The inability to control one's drinking habits is the most severe form of alcohol abuse, and it is known as alcoholism. The term "alcohol use disorder" is another common name for it. There are three kinds of alcohol use disorders: mild, sever, and moderate There are a variety of symptoms and potential adverse effects associated with each category.
Drinking alcohol first thing in the morning can spiral out of control if it is not treated. Individuals with alcoholism frequently have the impression that they are unable to function normally without alcohol. This can impact professional goals, personal matters, relationships, and overall health in a variety of ways. Consistent alcohol abuse can have serious side effects that get worse over time and lead to bad problems.
Alcoholism is a problem in the family, society, and on a personal level. The addicted person's health deteriorates as a result of alcoholism, resulting in liver, brain, and heart damage, disease, and ultimately death. People who are addicted are also more likely to get hurt, hurt someone else, have problems in their relationships, or have financial problems that affect their loved ones, especially their children. High healthcare costs, productivity losses, and drunk driving-related deaths and injuries are all effects of alcoholism on society.
IS DRINKING IN THE MORNING A SIGN OF ALCOHOLISM?
While most people are sipping on their morning coffee or tea, some individuals reach for a different kind of beverage: alcohol. This practice raises an important question: Is drinking in the morning a sign of alcoholism? While enjoying an occasional mimosa at brunch or a Bloody Mary on a special occasion is socially acceptable, daily morning drinking can be indicative of a deeper issue.
Drinking in the morning can indeed be a warning sign of this condition, and here we explore the reasons why.
- Cravings and Tolerance: One of the hallmark signs of alcoholism is an increased tolerance to alcohol, which leads individuals to consume more to achieve the desired effect. Morning drinking often occurs due to intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms experienced after a night's sleep. These symptoms can include sweating, trembling, and anxiety, and morning drinking becomes a way to alleviate them.
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Alcoholism often leads to a neglect of responsibilities at home, work, or in social life. Morning drinking can interfere with daily routines, such as showing up late for work or missing important commitments, and may serve as an early sign of this problem.
- Isolation: People struggling with alcoholism may become increasingly isolated, preferring to drink alone in the morning to avoid judgment or confrontation from loved ones. This isolation can exacerbate the issue as individuals become more entrenched in their addiction.
- Progressive Behaviour: Alcoholism tends to be a progressive condition, meaning it worsens over time. Morning drinking may start as an occasional occurrence but can gradually escalate into a daily habit, making it a significant cause for concern.
- Using Alcohol as a Coping Mechanism: Some individuals turn to alcohol as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or emotional pain. Morning drinking can be a way to numb these feelings, making it a sign that alcohol is being used to self-medicate, which is common in individuals with AUD.
- Health Consequences: Alcoholism is associated with numerous health problems, including liver disease, heart issues, and cognitive impairment. Morning drinking can accelerate these health consequences as it exposes the body to alcohol at a time when it should be in a state of recovery.
- Failed Attempts to Cut Down: Many people with alcoholism acknowledge the need to cut down or quit drinking but find themselves unable to do so. Morning drinking can be a clear indication that attempts to control alcohol intake have failed.
- Denial and Rationalisation: Denial is a common defence mechanism among individuals with AUD. They may rationalise their morning drinking by telling themselves it's a way to relax, unwind, or improve their mood. Recognising this rationalisation is crucial in identifying a problem.
- Relationship Strain: Alcoholism often strains relationships with family and friends due to erratic behaviour, mood swings, and unreliability. Morning drinking can exacerbate these relationship problems, leading to further isolation.
- Legal and Financial Issues: Alcoholism can lead to legal troubles, such as DUIs, and financial difficulties due to spending a significant portion of income on alcohol. Morning drinking can be a warning sign that these issues are escalating.