- May 27
- AddictionAlcohol Addiction TreatmentDrug Addiction TreatmentPrevention
According to a 2017 article in The Washington Post, one in eight Americans have an alcohol use disorder and a 2017 Pew Research poll found that nearly half of U.S. adults have a close friend or family member who has a substance use disorder involving drugs. Do you know the signs and symptoms of alcohol addiction?
Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction
Typically, signs and symptoms of addiction fall into three major categories: physical, behavioral and psychological.
Physical Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction
Physical symptoms of alcohol addiction refer to the way the disease manifests itself in physical appearance and function. Some of the most common physical symptoms include the following:
Bloodshot eyes or pupils larger or smaller than usual- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Sudden weight loss or weight gain
- Deterioration of physical appearance or personal grooming habits
- Unusual smells on the breath, body or clothing
- Tremors, slurred speech or impaired coordination
Bloodshot eyes or pupils larger or smaller than usualBehavioral Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction
Behavioral symptoms involve changes in day-to-day routines and behaviors. Although these can be more difficult to spot than physical cues, keep an eye out for the following:
- Drop in attendance and performance at work or school
- Unexplained need for money or financial problems
- Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors
- Sudden change in friends, favorite hangouts and hobbies
- Frequently getting into trouble (fights, accidents, illegal activities)
Psychological Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction
Psychological alcohol addiction symptoms describe the way the disease affects the brain and changes psychological behavior in profound ways. Be aware of the following psychological symptoms:
- Unexplained change in personality or attitude
- Sudden mood swings
- Irritability or angry outbursts
- Periods of unusual hyperactivity
- Agitation or giddiness
- Lack of motivation
- Appearing lethargic
- Appearing fearful, anxious or paranoid with no reason
Addiction is not a choice. Instead, it’s a disease that affects the brain in complex ways. Therefore, it won’t just get better with sheer willpower or a desire to quit. For this reason, individuals require integrated addiction therapy services in order to heal. Don’t let the stigma of addiction prevent you or a loved one from getting help.
About Gateway
As mentioned, alcohol addiction can tear your entire life apart. However, there’s hope for a new beginning. With several drug and alcohol rehab center locations in Illinois, Gateway has a multitude of resources to help individuals transform their lives. Our addiction treatment programs include:
- Residential Addiction Treatment Programs
- Intensive Outpatient Programs
- Partial Hospitalization Programs
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment Programs
- Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs
By learning the signs and symptoms of alcohol addiction, you can better recognize when a loved one may have a substance use disorder. Encouraging someone to get alcohol addiction treatment can help them get the help they need. Call Gateway at 877.505.4673 for help today.
