What Are Some Signs Of Alcoholism Or Alcohol Dependence?

When it comes to alcoholism and alcohol dependence, symptoms can be behavioral, emotional and physical in nature.

Whether someone makes excuses about his or her drinking, skips school or work, becomes violent while drinking and/or is unable to control the amount of alcohol consumed or the frequency of consumption, there are many signs to keep an eye out for when determining whether alcoholism is present.

On the physical side, these may include:

• Shakiness
• Trembles
• Anxiety
• Sweating, often profusely
• Nausea, with or without vomiting
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Depression

In severe cases of alcoholism and alcohol withdrawal, symptoms can also include hallucinations or seizures.

Alcohol Abuse vs. Alcohol Dependence. When we talk about people with “drinking problems,” we can be referring to either alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence (alcoholism). Both are what might be referred to as “problem drinking,” but are in fact different in other ways.

Alcoholism is a condition in which the alcoholic has is physically addicted to alcohol and continues to drink in spite of the related issues or “fallout” from drinking, from health to employment to relationships to reputation. Alcohol abuse shares many of the same symptoms as alcohol dependence, but without the aspect of physical addiction.

Other signs of alcoholism can include:

• Absences from school, work, regular activities of life
• Memory lapses or “blackouts” following heavy drinking
• Poor eating habits
• Neglect of self-care routines, such as grooming or bathing
• Hiding, making excuses or lying about alcohol use
• Inability to get through the day without drinking
• Seemingly little or no control over amount or duration of drinking
• Continue to drink despite physical issues/symptoms of a medical condition that worsens with alcohol use
• Drink alone, or early in the day, or to lessen hangover symptoms
• Physical symptoms of withdrawal when not drinking

When it comes to alcohol dependence and true signs of alcoholism, many people are in denial. In fact, the denial can be so strong for the alcoholic that the drinking continues despite the incredibly damaging and ever-increasing physical, mental, emotional and behavioral symptoms of alcoholism. It is no secret that denial is a key obstacle to recovery and that despite the clear presence of these signs, many alcoholics hold off on seeking help. In fact, denial can be as strong (if not stronger) than these very symptoms of alcohol abuse.