Alcohol When is too much?

Is my family member or friend drinking too much?

Discussing a loved ones drinking habits might feel  an impossible task, but delaying the conversation can allow the issue to become worse. If you think your partner is drinking excessively, it’s crucial to address it promptly for the well-being of both of you. You may notice certain signs or behaviours linked to different patterns of drinking.

Signs and symptoms

1. Alcohol negatively affects their personality during or after a period of heavy drinking.
2. Behaviour changes or become agitated if unable to drink.
3. Spends a large amount of time drinking excessively.
4. Drinking is put before work or family events.
5. Drinking to black out.
6. Drinking causing injury or harm to self.
7. Finds it difficult to stop when drinking in the evenings or while socialising.

What can I do?

If you observe these signs or symptoms, it might indicate that your partner, friend, or family member has a drinking problem. There are positive ways to support them, and it’s also important to prioritise your own safety, well-being, and mental health during this phase of their life.

Simply telling them or complaining about their drinking is unlikely to have the desired effect. Accepting that they have a drinking problem or alcohol addiction can be a significant step forward, and maybe a pivotal moment in their recovery for when they are ready to make  changes.

It’s important to choose a calm environment and the right moment to share how their drinking affects you. Expressing the emotional and psychological impact their drinking has on you can be more effective rather than be seen as direct criticism which may increase resistance.

What if they say no?

There is always a chance that they may reject or challenge your thoughts around their drinking. I feel it is important to keep the communication and dialogue going, and to find a way to promote a way to keep discussing your concerns.
This may be around looking at reducing alcohol intake, or agreeing to alcohol free days. In this instant continuing to speak about the impact their drinking is having to allow a breakthrough for progress.

Alcohol Treatment Options-Including Detox/Rehabilitation

Depending on the amount your partner or loved one is drinking and for the length of time they may have built up a dependency to alcohol. Stopping abruptly is a risk to their physical health and could induce a alcohol related seizure which is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal:
-headaches
-sweating
-anxiety
-insomnia
-tremors
-increased heart rate

If you have concerns about your or someone’s physical health please contact 111 for out of hours advice and support. Or to attend your GP surgery for advice around accessing local treatment options for substance misuse support. However if you feel that there is immediate concern then calling an ambulance is needed for urgent medical attention. This may be having your withdrawal symptoms managed in a hospital or in a community setting while being fully assessed.

How does a detox work?

Under medical supervision, a medical detox can safely manage alcohol withdrawal, preparing you for further rehabilitation options. Medical detoxes are not available on the NHS, for alcohol, these are either through local substance misuse services, or via private facilities.

Post-detox, you might consider Residential Rehabilitation, where you would stay at a facility for up to 12 weeks. During this time, you would participate in group sessions and one-on-one therapy to reinforce your recovery. You’ll be living with peers who share the same goal of working towards a recovery-focused future.

This is where support from Addiction Counselling Sussex can play a vital role in your recovery journey. Engaging in one-on-one therapy, can be incredibly valuable after a stay in residential rehab. For some, residential rehabilitation may not be feasible for various reasons, but it’s still crucial to access support and treatment. In addition to one to one therapy you may also be considering support groups like AA/NA fellowship groups or SMART recovery groups in the community.

If you or your partner is reading this, please do get in touch if you have any questions?
When the time is right I would be happy to book in for an introductory session.

Thanks

James