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There’s nothing better than having a glass of something strong to relax you on a Friday night. It’s harmless, right? Maybe so, but it can lead to something much worse. Alcoholism is a harmful, dangerous disease. If you suspect one of your friends is going down that path, it’s crucial you act fast to stop the spiraling. Before you can act, you need to be sure your suspicions are right. Don’t fall out with your friend by jumping to the wrong conclusions. Some people drink more than others, and it can be hard to detect when there’s a problem. Here are some signs you should look out for if you’re worried that your friend might have a drinking problem.
Drinking Problem Sign #1: He or She is Always Drinking
This may be an obvious one, but it’s worth mentioning. If your friend always has a drink in his or her hand, it’s the first sign something’s wrong. Still, don’t jump to the worst conclusion. Consider the occasions first. Have you met in the evenings? What has the situation been? If other people were drinking, maybe your friend’s behavior isn’t strange at all. If, however, it was the middle of the day or the morning, and no one else was drinking, it’s more concerning.
You know your friend. Is it normal for them to drink as much as they have been? Make sure to ask them if anything’s going on. They may be drinking because they’re upset or battling the wounded child within. It’s possible all they need to combat their drinking is a shoulder to cry on and someone to listen.
Drinking Problem Sign #2: Self-destructive or Reckless Behavior
Individuals under the influence of alcohol or drugs can often act recklessly. But, this doesn’t necessarily mean that a drinking problem exists. However, if it is excessive and seems to happen frequently, your friend could be in trouble. Ask yourself these questions: Does your friend seem to be taking unnecessary risks all the time? Is he or she drinking and driving? Does he or she make poor decisions where work, school, or relationships are concerned? If this sort of behavior is evident, it’s time to speak up.
Try to dissuade your friend from any reckless behavior you notice. Don’t let them drive drunk. Don’t let them into risky situations, such as fights, going home with strangers, or being in other hazardous situations. When people drink heavily, they lose awareness of what’s happening around them and what might be potentially dangerous. Ensure your friend doesn’t cross a line they can’t come back from. Try to dissuade them from any decisions you think they’re likely to regret.
I’ve known quality people who have made very poor decisions when dealing with alcohol abuse. One friend even found herself in an accident and with a DWI. It’s a hard place to be for anyone. The consequences can be devastating to the offender and others as well. This is when outside help will be needed, such as that from a therapist or treatment center. Additionally, attorneys, like those at Scheiner Law Group can handle your DWI worries, but it won’t be easy to pick your friend back up! Just let him or her know you are there.
Drinking Problem Sign #3: Appearance and Habits Change
Excessive alcohol use can affect the way you look and feel most of the time. It’s dehydrating, so it can make skin dull and lackluster. It can also make you sick enough to miss work, school, and other important events. Is your friend missing work or looking especially tired or hung over lately? Again, you can ask if there is something he or she wants to talk about before you draw any conclusions. Pay attentions to any patterns and try to be diplomatic about how you handle any confrontation. This will be more delicate if you are the boss or a co-worker.
Once you’re sure there’s a problem, it can be hard knowing how to act. With your friend already volatile, it might not be best talking to them directly. It’s not nice to talk behind people’s backs, but you could discuss your concerns with mutual friends or family. It’ll be reassuring to know other people have noticed the behavior, too. It will also allow you to discuss how to move forward. Whatever you do, don’t approach your friend as a group. They’re more likely to feel victimized if confronted by many people at once. If possible, contact your friend’s family and let them know what’s happening. No one can know your friend better than they do, and they may have a better idea of how to handle things.
**** This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your health care provider. Women’s lifelink, it’s owners, administrators, contributors, affiliates, vendors, authors and editors do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or improve any condition or disease.
