How Can You Tell If Your Partner Is Alcoholic?

Having a partner who is an alcoholic can be emotionally draining and difficult. Knowing the warning signs of alcohol abuse can help a person get the help they need if they struggle with alcoholism.

In this blog, we'll talk about the warning signs that could indicate your partner has an alcohol problem, how to broach the subject with tact, and what you can do to help them through this challenging time.

Is Your Partner An Alcoholic?

Many people find it challenging to respond to this question because the indicators of an alcoholic are subtle and easy to miss. For one thing, the general public lacks the information necessary to determine if another person is struggling with alcohol use disorder.

Even if you know the ins and outs of alcoholism, your partner may be a high-functioning alcoholic skilled at hiding their disease from others.

It can be especially difficult for loved ones of alcoholics to recognise the signs of their disorder when the alcoholic presents an outward appearance of normalcy. To combat alcoholism effectively, it is essential to recognise the warning signs and get help from experts.

Signs Of An Alcoholic Partner

In other words, AUD gets worse over time. The signs, contrary to common belief, are not always obvious. If a person at risk for developing an alcohol use disorder keeps drinking, more and more warning signals will appear until the problem fully manifests.

If you're worried that your significant other may be developing an alcohol use disorder, here are some signs to keep an eye out for.

Their Social Life Is Centred On Drinking

Signs of alcohol use disorder include hanging out exclusively with people who drink or going to events where alcohol is present.

Those with drinking problems, for instance, could skip a Little League game in favour of attending a college football game and tailgating parties. On rare occasions, they might accompany you to the movies, but afterwards, they'll likely suggest hitting a bar instead.

Those with alcoholism are more likely to hang out with drinkers and frequent gatherings where booze is readily available. They may avoid getting sober and develop a negative attitude towards sober people. They might sneak booze into work, start drinking at dawn, or drink themselves silly all day.

Drinking To Feel Happy, Relieve Stress, Mourn, And Celebrate.

There's no denying that a few drinks can put a spring in your partner's step, but if that's all it takes for them to feel better about life, there may be deeper problems. A healthy person winds down each day by engaging in a pastime, physical activity, or relaxing.

Emotionally healthy people may occasionally turn to alcohol. Still, they also have other options, such as talking to a friend, getting some exercise, or venting their feelings in some other way. Those who suffer from alcohol use disorder often rely solely on alcohol when faced with stressful situations.

Almost everyone can relate to longing for a specific dish or drink. Individuals who suffer from AUD have an increased desire for alcoholic beverages, which may take precedence over other obligations and relationships. This desire may be described as a need by your partner.

They Do Not Appear Intoxicated.

A person's tolerance to alcohol can increase to the point where they don't start showing signs of intoxication until they've had quite a few drinks. Because of their increased tolerance, they now need to drink more than before to feel the effects of alcohol.

A person's tolerance to alcohol can build up to the point where they don't start showing signs of intoxication until they've had quite a few drinks. They need more than one or two drinks now to feel the same way they did when they only drank occasionally.

They Drink To Get Drunk.

Signs of alcoholism include your partner drinking to the point of intoxication on a regular basis and expressing a desire to get drunk quickly.

To alleviate any anxiety they may have about the event or the people who will be there, alcoholics will often start drinking well in advance of the event. It's important to communicate with your partner about the negative effects of excessive drinking on your life and your relationship.

An alcoholic may only be able to drink one drink before they need to switch to water. They could drink heavily or get drunk and might not even realise it or tell anyone. These people may have terrifyingly high tolerances, and they drink not to get drunk but to feel normal and stop withdrawal symptoms.

They Make Up Excuses To Drink

Normal and even encouraged alcohol intake is commonplace in many cultures. Those who suffer from AUD may rationalise their excessive drinking as a response to the ease with which alcohol can be obtained, even if doing so has negative consequences for their physical and social well-being.

Your partner may choose to drink on multiple occasions when the choice is between drinking and participating in an important event. If you've noticed that they've been drinking more and spending less time on hobbies or other interests, it may be time to have a conversation about what's important to them.

Alcoholism is to blame when drinking is the primary focus of one's time. If you or someone you care about shows signs of alcohol dependence, such as prioritising drinking over spending time with family and friends, get help immediately. Share with your partner that you believe it is in your best interests to seek professional help.

Loss Of Memory And Blackouts.

It's never a good idea to imbibe so much that you lose track of time or forget important details. Blackouts and memory lapses after drinking could be signs of alcoholism in your partner.

