Drinking Too Much? You May Need Professional Psychological Help

While there’s no doubt that drinking can be fun – and even encouraged – in today’s society, that doesn’t mean that there are no risks to consuming alcohol. In fact, because of the way that drinking is endorsed, many people find that they end up drinking far too much than is healthy.

It can be difficult to tell exactly how much alcohol is too much, even though the NIH says otherwise. It can also be difficult to reach out and seek help. In this article, we’re going to help you understand whether or not you’re drinking too much and how to seek help if you feel you need it.

How Do I Know If I’m Drinking Too Much?

What is ‘too much’ for one person may not be ‘too much’ for the next. Some people may find that going out with their friends once a week for drinks is fine; others may find this to be a bit excessive.

Here are some signs and symptoms that could indicate that you’re drinking too much alcohol.

• Spending more money than you intended to. A good way to avoid this is to take out a set amount of money before going out to a bar.
  
• Missing appointments or other engagements to go drink.
• Feeling that you need a drink to socialize or feel comfortable.
  
• Drinking multiple days in a row. This is also known as binge drinking.
  
• Experiencing mild or serious alcohol withdrawal. Symptoms like anxiety, shaking, nausea, confusion, or social withdrawal are common mild withdrawal symptoms.

There are many other signs that will tell you if you have an alcohol problem as well. If you notice that you’re experiencing any of the above things, it could indicate that your alcohol consumption is beyond what is healthy for you. It could be worth your time to reach out for someone to talk to. At the very least, this will help you determine whether or not you actually have a problem.

Seeking Professional Help

Seeking professional help can be difficult for some people. In some places, counseling and therapy has been stigmatized, and people tend to avoid it for fear of being judged. Rest assured, taking care of yourself before problems affect your health is very important, and these things are known to be very effective.

• Traditional counseling and therapy. Traditional counseling and therapy are arguably the most effective ways for dealing with addictions or potential addictions. Book a quick session with an addiction counselor to see if you’re actually in need of further help.
  
• E-counseling. For those who are still concerned about seeking traditional help, online therapy is always an option. Online therapy allows people to engage with qualified counselors and addiction therapists from the comfort of their computer or their smartphone. There are a few e-counseling companies and therapists that can help you.

Conclusion

Alcohol addiction is a real thing, and it often sneaks up out of nowhere. If you think you might be at risk for developing a problem with alcohol, it’s important to seek help before the problem gets serious.