The stereotypical alcoholic as depicted on television and in films lives in a filthy apartment, has lost their job and their family and swigs neat vodka from a bottle as soon as they wake up in the morning. 

This version of an alcoholic probably does exist, but it isn’t the norm. There are an increasing number of ‘high functioning’ alcoholics who are holding down a job, have a family and appear to have their lives together on the outside, but on the inside their dependence on drinking is taking a toll. The problem with the very extreme version of alcoholism depicted in the media is that it can convince people who have a problem that they don’t, because ‘at least they aren’t as bad as that guy.’ This denial then means that people don’t seek the help they need.

How Much Is Too Much?

According to WebMD, heavy drinking is classed as having more than three drinks in one day or seven in a week for women, and more than four in one day or fourteen in a week for men. 

Of course, these figures are guidelines. You could drink less than this and still have a problem with alcohol if it’s having a negative impact on your life or your health.

What Are the Signs You Have A Problem?

A major sign that you have a problem with alcohol is when your friends or family members speak to you about your alcohol consumption, even if it’s in a joking way. If this is happening to you, it’s a good idea to examine your alcohol consumption.

Some other signs that you have an alcohol problem are:

• Not keeping up with your responsibilities at home, school or work because of drinking or being hungover.
• Having problems in your personal relationships due to your alcohol consumption, but still not stopping drinking.
• Feeling that you need alcohol in order to have a good time on a night out, or to relax or feel confident.
• Find yourself hiding your drinking or lying about it.
• Facing legal problems due to your drinking, such as anti-social behaviors you carried out while intoxicated or getting a DUI.
• Drinking while alone.
• ‘Blacking out’ and being unable to remember what you did while drinking.
• Finding that family and friends are worrying about how much you drink.
• Going out for one drink and ending up getting drunk.

Chances are if you have asked yourself “is my drinking a problem?” that you would benefit from professional help regarding your relationship with alcohol.

How Do You Get Help?

The most important part of addressing your issues with alcohol is to talk to someone. Treatment centers like Harris House offer both inpatient and outpatient programs which are designed to help you to take responsibility for your addiction. Their certified counselors will work with you to create a recovery plan that is individual to you, treating your whole body, mind and spirit.

Suppose this doesn’t sound like the right approach for you. In that case, you can also consult with your doctor who will be able to refer you on to the proper treatment for you, or you could look for a 12 step program in your area which will provide a supportive community to aid your recovery.