Anxiety and depression are just two mental health issues that can become more severe with heavy alcohol use. Your companion may report feeling depressed, lethargic, forgetful, and even experiencing "blackouts" after consuming alcohol.

Their Personalities Change.

A person's mood can change dramatically after a few drinks, even if they don't appear intoxicated. When intoxicated, someone who is normally shy and reserved may become aggressive and abusive with words.

People who normally control their emotions may become overly expressive and emotional after consuming alcohol. Abrupt changes in personality are cause for concern and may point to an alcohol abuse problem.

These shifts in disposition should be taken seriously because they may indicate an underlying alcohol abuse problem and have a negative effect on interpersonal relationships.

They Are Alarmingly Tolerant Of The Majority Of People.

The amount of alcohol someone can safely consume is based on size, gender, and diet. But as alcohol consumption rises, so does an alcoholic's tolerance.

According to a therapist and life coach at a prestigious addiction treatment facility, this can result in severe alcohol dependence, permanent organ damage, and even death. If your significant other can drink a lot and still seem fine, their body may be developing a tolerance.

Some people with AUD need to drink more and more to feel the same way they did when they drank less. Developing a tolerance is something that your partner will primarily notice in their own body, making it difficult for an outside observer to tell if they are doing so.

However, if your partner is building up a tolerance, they may consume more alcohol than they used to. They may also note that reaching that "buzzed" or "intoxicated" state takes longer.

Despite Their Relationship Issues, They Continue To Drink.

Signs of alcohol use disorder include a persistent desire to drink despite negative consequences for personal relationships. As your relationship struggles, you may also observe your partner withdrawing from their social circle. They might be less seen and heard from in public and prefer to spend more time alone at home.

Your partner may also be hanging out with new people who support or discourage their drinking. While making new friends isn't inherently indicative of AUD, you may find that your partner drinks more with their new friends, especially if those people are heavy drinkers themselves.

Drinking Disrupts Responsibilities.

All alcoholics eventually deteriorate in their ability to carry out their personal or professional duties. These can range from being too drunk to function at work to causing a major rift in the family over the holidays.

Your partner may have trouble pitching in around the house if they are frequently absent due to alcohol-related illness or exhaustion. They may struggle to care for their children or keep up with household duties if they have a family or pets.

When They Don't Drink, They Become Irritable

A person's demeanour can change significantly after drinking, even if they are generally pleasant when sober. Their relationships may suffer as a result of their increased irritability and inappropriate anger.

Their loved ones may feel threatened by this abrupt change in behaviour, which can spark arguments and misunderstandings.

These symptoms may point to alcohol abuse, so it's important to be aware of them and respond appropriately. You can greatly improve their happiness and the quality of their relationships by encouraging them to get the help they need.

They Begin To Sneak Around.

Your partner may be on the path to alcoholism if he claims to have to work late but then comes home drunk. If your partner is dishonest about how much or how often they are drinking, the problem will only worsen. Vodka may soon replace other liquors as their beverage due to its less detectable odour.

Many alcoholics in relationships will also put their booze away in strange places so their partner won't suspect anything is wrong with their drinking. You could try talking to your partner about your concerns and asking them why they think you suspect them of lying.

They Frequently Consume More Alcohol Than Intended

Your partner may plan to limit their alcohol intake or call it a night at a predetermined time. However, it can be extremely challenging to call it a night after a predetermined number of drinks if they are struggling with AUD.

They may not want to drink but find themselves unable to resist when in the company of alcoholics; they may promise to have only one or two drinks but end up having more.

Drinking Even When Impaired Is Dangerous.

One of the most concerning indicators of alcoholism is drinking before engaging in potentially hazardous activities like driving, rock climbing, using machinery, or being at the helm of a boat. These people have an abnormally high rate of injuries and accidents, as they are more likely to engage in risky behaviour while intoxicated than they would be while sober.

People's inhibitions are often lowered by alcohol, leading them to make unsafe and unhealthy choices. Everyday tasks become more perilous when alcohol is involved, including swimming, driving, using machinery, having sex, and even going for a stroll around the block.

They Do Not Stick To A Single Brand.

Someone with alcoholism won't drink the same way most social drinkers do, favouring less common drinks. They won't be picky about the booze they drink and will consume whatever is available. The underlying problem, an inability to manage or stop drinking, is the same regardless of the type or brand of alcohol they consume.

This change in behaviour is highly suggestive of an alcohol abuse problem. Family and friends are aware of and able to respond to these warning signs can encourage the person to seek help and improve their chances of a full recovery.

