It can be difficult to see when your drinking habits cross the line from moderate and social drinking to a form of problem drinking. When we start consuming alcohol as a coping mechanism for life’s difficulties and negative emotions, we enter a potentially dangerous area. The truth is that alcohol addiction can quickly take hold, so it’s very important that we are aware of the warning signs and seize the initiative to cut back if we identify them. As the saying goes, “the first step to solving a problem is recognizing that there is a problem.”

While there are plenty of warning signs and symptoms of alcohol dependence or addiction, some are more telling than others. If you are wondering “Do I have a drinking problem?”, then read the statements below. If you relate to one or more of these three symptoms, you may have a problem and should seek assistance.

If you lie, deny, hide, or omit facts regarding the amount of your drinking to friends, family, or coworkers, you may have a drinking problem.

If you feel a frequent urge to drink in order to relax, reduce anxiety, or ‘take the edge off,’ you might have a drinking problem.

If you commonly “black out” or forget what you did while you are drinking, you may have a drinking problem.

Because drinking is so common here in Louisiana and the effects of alcohol vary widely from person to person, it’s not always easy to determine where the line is between social drinking and alcoholism. Ultimately, if your drinking is causing problems in your life, you have a drinking problem.

If you are concerned that you may have a drinking problem, you may want to contact one of our care specialists. They are available 24 hours a day at 337-347-9307 for any questions or to schedule an assessment, free of charge. We can also be reached via our contact us page.

-Andrea Rayburn

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