Written By: Care New England on April 11, 2019
Updated By: Care New England Staff March 2025
Social events, family gatherings, and nights out with friends often include alcohol as part of the celebration. While many people drink in moderation, alcohol misuse can sometimes go unnoticed until it becomes a serious issue. Understanding the signs of problematic drinking is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship with alcohol and supporting those who may be struggling. By increasing awareness, we can promote safer choices and encourage open conversations about alcohol use and its effects.
The Impact of Alcohol
Each year, nearly 90,000 people die from alcohol-related causes. With 86.4% of adults having consumed alcohol at some point in their lives, the risks of excessive drinking are clear. Overindulging can have serious, even fatal, consequences. Raising awareness about alcohol misuse allows individuals, families, organizations, and health professionals to act - both by making informed choices at home and by supporting their communities in preventing alcohol abuse.
Warning Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Abuse
Recognizing the signs of alcohol or substance abuse is essential in addressing potential problems before they escalate. While occasional drinking may not seem harmful, certain behaviors can indicate a deeper issue that requires attention. Here are some common warning signs:
- Being unable to limit the amount of alcohol you drink - You may set out to have just one or two drinks but find yourself drinking far more than you intended. This loss of control can indicate an unhealthy relationship with alcohol.
- Trying to cut down on how much you drink but making unsuccessful attempts - If you've repeatedly told yourself or others that you'll reduce your drinking but haven't been able to follow through, it could be a sign of dependency. The inability to cut back despite the desire to do so suggests a deeper struggle with alcohol use.
- Spending large amounts of time buying, consuming, or recovering from alcohol use - If drinking becomes a central part of your daily routine - occupying your thoughts, time, and energy - it may be interfering with other important aspects of life. This includes frequent hangovers, planning events around alcohol, or prioritizing drinking over responsibilities.
- Failing to fulfill obligations at work, home, or school due to repeated use - Alcohol abuse can impact performance and reliability, leading to missed deadlines, declining productivity, or conflicts with colleagues and loved ones. Neglecting responsibilities, such as caring for family members or managing daily tasks, can be a red flag.
- Giving up or reducing social and work activities or hobbies - When drinking takes priority over activities that once brought joy—such as exercise, creative pursuits, or spending time with loved ones—it may indicate a growing dependence on alcohol. Isolation and withdrawal from meaningful activities are common signs of substance abuse.
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, and shaking, when you don’t drink, or drinking to avoid these symptoms - Physical withdrawal symptoms suggest that the body has developed an alcohol dependence. When drinking is used to avoid discomfort rather than for enjoyment, it is a clear indication that alcohol use has become problematic.
If you or someone you know is in need of help, The Providence Center (TPC) can help with a variety of programs that are specially designed to meet the needs of each individual and make their recovery a reality. From residential programs to intensive services and outpatient counseling, TPC has made recovery possible for 50 years through more than 60 programs and wraparound services that meet everyone’s unique needs for healthy living.
Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and should not serve as medical advice, consultation, or diagnosis. If you have a medical concern, please consult your healthcare provider or seek immediate medical treatment.