They Show Withdrawal Symptoms.

You should get help immediately if your partner tries to cut back on drinking but then experiences withdrawal symptoms, including headaches, nausea, tremors, irritability, anxiety, hallucinations or seizures. They withdraw when they try to cut back on their alcohol consumption.

This is why alcoholics can't go for long periods of time without drinking since their bodies need the substance to function normally. Seek immediate medical attention for hallucinations or seizures; even if withdrawal symptoms are mild, it's still a good idea to see a doctor.

Maybe your mate has tried to cut back on drinking, or they just ran out of alcohol for a while. During those times, they might have experienced withdrawal symptoms like the ones listed below:

In severe cases of AUD, these symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and are often treated in a rehabilitation program. 

• Anxiety
• Nausea
• Irritability
• Depression
• Hallucinations
• Restlessness
• Trouble sleeping
• Shakiness and sweating

A Lot Of Their Time Is Spent Drinking.

Despite its obvious appearance, AUD is almost always characterised by excessive drinking. The definition of AUD typically does not include the quantity or frequency of alcohol use, so that it can refer to either binge drinking on the weekend or occasional drinking episodes during the week. As a bystander, it may be hard to tell when the situation has gotten out of hand.

In the end, if your partner's drinking is starting to become a problem in their life, this may be grounds for an AUD diagnosis, which is always something that a licensed healthcare professional should make.

Conclusion 

Alcoholism can be emotionally draining and difficult to identify, but knowing the warning signs of alcohol abuse can help individuals get help. The general public often lacks information to determine if someone is struggling with alcohol use disorder. It can be difficult for loved ones of alcoholics to recognize the signs of their disorder when the alcoholic presents an outward appearance of normalcy.

Signs of alcohol use disorder include a focus on drinking, spending time with people who drink, and frequenting events where alcohol is readily available. These individuals may avoid getting sober and develop a negative attitude towards sober people. They may also drink to feel happy, relieve stress, mourn, and celebrate, which may be deeper problems.

Emotionally healthy people may occasionally turn to alcohol, but those with alcohol use disorder often rely solely on alcohol when faced with stressful situations. They may have an increased desire for alcoholic beverages, which may take precedence over other obligations and relationships.

A person's tolerance to alcohol can increase, requiring more than one or two drinks to feel the same way they did when they only drank occasionally. To help your partner through this challenging time, it is essential to recognize the warning signs and seek help from experts.

Alcoholism is a common issue that can lead to various negative consequences for one's life and relationships. It is crucial to communicate with your partner about the negative effects of excessive drinking on your life and the relationship.

Alcoholism may involve regular drinking and expressing a desire to get drunk quickly, often without realizing it. Alcoholism can also lead to rationalizations for excessive drinking, such as prioritizing drinking over spending time with family and friends.

Loss of memory and blackouts can be signs of alcoholism, as alcohol can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Personalities can change dramatically after a few drinks, and an alcoholic's tolerance can rise, resulting in severe dependence, permanent organ damage, and even death.

Despite relationship issues, alcohol use disorder can persist, with a persistent desire to drink despite negative consequences for personal relationships.

This may include withdrawing from social circles, spending more time alone at home, and hanging out with new people who support or discourage their drinking. It is essential to seek professional help if you or someone you care about shows signs of alcohol dependence.

Alcoholism disrupts personal and professional duties, making it difficult for individuals to perform their duties effectively. Alcohol-related illness or exhaustion can cause rifts in families, making it difficult for partners to care for children or maintain household responsibilities. Alcoholism can also cause irritability and inappropriate anger, which can lead to arguments and misunderstandings.

A partner may sneak around, consuming more alcohol than intended, and engaging in hazardous activities like driving, rock climbing, or boating. This can lead to an abnormally high rate of injuries and accidents. Alcoholism also reduces inhibitions, making everyday tasks more perilous.

Some individuals with alcoholism prefer less common drinks and are not picky about the type or brand of alcohol they consume. This change in behavior is highly suggestive of an alcohol abuse problem.

It is crucial to seek help immediately if a partner tries to cut back on drinking but experiences withdrawal symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, tremors, irritability, anxiety, hallucinations, or seizures.

In severe cases, withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable and often require a rehabilitation program. Alcoholism is usually characterised by excessive drinking, and it is essential to recognize when the situation has gotten out of hand. If your partner's drinking is starting to become a problem in their life, it may be grounds for an alcohol abuse diagnosis, which should be made by a licensed healthcare professional.

