Recognizing & Confronting Alcohol Abuse

Introduction

There are approximately 17 million alcohol abusers in the United States (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism). Two-thirds of these people will cease abusing alcohol after receiving support and counseling.

Definition of Alcohol Abuse

When a person's use of alcohol interferes with his or her physical, social, or economic functioning.

Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Abuse

• Loss of time from school or work due to drinking.
• Depression or unhappiness due to drinking.
• Drinking in order to cope with personal problems.
• Drinking to overcome shyness.
• Loss of interest in family and friends.
• Loss of interest in activities which were once of interest.
• Difficulty sleeping due to drinking.
• Poor judgment.
• Drinking outside of a social setting.
• Showing up intoxicated in inappropriate settings.
• Drinking to build self-confidence.
• Mood fluctuations.
• Developing health problems due to drinking.
• Experiencing memory blackouts during or after drinking.
• Usually drinking to the point of intoxication.
• Feeling guilty about drinking.
• Not fulfilling promises or obligations because of drinking.

How to Confront an Alcohol Abuser

• Talk in a non-judgmental way about your feelings concerning the person's drinking.
• If an alcohol abuser denies that he/she has a drinking problem, let the person know what will happen if he/she does not stop drinking.
• If the alcohol abuser agrees to seek help, then get help immediately.

Common Traits Exhibited by an Alcohol Abuser When Confronted

• Denial.
• Rationalizing his/her alcohol use.
• Making excuses when promises and obligations are not fulfilled.
• Blaming others for problems.
• Manipulation.
• Dependency.

Help! Where to find it.

Counseling Services
120 Richmond Quad, Ellicott Complex
716-645-2720

Alcoholics Anonymous (853-0388)

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