5 Signs That It’s Time to Quit Drinking

Drinking alcoholic beverages has become a socially acceptable practice at family gatherings, special occasions, parties and a part of everyday life. People drink to feel relaxed, lower inhibitions, and because it is the thing to do at certain occasions like a wedding. There is a responsible way to drink and then there are signs drinking has gotten out of hand. How do you know if it’s time to quit drinking? Here is what to look for if you have concerns for about someone’s drinking habits, including your own.

Tolerance

Men and women, across the board, are drinking more on average than in previous years. More than 38 million adults binge, or drink more than the recommended amount in a sitting, four times per month or more. For men, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has found five or more drinks in a sitting constitutes binge drinking. The real number is closer to eight drinks on average. The more you drink, the more your body needs to achieve the same result, leading to a higher tolerance level and, perhaps, an inability to tell when you have had “too much” to drink. If you’re binge drinking regularly, it may be time to quit drinking.

Comments from Friends and Loved Ones

One of the best barometers for your behavior will be feedback from the people you surround yourself with on a regular basis. Colleagues, bosses, partners, spouses, other loved ones, and friends are the most likely to notice changes in your behavior. A few things to note which may be warning signs are comments on how your drinking seems excessive on a consistent basis or having people explain things you did under the influence which you don’t remember. If you consistently forget your drinking binges, it is time to quit drinking. The people around you are the people who care about you, so listen closely and pay attention. They may want you to seek alcohol treatment. They have your best interest at heart and don’t want to see you, or anybody else, get hurt.

Daredevil Behavior

Alcohol and substances lower inhibitions. If you notice a change in how you act while drinking, taking more risks, seeking opportunities to do things you normally wouldn’t do, or engaging in unhealthy behaviors such as drinking while driving, it may be time to quit drinking. The legal ramifications can be very damaging, but the consequences in your relationships and ability to hold down a job and lead a productive life are very real. If you don’t know how to quit drinking a medical detox is the first step.

Health

Alcohol abuse has detrimental effects on your body. If your liver enzymes are abnormal, it may be time to speak with someone about your drinking. If you have problems with your throat or stomach, seek medical attention and advice from your doctor as these also could be related to the alcohol use. These problems will continue to get worse unless you seek help immediately. Any of these signs could mean you need to quit drinking.

Irresponsible Conduct

If you show up late for family gatherings, work, miss important functions or seem unable to cope with participation in regular activities, it may be time to seek help. A drinking problem can cause you to act irresponsibly and make excuses for your poor behavior.Assess your drinking habits and ask yourself if you notice one or more of these apply to you. If so, seek help immediately. If you don’t know how to quit drinking, then our addiction treatment program can help you. The Last Resort has extensive treatment and recovery programs designed to help you get your life back together. It is never too late to ask for help when it comes to alcohol addiction. The sooner you do, the earlier you can begin the process of recovery.The signs of problem drinking are easy to deny. If you need help to learn how to quit drinking, The Last Resort is here to help. Call us today at 512-750-6750.