Here are some signs your partner has a drinking problem

Alcohol

Desmond White — It’s incredibly common for a loved one to notice a drinking problem before the person with the problem is fully aware of it. After all, you see the person on a daily basis, have known him or her for a long time, and are in the best position to notice changes in habits or behaviors that may signify the onset of a drinking problem. The person with the problem, though, may be in denial about it or may be unaware of how the drinking has increased over time. That’s why it's so important for you to take note if your partner is exhibiting some of these common signs of a drinking problem.

1. Increased tolerance for alcohol

Someone with a serious drinking problem will need more and more alcohol to feel the effects. For example, maybe one or two drinks used to be plenty for your partner and he or she is suddenly consuming three, four, or more in one sitting with the same effects as before. This is a sign that your partner’s body has had so much alcohol, it doesn’t respond to it much anymore. Building up such a high tolerance can lead to destructive drinking habits and eventual alcoholism.

2. Exhibiting withdrawal symptoms

People who are addicted to alcohol have a hard time going without it, both mentally and physically. Therefore, if your partner has headaches, tremors, insomnia, and other withdrawal symptoms during a time without alcohol, this is an indication that his or her body has become dependent on it. Your partner also may take to drinking in the morning to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

3. Neglecting responsibilities

As someone develops a dependence on alcohol, everything else suddenly seems to matter less. You may notice that your partner has not been doing the typical household duties, or has been bailing on the usual social activities he or she enjoys so there's more time available for drinking. Being chronically late to work or school, or missing it entirely, is another sign of a drinking problem.

4. Hiding alcohol or lying about consumption

If your partner is aware of his or her increasing use of alcohol and knows you wouldn’t approve, drinking may become a more secretive act. Pay attention, and if you catch your partner hiding alcohol in an unusual place in the home or obviously lying about how much he or she has had to drink, this is yet another sign of a drinking problem.

5. Drinking More than Planned

People who are aware they drink more than they would like to often make promises to themselves or others about how much they will drink at a specific occasion. If your partner makes these types of promises, only to go on to still drink in excess, this is a clear sign that the drinking problem has gotten out of control.

Having a conversation with your partner about the drinking problem

If you have noticed several of these signs, it’s time for you to talk with your partner about what you are seeing. In this conversation, it’s important to not come off as accusatory, but to make sure your love and concern are at the forefront. Tell your partner that you’re worried about how the drinking is affecting his or her life, and also mention some ways that the drinking problem is affecting you. After discussing and hopefully acknowledging the problem, you can work together to determine the best course of action for seeking treatment.



About the Author

Desmond White has a myriad of interests but has recently been compelled to write about addiction treatment, primarily for teens and young adults.