About 14.1 million adults are diagnosed with alcohol use disorder in the US. The exact number may be even higher, since many people quietly suffer from alcohol use disorder.

Knowing about the alcohol use disorder can enable you to spot and help someone who may be at risk. Here are the common signs.

Gradually drinking more and more, and for longer

Alcoholics keep increasing the amounts of alcohol they drink just to experience the same desired effects. They may find that lesser quantities do not have the same effect they did in the past. Alcoholics not only drink more than previous amounts but also for a longer time than intended. This is usually the result of strong cravings and increased tolerance.

Failing to reduce or stop

People with alcohol use disorder may repeatedly try to reduce the amount they drink or stop drinking completely, but they often fail to do so, due to physical dependence and addiction. Both physical dependence and psychological addiction can be effectively and safely treated at an alcohol and drug rehab center.

Spending most of the time drinking or recovering from its effects

Alcoholics often spend great amounts of time drinking, procuring alcohol or recovering from the effects of drinking. For example, they may spend the entire day home feeling sick because of the previous evening’s drinking and then again resume drinking during the late afternoon or evening.

Strong cravings

Experiencing strong physical and/or psychological cravings to drink is common for someone with alcohol abuse disorder. These cravings usually lead to a preoccupation with drinking.

Drinking interferes with personal and professional life

An alcoholic may go through problems with their home and work life. These problems are usually brought about by alcohol abuse. For example, alcohol use may lead to arguments and reduced productivity at work or domestic abuse at home.

Continuing to drink despite problems

An alcoholic often continues to drink despite realizing that drinking is leading to problems with loved ones, coworkers or even employers. Strained relationships and divorce are common with alcoholics.

Giving up all else

An alcoholic may give up other important activities and interests to focus on drinking. For instance, a person who led an active lifestyle may stop being active as they struggle to recover from hangovers.

Getting into dangerous situations

Alcohol affects decision making. And hence, the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors increases. For example, drunk driving or unprotected sex.

Continuing to drink despite health problems

An alcoholic would keep drinking in spite of worsening health.

If you are looking for alcohol treatment or medical drug detox centers, check out one of the leading drug and alcohol rehab centers in San Diego, call Pacific Bay Recovery at 858-263-9700 right away and begin the path towards healing and taking charge of your life again.