What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction?
What Is Alcohol Addiction?

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Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol addiction is a strong, often overwhelming desire to consume alcohol. This is also known as alcohol or dependence alcoholism; alcohol addiction is medically recognized as a form of ‘alcohol-use disorder’ that can be treated. It differs from ‘harmful drinking’ (another alcohol-use disorder), which includes harmful drinking habits, such as binge-drinking, and is a drinking habit that harms your health but does not always lead to dependency.1
Warning Signs of Alcoholism
- Drinking longer than you intend to
- Having tried to stop drinking more than once and failed
- Spending a lot of time drinking
- Wanting alcohol so desperately you can think of nothing else
- Having to drink more than usual to achieve the desired impact
- Discovering withdrawal symptoms such as difficulty with a racing heart, sleeping, shakiness, etc.
Immediate Effects of Alcohol
- Distorted hearing and vision
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach
- Blackouts or memory lapses
- Slurred speech
- Headaches
- Drowsiness
- Vomiting
- Breathing problems
- Unconsciousness
Addiction To Alcohol
Who Is at Higher Risk for Alcoholism?
Genetics and Family History
Underage and Frequent Drinking
Social Factors
Mental Health Conditions
Trauma History
What Are Alcohol Addiction Symptoms?
An Uncontrollable Urge to Drink
Lack of Control Over How Much You Drink
Negative Thoughts When You're Not Drinking Alcohol
Drinking in Risky Situations
Drinking That Interferes With Things You Enjoy
Alcohol Use Disorder Effects:
Slurred Speech
Incoordination
Problems Walking Steadily
Poor Memory and Attention
Mood Changes
Poor Judgment
Psychological Signs of Alcohol Abuse
Heavy alcohol consumption modifies several brain chemicals (i.e., neurotransmitters) and hormone systems involved in developing many common mental illnesses (e.g., mood and anxiety disorders). Hence, it is not surprising that drinking can cause various psychological symptoms and indicators. Such psychological concerns are frequently the initial issues for which an alcoholic seeks treatment.
Rapidly Changing Moods
Increased Irritability, Anger, And Aggression
Failing to Follow Throughout on Responsibilities
Problems With Memory, Concentration, and Attention
New or Worsening Anxiety
Hallucinations

What Are the Treatments for Alcoholism?
Detoxification
Treatment may start with a detoxification regimen – medically supervised withdrawal. This is sometimes referred to as detox and usually takes about one week. Sedating drugs may be required to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Detox is often performed at a hospital or inpatient treatment center.
Rehabilitation
Maintenance
Behavioral Therapies
Learn How Ripple Ranch Can Help You Get Out of Alcohol Addiction
Quick access to medical care can make a huge difference in alcohol addiction. Ripple Ranch Recovery Center provides drug and alcohol addiction treatment services that are very affordable and effective. Ripple Ranch is dedicated to assisting and supporting people battling alcohol addiction on their path to ultimate recovery.
Reach out for the support you need today.
Resources
- 1https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/facts/health-effects-of-alcohol/mental-health/alcoholism
- 2https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/understanding-alcohol-abuse-symptoms
- 3https://www.drugfreeworld.org/drugfacts/alcohol/short-term-long-term-effects.html
- 4https://vertavahealthohio.com/alcohol/7-risk-factors/
- 5https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder