Social Drinker Vs. Addicted Drinker

When it comes to alcohol consumption, the line between being a social drinker and an addicted drinker can sometimes feel blurred. For many people, enjoying a drink or two with friends or family is a normal part of socializing. Drinking occasionally can either stay once in a while or result in needing the drinks while turning the casual into something more habitual and necessary. It's easy to overlook the shift from occasional enjoyment to dependency, but the impact it can have on one's life is significant. In this article, we'll highlight the subtle signs and patterns that differentiate a social drinker from someone who might be struggling with addiction and how to address these concerns with compassion and care.

Who Is A Social Drinker?

A social drinker is a person who consumes alcohol purely for social enjoyment. This may imply having a glass of alcohol at a party, occasionally hitting the club for a drink, or joining friends and loved ones for a few glasses at home. 

A social drinker may drink for a bit of fun or even to celebrate a significant event or major achievement that has happened in their life. Their main intention is usually not to 'get drunk' or 'forget their problems.'

They might have a drink to socialize or celebrate with loved ones, but they are not considered addicted, as they can set limits and stop when they've had enough. Additionally, they do not let alcohol interfere with their daily commitments, such as school or work.

It is worth noting that having a wild night out on a Friday and waking up with a hangover the next day doesn't automatically make the individual an alcoholic. However, if these occurrences start becoming the norm rather than the exception, it might be a sign that they're slipping into addiction. 

Social Drinking Vs. Addictive Drinking 

As earlier stated, not all social drinkers are on the brink of falling into a full-blown alcohol addiction. However, this casual drinking could quickly evolve, causing the individual to spend a lot of their time drinking alone. They can turn to the substance when bored or lonely and make it a regular part of their daily schedule.

Individuals who go from social drinking to struggling with alcohol may be able to fight the addiction on their own without assistance. Still, many individuals find this too much of a struggle to conquer without adequate intervention services. As they consume more alcohol, their tolerance naturally increases, making them drink even more to feel the same effects. 

Constantly engaging in social drinking can sometimes lead to a pattern of excessive drinking, frequently blacking out or finding themselves in a drunken state for days.

Even though social drinkers can function daily without giving the substance as much of a second thought, it is worth noting that this habit may evolve in their maturation process. The majority of them with an alcohol struggle can give up alcohol without any withdrawal symptoms, separating themselves from addictive drinkers. Addictive drinking is what happens when erratic consumption of the substance becomes a health disorder. It's an inability to cut back down on alcohol unless a professional intervenes to administer alcohol and substance use intervention services. Addictive drinkers are incapable of controlling their consumption amount as soon as they start. Oftentimes, a good number of these people struggling with this addiction will be in denial that they even have a struggle and will find ways to give excuses for their behavior, even if the state of the addiction worsens.

Long-term Effects Of Addictive Drinking

Some of the significant effects of addictive drinking include:

• Liver damage
• High blood pressure
• Cardiovascular disease and heart attack
• High risk of mouth, stomach, throat, breast, pancreatic, colon, and other cancers

Individuals who are struggling with alcohol addiction are also at increased risk of :

• Being victims of a sexual assault or other violent crime
• Causing or getting involved in a car accident
• Getting injured or dying from falling or drowning

It is important to note that prolonged periods of heavy drinking can result in physical dependence and addictive drinking. Addictive drinking is a complete loss of control over the individual's drinking. 

When Does Moderate Drinking Turn Out To Be A Problem?

Even though social drinking is usually not a problem, it can be easy to slip from being a moderate drinker to an addicted drinker. Major signs that a person may be over-consuming and showing addictive behaviors include:

• Neglecting Daily Responsibilities
  Alcohol addiction indicates that the consumption of alcohol by the individual consistently takes priority over essential responsibilities, such as work, school, or family commitments. For instance, the individual can find themselves drinking excessively despite having to go to work or school. This neglectful attitude is a sign of impaired self-control and a potential addiction.

• Using Alcohol as a Coping Mechanism
  Relying on alcohol to cope in difficult situations, such as discrimination, homophobia, or work-related stress, may be a sign of a slipping towards alcohol addiction. While an occasional drink to unwind is common, using alcohol as your primary coping mechanism for emotions, conflicts, and stress can indicate a serious struggle.

• Frequency
  When an individual engages in heavy consumption of alcohol regularly, it starts to affect their ability to use their common sense. As a result of this, they are unable to differentiate when they've had enough drinks or when even to stop drinking. Regularly drinking alcohol outside of mealtimes or arriving at social events already intoxicated are clear indicators of a problem

• Trying To Hide The Habit
  Most people who struggle with alcohol addiction hide their struggle from friends and loved ones. This can be in the form of enjoying drinks, hiding alcohol, or secretly pouring liquor into their cup. The activity of hiding the struggle is usually because they feel embarrassed about their lack of control of the substance when the habit is criticized. These people even prefer to spend time with other drinkers since they are less likely to be judged around them.

• Engaging In The Activity Of Drinking And Driving
  Most times, a social drinker can perceive when they are not in the right state to drive after a considerable intake of alcohol. This is in contrast to an addicted drinker who, due to increased tolerance and lowered common sense, is likely to risk it and get behind the wheel. This puts the individual and those around them in great danger.

Remember, you are not alone in this struggle. There are resources and support available to help you overcome your addiction. Don't hesitate to reach out for help. You have the power to change your life for the better. Get The Help You Need Today From Q Space Detox

If you or your LGBTQ+ loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction, taking that first step to seek help can be incredibly difficult. However, it is an important decision that can improve your life. Once you've recognized that you need assistance, finding the right treatment center becomes paramount in your journey to recovery.

At Q Space Detox, we understand the complexities of substance abuse. Moreover, we're dedicated to providing comprehensive support through our detox program, tailored to meet your needs and empower you on your path to a healthier, happier life. Don't hesitate to reach out to us today at 305-745-7768. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way toward lasting recovery. You don’t have to face this journey alone.