Do I Have a Drinking Problem? 5 Signs of an Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol is deeply ingrained in social culture, sometimes making it difficult to recognize when drinking becomes a problem. What starts as casual or social drinking can sometimes escalate into a dependency that affects health, relationships, and daily life.

Magnolia Medical Group in Denver and Wheat Ridge, Colorado, wants to help. Our team has the expertise and compassion required to help you identify substance abuse and its underlying triggers. We also create personalized treatment strategies to help you overcome daily challenges and develop long-term goals.

If you’ve ever questioned whether your drinking habits are problematic, here are five signs of alcohol addiction to consider.

1. Increased tolerance

Over time, your body adapts to alcohol, requiring more significant amounts to achieve the same effects. If you find yourself drinking more than before to feel relaxed or buzzed, it may indicate a developing tolerance—a potential red flag for alcohol dependence.

2. Loss of control

Do you often plan to have just one or two drinks but consume much more? Struggling to control how much or how often you drink, despite setting limits, can be a sign of addiction.

If you frequently regret the amount you drank or find yourself making excuses to drink more, it’s time to evaluate your habits.

3. Neglecting responsibilities

Alcohol addiction often interferes with daily responsibilities. Missing work, neglecting family obligations, or failing to keep up with personal commitments due to drinking are warning signs.

When alcohol takes priority over essential aspects of your life, it may indicate a problem.

4. Drinking to cope

Many people use alcohol to relieve stress, anxiety, or emotional pain. However, if you find yourself relying on alcohol as a coping mechanism rather than occasional enjoyment, it could be a sign of dependence.

Using alcohol as an escape can create a cycle that makes it even harder to stop.

5. Withdrawal symptoms

Experiencing withdrawal symptoms—such as shakiness, sweating, nausea, anxiety, or irritability—when not drinking is a strong indicator of physical dependence. If you need alcohol to feel “normal,” your body may be dependent on it.

What to do if you suspect a problem

If you relate to one or more of these signs, consider speaking with one of our healthcare professionals at Magnolia Medical Center.

Addressing the issue early can help prevent negative consequences and lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life. If you’re unsure about your drinking habits, a self-assessment quiz or confiding in a trusted friend may help. You’re not alone, and help is available.

Treating alcohol abuse disorder

At Magnolia Medical Center, our experts take a comprehensive approach to treating substance abuse disorder.

Our harm reduction model recognizes that recovery looks different for everyone and provides individuals with tools to reduce harm while working toward healthier habits.

Your personalized strategy may include:

• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
• Substance use counseling
• Supervised peer support groups
• Dual diagnosis treatment

Dual diagnosis therapies address underlying diagnoses (anxiety, depression, etc. that may be fueling your alcohol dependence.

If you relate to one or more of these signs of alcohol addiction, consider scheduling a visit at Magnolia Medical Center today. Call the office or request an appointment online.