Identifying alcoholism and promoting recovery
This week (30th October - 6th November) is Addiction Awareness Week. We believe that de-stigmatising addiction is paramount to encouraging addicts to get the help they need to make a healthy, happy recovery.
When does drinking become alcohol addiction?
Most of us enjoy an occasional drink, and many of us consume alcohol frequently in a way that does not fall into the definition of alcoholism. The difference between heavy usage and addiction is the element of control. Addicts lack any meaningful control in their consumption of alcohol.
Alcoholism is often characterised by:
Denial
Potential loss of employment can lead to attempt to cover up
Blackouts
Memory loss
Frequent drinking alone
Loss of interest in hobbies or pastimes
Drink driving
Persistent remorse
Secretive drinking and hiding of consumption
Aggression when questioned about drinking
Repeated failure of attempts to control or stop
Social and personal problems
Mood swings/psychological problems/depression
Where to find help
Resources for alcoholics
Resources for friends and family
Al-Anon -
National Association for Children of Alcoholics
Our tips
Don’t become part of the collusion – addicts may try to take emotional hostages.
Treatment depends on total abstinence and lots of support.
Be suspicious of those who say they are working their problem out. Success is rarely achieved through willpower alone.
Further reading
Download a copy of our E-Book, the Practical Guide to Drug & Alcohol Testing
Watch our Webinar, Developing a Robust Drug & Alcohol Policy
