Signs Your Spouse is Becoming an Alcoholic

Alcohol is the must abused drug in the United States, according to the American Medical Association. There are varying degrees and methods of alcohol abuse, including excessive consumption and chronic use of alcohol.

It is important to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse if you suspect your spouse may be on his or her way to becoming an alcoholic.

Signs your spouse is abusing alcohol
Alcohol abuse, is a pattern of use that can lead to dependence on alcohol. Warning signs that your spouse is abusing alcohol include the following:

*Risky behavior following the consumption of alcohol that puts their life or the life of another at risk. This includes drinking and driving.

*Alcohol has lead to relationship problems with family and friends.

*Drinking has interfered with your spouse's ability to perform daily tasks, such as personal care and hygiene or school and work commitments.

Signs your spouse is an alcoholic
Left unchecked, alcohol abuse by your spouse leads to alcohol dependence, also known as alcoholism. Once your spouse develops a tolerance to alcohol, requiring more and more to reach a point of intoxication, it is an indication that they are becoming alcohol dependent.

The most obvious sign of becoming an alcoholic is when someone experiences the negative consequences associated with alcohol, but refuses to quit drinking. Your spouse may feel compelled to drink.

Additional warning signs that your spouse may be an alcoholic include:
*The inability to stick to a limit when drinking. If your spouse sets a limit, but once they begin drinking they quickly ignore pre-established limits or admonition from friends and family, it is a good indication that they have a problem with alcohol.

*Your spouse's tolerance for alcohol seems to be increasing. It takes more and more drinking for them to feel intoxicated.

*Despite their best attempts, your spouse cannot cut down on drinking.

*When they try to quit or cut back your spouse experience withdrawals which may include tremors, sweating, and nausea.

*Your spouse continues to drink despite problems it is causing you in their personal and professional life.

*You notice that your spouse begins to think about living from one drink to the next.

If you have noticed a marked increase of these symptoms of alcoholism over the past several months your spouse may have developed alcohol dependence. If this is the case, encourage them to seek medical attention. Don't allow drinking to carry you and your family further than you want to go and pay more than you are willing to pay.

Abuse of alcohol can cause long-term debilitating effects to the body, physically and emotionally. It is important to get help if you believe your spouse is on the road to becoming an alcoholic.

Sources:
10 Signs You are an Alcoholic, Healthmad.com
"Alcohol Dependence," American Medical Association Complete Guide to Prevention and Wellness, 2008: AMA.
Alcoholics Info
Alcoholism Facts, medicinenet.com