit your drinking. Alcoholism impacts millions of Americans annually, making an addiction rehab center in San Antonio TX an important step in the recovery process.
If you ask yourself questions like am I an alcoholic or do I have alcoholism, you probably recognized that your drinking is not normal. While many people drink recreationally, and alcohol use is largely socially acceptable, people who struggle with a drinking problem find it hard to control their alcohol consumption.
In addition, alcohol changes your brain chemistry and causes your brain to release neurotransmitters like GABA, serotonin, and dopamine in excess. This leads to pleasurable intoxicating effects which can become addicting. You may even experience intense cravings if you try to stop drinking on your own.
Sings of alcoholism and alcohol abuse include:
If you are wondering am I an alcoholic, chances are you already understand that you are abusing alcohol and is a sign that you should reach out for help.
Alcohol is physically addictive, which creates intense withdrawal symptoms. These withdrawal symptoms can include:
Most alcohol withdrawal symptoms can be treated successfully with the help of a treatment center. Also, evidence-based and holistic treatments are used to help you identify and change negative thinking patterns, behaviors and emotions. Learning how to control distressful and troubling thoughts and emotions without using alcohol is a key part of recovery. Inpatient and outpatient treatment programs both implement therapy and holistic methods to help you maintain sobriety. Also, 12 step meetings and peer-led support groups provide you with an extensive network of supportive, recovery focused on people who can help you cope with cravings and triggers.
Therefore, if you ever ask yourself am I an alcoholic, it may be a sign that you struggle with a drinking problem or alcoholism. San Antonio Recovery Center, the premier alcohol addiction rehab center San Antonio TX offers, is here to help you beat alcoholism. Call us today at 866.957.7885 to learn more about our nationally recognized recovery programs.
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