Alcohol dependence can be devastating, but it can be challenging to identify the signs and get yourself help.

After all, research shows that in the UK, there are an estimated 586,780 dependent drinkers, but only 18% are receiving treatment.

This is partially down to the cuts made to support services, but mostly it is because many individuals simply don’t realise that they’re addicted to alcohol. They might think that their problem is minor and not an addiction, or they may be in denial and unwilling to acknowledge that they need treatment.

Many consumers use alcohol to relax and unwind, particularly in today’s hectic society, but it can be hard to tell the difference between enjoying a drink on occasion and being completely dependent on alcohol.

So, How Do You Know If You’re Addicted To Alcohol?

The difference between someone whose dependant on alcohol and someone who just likes a tipple is smaller than you think.

The NHS advises that no one should be drinking more than 14 units a week, with a unit being measured as 8g or 10ml of pure alcohol.

If you’re regularly drinking more than this, then you could be dependant on alcohol, but this isn’t the only factor you need to take into consideration.

You also need to think about how you’re drinking. If most of your alcohol consumption is social, then this could simply be the influence of your friends. However, if you find yourself drinking regularly alone, or using alcohol as a way to cope with stressful situations, then you might have a problem.

Consider if your alcohol intake is having a negative affect on any aspect of your life. If you’ve ended close relationships, lost a job or been removed from your home as a result of your alcohol consumption, then you need help to reduce your intake and get your life back on track.

Additionally, if you’ve been dishonest and deceitful to others because of alcohol, then this is a sign that you’re dependent on it and need to change your habits.

You should also review your mental health and see if this has been affected by the amount of alcohol you consume. Alcohol is a depressant, so it can cause you to become moody, depressed, anxious or disinterested in the activities you usually enjoy.

Alcohol can have a devastating negative affect on many people’s lives, so it’s important that you try to see the signs and acknowledge that you’ve got a problem. Once you’ve accepted that you have a problem with alcohol, you can move onto the important step of overcoming it.

What Options Are Out There To Help You Overcome Your Problem?

If you find that you are dependent on alcohol, then there are several ways you can deal with it and many different services that can support you.

Speak To Your Doctor

If you’re concerned that you might have an addiction to alcohol, then you should contact your GP as a first step. They’ll be able to discuss your issues with you and talk you through all the options you have available. They can also provide some short-term advice to help you while you wait to receive treatment.

Try Visiting Modern Rehab

When you think of rehab, you probably think of traditional rehab centres, but today’s modern rehab solutions can be tailored around your life. Help Me Stop is an innovative solution that allows you to get the treatment you need and adapt it around your current situation. Check out helpmestop.org.uk to find out more about this breakthrough in non-residential rehabilitation.

Join A Local Support Group

In your local area, there might be an alcohol support group where you and other individuals who are dependent on alcohol can talk and share stories together. Every burden is easier to carry when it’s shared, so consider joining a support group to get the help you need. These support groups could be organised by a charity or even your local council, but they’ll be completely confidential and allow you to share your experiences and get advice from people who understand what you’re going through.

Call A Support Hotline

If you find yourself in desperate need of urgent help, then you can call an alcohol support helpline and speak to an expert who can give you immediate advice. They will be understanding of your situation and be able to direct you to the support services you need.

Discovering that you have an alcohol problem can be a life-changing event, but there are now many ways you can get help and turn your life around. This guide should help you to understand your relationship with alcohol and find support.

Remember that everyone’s journey is different, so this advice is only general. We can’t give you exact answers and direct support, so speak to your GP and start your journey towards a life that’s not dominated by alcohol.