If your family has recently confronted you with their belief that you are an alcoholic, then realize that it means they care very deeply. While you may feel like they are trying to butt into your personal space, understand that they may be right. Use these four ideas to confirm if you have a problem with alcohol.
Lose a Job
While only about one in 12 full-time workers in the United States have a self-reported substance abuse problem, while one in six unemployed workers admits to having an alcohol or drug problem. The lack of money from not being able to get and hold a job does not seem to stop people from drinking, however, despite the lower income. People at all career levels have lost jobs when they drank on the job or when they failed to show up to work because they were drunk. Getting help often shows an employer that you are ready to take on responsibility again.
Withdraw From Family
People who are alcoholics often withdraw from family activities where alcohol is not allowed. They may have once enjoyed going to watch their children play baseball or perform in a ballet, but once alcohol becomes the primary focus of their lives, they start skipping these once enjoyable events. Adults may also find that they spend less time with extended family members who do not drink or drink only socially. Children are amazingly forgiving when an adult admits they have a problem. Getting help for alcohol puts you back in the game of being a great parent.
Commit Domestic Violence
Over 92 percent of domestic violence occurs when one or both people are drunk. Over 61 percent of people found guilty of domestic violence have an alcohol or substance abuse problem. Over 11 percent of all homicides involve domestic abuse. If your family has suggested that you have an alcohol problem, then consider what you may be doing to those around you. Getting help can help restore broken relationships quickly.
Arrested for DUI/DWI
If you have been arrested for driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated, realize that you may have a problem. Alcohol-related accidents cost more than $44 billion in the United States annually. Someone dies in an alcohol-related death every 51 minutes. A lawyer, like Thomas A. Corletta, may be able to help you settle the ticket without doing too much damage to your driving record. Seeking help for alcohol may help convince a judge that you are ready to reform.
Just because your family has confronted you with the fact that you may be an alcoholic, you are not a loser. If you discover that you need help, then seek it immediately.
