Communicating Concern For A Loved One’s Alcoholism

Communicating concern for a loved one’s alcoholism is an act that takes a great deal of strength, love, and courage. In most cases, it may appear easier to simply look the other way, though, in order for your relationship and your friend to continue, the issue must be addressed. Though the process can be emotionally draining, it is often far less complex than you might expect. In this entry, we will walk you though a few tips to help you express your concerns.

1 – Determine a location. Though it may seem natural to stage the conversation in a home setting, these areas often serve to create feelings of anxiety, defensiveness, and aggression. Opting for a quiet and neutral spot where you can both express yourselves will be ideal for subduing any harsh feelings and avoiding interruption.

2 – Choose your words wisely. Be compassionate, but focused. Beating around the bush will only increase defensive feelings, and will do little to serve your end goal.

Try using the word “I” more than the word “you.” “You are doing…” comes off much more aggressive than “I feel that…”

Plan out what you want to say beforehand to help ensure a smoother conversation. The better prepared you are, the easier this whole deal will be.

3 – Offer your support. Make sure to communicate your compassion and commitment to the relationship. The more positive you are, the better the chances your point will be well received. 

If you have a friend or family member struggling with an alcohol dependency, out Above It All treatment specialists are available to help. Give us a call today, and let us help your loved one back on track towards the happy, healthy, and fulfilling life they deserve. 

Stages Of Alcoholism

Alcoholism is viewed by most experts as a chronic condition, which must be addressed as such. Just as an individual with diabetes must manage their condition throughout life, so must the alcoholic.

Considerations

Certain people are able to abuse alcohol for many years before slipping into the grasp of addiction. Others notice the beginning stages of alcoholism after only a few experiences. An array of factors come into consideration when determining who is at risk for alcoholism. Heredity is one.

First Stage

The drinker begins using to self-medicate. The alcohol serves to reduce anxiety and release inhibition in the individual, resulting in a minor dependence. In some cases, alcoholics will only take part in events that revolve around alcohol use; withdrawing from those where it is prohibited.

Second Stage

The pattern of addiction is now more apparent. The alcoholic drinks more regularly and lacks the discipline to control their intake. Blackouts, hangovers and stomach issues are common occurrences by stage two, and the alcoholic is immersed in denial. Stage two is also the period where employment and relationships begin to take a back seat.

Third Stage

Addiction is king and holds priority over all else, including friends, family, employment and even morals. The alcoholic often finds themselves struggling with finances and health issues.

Consequences

An alcoholic who has reached the third stage of addiction must seek immediate help from a specialized addiction treatmentfacility. For friends and family members, this may be the time to consider an intervention or other form of pressure to help push recovery.

How To Spot A Binge Drinker

Alcoholism is a serious issue affecting millions of people throughout the world. But in some cases, it may prove difficult to tell whether a person actually has an issue. When it comes to binge drinking – drinking an excessive amount of alcohol in a short period of time – there are a few signs to look for when determining whether someone has a problem. 

1 – Understand the difference between social and binge drinking. Social drinking commonly occurs at public or group events, such as a dinner party, BBQ, or night out with the girls. Social drinkers may indulge in a drink… maybe two, for the sake of being social. Maybe that second drink turns into a forth or fifth; Perhaps the individual becomes loud and belligerent; Do we even know what the count is anymore?  At this point, you may be looking at a binge drinker.

2 – Keep an eye out for the “point of no return.” For many alcohol enthusiasts, a fork in the road will present itself: Full steam ahead or full stop. This point can be in the middle of a drink, between drinks, or full abstention. Maintaining the ability to control this decision is often a deciding factor in whether or not you are dealing with a more serious issue. 

3 – Take an empty bottle inventory. Towards the end of the evening, set out all of the night’s empty bottles and take an accurate count to determine how much has been consumed.

4 – Take a close look at the drinker’s health to help identify a drinking problem. Measuring hangover intensity is a great way to determine whether or not someone is binging. Light headaches and a little crankiness is one thing… A debilitating migraine, blackouts and “couch days” are another.

5 – To determine whether a real binge has taken place, take a look around the home the following day for “crossover” drinking signs. This form of drinking refers to instances in which an individual consumes all the booze they have brought to an event, before proceeding to invade other sources. An empty liquor shelf or wine cellar is a red flag. A dry keg is a much stronger signal.

Need Help?

When looking for the best alcohol and chemical dependency treatment centers, Los Angeles residents call Above It All. 

5 Faces of Celebrity Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a physical addiction affecting the mental health, physical health, and familial, social, and work-related aspects of the afflicted individual. Alcohol becomes priority in the person’s life, dominating relationships and ambition. Alcoholism in celebrities can pose serious harm to the star’s career, public and personal life, while inhibiting or diminishing their success.

Truman Capote

In Cold Blood and Breakfast at Tiffany’s writer Truman Capote struggled publicly with drug addiction and alcoholism. The famed Novelist entered rehab during the 1970’s, but due to his already compromised state, died at age 59 in 1984. Truman’s failure to complete his final, unfinished offering, Unanswered Prayershas since been blamed on his prolonged substance issues.

Billy Joel

The Piano Man has admitted to a long struggle with alcohol abuse during adulthood. According to Joel, drinking was able to inhibit his personal relationships and career. Joel entered a rehabilitation facility following pleas from fellow musician Elton John. He remains clean and sober to this day.

Stephen King

The novelist behind classics, Stand by Me, Carrie, and TheGreen Mile struggled with alcohol and drug abuse for years. King entered treatment following a 1987 intervention by friends and family members and has maintained his sobriety ever since.

Robin Williams

Actor/Comedian Robin Williams dabbled in alcohol and cocaine abuse during his early career, but decided to quit following the death of friend John Belushi in 1982. When Williams began hitting the bottle again in 2006, he sought immediate treatment for his addiction. These days, Robin Williams is dry as dirt.

Ernest Hemingway

Perhaps the world’s most well-known literary alcoholic, Hemingway used alcohol heavily throughout his life. Over time, the writer experienced extreme physical and mental issues, aggravated by continued consumption. Ernest Hemingway chose to end his own life prematurely at age 61.

Need Help?

Searching for an alcohol abuse recovery center near LA? Above it All is the place to call! Pick up the phone today, and let our team of alcohol and addiction specialists help you back on track towards the healthy, happy, and fulfilling life you deserve.