Signs You May Be Dating an Alcoholic

When dating someone with a drinking habit, it may be hard to know when to stay and when to get out. However, there are signs to consider as to whether a problem truly exists. Plenty of people in the US who drink do not have a problem but not every person can moderate drinking. If the habit is more severe, it may be that the person is an alcoholic. Learn what the signs are and whether the loved one needs help.

Changes to Look For

People who struggle with alcohol addiction try to hide drinking problems and sometimes the changes are noticeable, sometimes not. Although this may be minor at first, it may cause serious problems later down the road. Some changes can include the following:

Neglecting people and activities previously important

Higher risk taking activities

Lack of personal and hygienic care

Unexplained accidents or injuries

Drinking more than intended every time alcohol is around

Anger and irritability towards loved ones

Continuous drinking despite negative consequences

Physical Symptoms of Alcoholism

Any person who has developed an addiction to alcohol will experience withdrawal symptoms if the person goes too long without a drink. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms may appear anytime 6 to 48 hours after a person stops drinking. Mild symptoms of withdrawal every once in awhile, even if loved ones are not trying to quit drinking. Some symptoms may include:

Mild anxiety

Light to excessive sweating

Nausea

Vomiting

Headaches

Trouble sleeping

After 24 hours from the last drink, more extreme symptoms emerge. If the loved one is trying to stop drinking without help, some of the more severe symptoms may begin such as disorientation, high blood pressure and even seizures.

What to Do

When a loved one is suspected of struggling with alcoholism, finding professional help is the most loving and kind thing to do as a next step. People can have access to resources, professional help and courteous staff who provide a pathway to recovery that otherwise may not be available to the person including individual and family based therapeutic intervention which dives into the root causes of addiction. Once treatment ends, aftercare support can be provided that will help set up the individual for important and necessary life skills and job placement opportunities to get started on sober living.

Blueprints for Recovery supports young people facing addiction. If you are looking for treatment options to support recovery, we provide a unique approach that is specially tailored towards young adults. Contact us for more information and how to get help.