Are you concerned that you or someone you know may be an alcoholic? Find out how to recognise the common signs, and where to go for help.

What is alcoholism?

Alcoholism is the most serious form of problem drinking, and describes a strong, often uncontrollable, desire to drink. Sufferers of alcoholism will often place drinking above all other obligations, including work and family, and may build up a physical tolerance or experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop.

Alcoholism is sometimes known as alcohol addiction or alcohol dependence. It’s slightly different to ‘harmful drinking’, which is an occasional pattern of drinking that can cause damage your health. An example of harmful drinking is drinking too much at a party, and risking a fall or argument. This pattern may develop into alcoholism if that kind of harmful drinking becomes a habit and happens on a regular basis.

What are the signs of alcoholism?

It can be tricky to spot the signs of alcoholism as alcoholics can be secretive about it and can become angry if confronted.

However, if someone close to you is showing any of the following signs; it may be that they’re suffering from alcoholism:

1. A lack of interest in previously normal activities.
2. Appearing intoxicated more regularly.
3. Needing to drink more in order to achieve the same effects.
4. Appearing tired, unwell or irritable.
5. An inability to say no to alcohol.
6. Anxiety, depression or other mental health problems.
7. Becoming secretive or dishonest

If you think you may be drinking too much, or that your drinking is beginning to have a damaging effect on your life visit your closest Alcohol Anonymous (AA) branch to help you understand if there is cause for concern.
The AA Estcourt branch hosts meetings every Tuesday at Forderville Primary School from 7pm to 8pm. Contact Desigan on 082 849 3014.