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Glendale Therapy Blog

Alcoholism

11/15/2012

Comments

 
I drink a bottle of wine every night- do you think that’s bad?
I sometimes have black outs from drinking, but I only drink on the weekends, is that a problem?
I need to drink a little bit so I can be comfortable around people, is that okay?
I’ve been to AA, but I’m not like those people, I don’t need a drink the second I wake up in the morning. I’m not an alcoholic, right?These are really common questions people ask about their drinking habits. Some people ask because are concerned themselves, but others are bothered by the worry expressed by friends or family members. What’s an alcoholic, really? My answer is always the same… Maybe, let’s take a look at some other things first:
  • Is your drinking causing you any health problems, including trouble sleeping and fatigue?
  • Are your personal relationships effected by your drinking, do people complain about your behavior and mood when you drink, are you fighting with your spouse about your drinking?
  • Is your ability to work hindered by your drinking?
  • Do you drink in dangerous situations, like drinking and driving?
  • Do you binge drink (5 drinks for men, 4 drinks for women)?
These are some for the criteria for Alcohol Abuse as described in the DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 4th Edition – the diagnosing manual used by psychotherapists). Alcohol abuse can lead to Alcohol Dependence, and both are often referred to more commonly by the less specific term, alcoholism. You can see all the criteria for each diagnosis here.
Alcohol Dependence is a label used when someone builds tolerance, experiences withdrawal, drinks more often and larger quantities than they intend to, and has tried to stop drinking, unsuccessfully. 
But my problem is not that bad… Well, you’re asking because it’s not that good either, right? Most people can drink in moderation (have a drink or two, occasionally) and be fine. However, with prolonged use comes greater risk of dependence – physical and psychological addiction, as well as negative health effects and disrupted relationships.Sometimes, people who use alcohol in excess are attempting to feel better about something else. For example, needing alcohol to feel more comfortable in social situations is a key indicator of social anxiety. There are always healthier ways to deal with trauma, anxiety, depression or other underlying, uncomfortable feelings. Self-care, talking to a friend, journaling, and of course, talking to a professional therapist are all reparative alternatives. It’s never too late to decide to do something about your alcohol abuse, but the sooner you start, the better.
(Obviously, none of the information contained in this post is a direct reference to any of my past or current clients, that information is always confidential. The quotes above reflect common questions and screening criteria for alcohol use)
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  • Glendale Therapist
    • Madlen Pashinian
  • Glendale Therapy Services
    • Couple Counseling
    • Individual Therapy
  • Links & Resources
  • Blog
  • Contact