Identifying the Problem
If you are worried about someone’s drinking habits or questioning your own, it can be hard to tell whether it’s an occasional overindulgence or something more serious. Asking the right questions can help you assess the situation and determine if professional help is needed.
Questions to Consider About Alcohol Use
These simple yes-or-no questions can help you reflect or open a conversation about alcohol use:
- Is drinking causing relationship problems?
- Is alcohol consumption impacting work or professional life?
- Is alcohol being used to cope with a major life event or trauma?
- Is it difficult to cut back or stop drinking?
- Is drinking leading to risky behaviors or unsafe situations?
- Are drinking and its aftereffects causing missed daily activities?
If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” it may be time to seek help for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD).
You are Not Alone
Facing the challenge of alcohol use disorder (commonly known as alcoholism) can feel overwhelming, whether it’s you or someone you care about.
AUD is a common condition affecting approximately 10% of the U.S. population, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the United States: Age Groups and Demographic Characteristics | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) (NIAAA). Many people with AUD also experience co-occurring mental health conditions, making professional help even more important.
What to Do If You Recognize an Alcohol Problem
If you or someone you care about is struggling with alcohol use, approach the conversation with compassion and patience. Encourage them to seek help and offer support without judgement.
If you are the one struggling, know that asking for help is a powerful step toward recovery. Professional treatment can provide the medical care, therapies, and coping tools you need for lifelong recovery.
At EOSIS, we offer personalized treatment options for substance use disorders, including:
- Residential alcohol treatment for immersive, 24/7, supportive care.
- Outpatient alcohol programs for flexible care that works for your schedule.
- Intensive virtual care for support from the comfort of your home.
- Specialized programs to meet the unique needs of different populations and circumstances.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Get Help
Ignoring an alcohol problem can have both short-term safety risks as well as long-term health risks.
Each year, there are more than 4 million alcohol-related emergency room visits in the United States Alcohol-Related Emergencies and Deaths in the United States | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) (Source: NIAAA). Beyond these immediate risks, excessive drinking can lead to:
- Liver disease
- Heart disease
- Sleep disorders
- Depression and anxiety
- Increased risk of cancers
- STIs due to risky behavior
- Stomach bleeding
- Stroke
Take the First Step
Whether you are supporting a loved one or seeking care for yourself, recovery starts with a single step. Contact EOSIS to find an alcohol treatment program in Minnesota today.