Content Summary: 

• Having a partner who is an alcoholic can be emotionally draining and difficult.
• Knowing the warning signs of alcohol abuse can help a person get the help they need if they struggle with alcoholism.
• In this blog, we'll talk about the warning signs that could indicate your partner has an alcohol problem, how to broach the subject with tact, and what you can do to help them through this challenging time.
• To combat alcoholism effectively, it is essential to recognise the warning signs and get help from experts.
• If you're worried that your significant other may be developing an alcohol use disorder, here are some signs to keep an eye out for.
• Emotionally healthy people may occasionally turn to alcohol.
• Signs of alcoholism include your partner drinking to the point of intoxication on a regular basis and expressing a desire to get drunk quickly.
• It's important to communicate with your partner about the negative effects of excessive drinking on your life and your relationship.
• If you've noticed that they've been drinking more and spending less time on hobbies or other interests, it may be time to have a conversation about what's important to them.
• Alcoholism is to blame when drinking is the primary focus of one's time.
• If you or someone you care about shows signs of alcohol dependence, such as prioritising drinking over spending time with family and friends, get help immediately.
• Share with your partner that you believe it is in your best interests to seek professional help.
• Blackouts and memory lapses after drinking could be signs of alcoholism in your partner.
• Anxiety and depression are just two mental health issues that can become more severe with heavy alcohol use.
• A person's mood can change dramatically after a few drinks, even if they don't appear intoxicated.
• People who normally control their emotions may become overly expressive and emotional after consuming alcohol.
• Abrupt changes in personality are cause for concern and may point to an alcohol abuse problem.
• These shifts in disposition should be taken seriously because they may indicate an underlying alcohol abuse problem and have a negative effect on interpersonal relationships.
• But as alcohol consumption rises, so does an alcoholic's tolerance.
• If your significant other can drink a lot and still seem fine, their body may be developing a tolerance.
• However, if your partner is building up a tolerance, they may consume more alcohol than they used to.
• Signs of alcohol use disorder include a persistent desire to drink despite negative consequences for personal relationships.
• As your relationship struggles, you may also observe your partner withdrawing from their social circle.
• Your partner may also be hanging out with new people who support or discourage their drinking.
• While making new friends isn't inherently indicative of AUD, you may find that your partner drinks more with their new friends, especially if those people are heavy drinkers themselves.
• Your partner may have trouble pitching in around the house if they are frequently absent due to alcohol-related illness or exhaustion.
• Their relationships may suffer as a result of their increased irritability and inappropriate anger.
• You can greatly improve their happiness and the quality of their relationships by encouraging them to get the help they need.
• If your partner is dishonest about how much or how often they are drinking, the problem will only worsen.
• They may not want to drink but find themselves unable to resist when in the company of alcoholics; they may promise to have only one or two drinks but end up having more.
• One of the most concerning indicators of alcoholism is drinking before engaging in potentially hazardous activities like driving, rock climbing, using machinery, or being at the helm of a boat.
• These people have an abnormally high rate of injuries and accidents, as they are more likely to engage in risky behaviour while intoxicated than they would be while sober.
• People's inhibitions are often lowered by alcohol, leading them to make unsafe and unhealthy choices.
• Someone with alcoholism won't drink the same way most social drinkers do, favouring less common drinks.
• They won't be picky about the booze they drink and will consume whatever is available.
• The underlying problem, an inability to manage or stop drinking, is the same regardless of the type or brand of alcohol they consume.
• This change in behaviour is highly suggestive of an alcohol abuse problem.
• Family and friends are aware of and able to respond to these warning signs can encourage the person to seek help and improve their chances of a full recovery.
• You should get help immediately if your partner tries to cut back on drinking but then experiences withdrawal symptoms, including headaches, nausea, tremors, irritability, anxiety, hallucinations or seizures.
• Seek immediate medical attention for hallucinations or seizures; even if withdrawal symptoms are mild, it's still a good idea to see a doctor.
• Maybe your mate has tried to cut back on drinking, or they just ran out of alcohol for a while.
• During those times, they might have experienced withdrawal symptoms like the ones listed below:In severe cases of AUD, these symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and are often treated in a rehabilitation program.
• Despite its obvious appearance, AUD is almost always characterised by excessive drinking.
• As a bystander, it may be hard to tell when the situation has gotten out of hand.
• In the end, if your partner's drinking is starting to become a problem in their life, this may be grounds for an AUD diagnosis, which is always something that a licensed healthcare professional should make.